British Swimmer Adam Peaty Tests Positive for COVID-19 at Paris Olympics

NANTERRE, France — British Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty, a three-time gold medalist, has tested positive for COVID-19 just a day after competing in the 100-meter breaststroke final at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. The announcement from Team Great Britain came on Monday afternoon, revealing that Peaty's symptoms worsened after the final, prompting a COVID test early that morning. The team confirmed that Peaty had been experiencing symptoms prior to the competition and had mingled closely with other athletes, including American swimmer Nic Fink. Despite the positive test, Peaty did not violate any COVID protocols, as the Paris Olympics currently have no specific health rules regarding the virus. This marks a significant shift from the stringent measures enforced during the Tokyo 2021 and Beijing 2022 Games. Team officials have not clarified why Peaty was not tested or isolated sooner, and NPR has reached out for further information but has yet to receive a response. Peaty acknowledged the challenges he faced leading up to the race, stating, "We’ve been dealt a few hands, especially the last few days, that affected my hundred percent." Meanwhile, Team Great Britain is working with medical staff to implement necessary precautions following the positive test. As of now, Fink, who interacted with Peaty, is not in isolation, and it remains unclear whether he has undergone testing for COVID-19.