Raven Saunders, the American shot putter who made headlines at the Tokyo Olympics with a silver medal, has once again captured attention with a dramatic performance, securing a spot in the Olympic final. Saunders, who identifies with the pronouns they and them, is renowned not just for their athletic prowess but also for their bold and unique style.
During the qualifiers on Thursday, Saunders sported a full-faced black mask, gold-hued sunglasses, and neon green and purple hair. Their look was completed with gold grills, bedazzled fingernails in Team USA colors, and the letters H-U-L-K, a nod to their alter ego, "The Hulk," which Saunders embodies when competing.
“This is me in full form,” Saunders said, emphasizing their persona. “I had to remind people, I am who I am.”
Saunders is determined to add another medal to their collection while continuing their role as a mental health advocate and a symbol of empowerment. They believe their persona helps younger athletes embrace their individuality and push boundaries.
After an initial scratch, Saunders secured their place in the final with throws of 17.93 meters and 18.62 meters. True to their theatrical nature, Saunders teased an even more exciting outfit for the final, promising, “I have something even better.”
Saunders first garnered widespread attention at the Tokyo Olympics, where they crossed their arms in an "X" during the medal ceremony, a symbol they said represented “the intersection of where all people who are oppressed meet.”
The 28-year-old from Charleston, South Carolina, has an impressive athletic background, winning NCAA shot put titles at both Southern Illinois and Ole Miss in 2015 and 2016. However, Saunders faced a challenging period after the Tokyo Games, including a suspension from the 2023 World Championships due to missed drug tests and the unexpected death of their mother.
Reflecting on those struggles, Saunders said, “No matter how dark it gets, no matter how tough — there will be light.” They spoke candidly about the mental health challenges they faced, and their journey back to the sport serves as an inspiration.
“If I made this team, when I made this team, it was for the people,” Saunders said, expressing gratitude to those who supported them during their darkest times. Now, as they prepare for the final, Saunders stands as a reminder that resilience and self-expression can coexist powerfully in the world of sports.
