Brittney Griner Earns Third Gold After Legal Troubles in Russia

PARIS — Brittney Griner celebrated her third Olympic gold medal on Sunday, a victory that she described as particularly meaningful following her harrowing ten-month imprisonment in Russia. Overwhelmed with emotion, Griner expressed gratitude for her country’s efforts in securing her release, stating, “My country fought for me to get back, and I was able to bring home gold for my country.” This triumph marked a significant milestone in her journey, as she reflected on the challenges she faced during her captivity. The gold medal ceremony, held at Bercy Arena, was a poignant moment for Griner, who fought back tears as the American flag was raised and "The Star-Spangled Banner" played. Having previously won gold in Rio de Janeiro in 2016 and Tokyo in 2021, this victory resonated differently for her. “I didn’t think I would be here,” she admitted, emphasizing the importance of representing her country after such a difficult ordeal. Griner’s return to international competition included her first overseas trip since her release, which brought back memories of her time in a Russian prison. She described her initial train ride in France as “a little rough,” but credited her teammates and family for providing essential support throughout her journey. In the final match against France, Griner contributed four points and two rebounds, solidifying her role in Team USA’s narrow 67-66 victory. As she continues to process her experiences, Griner remains focused on her recovery, aided by counseling and therapy, while cherishing the special significance of this gold medal.