US Paralympians barred from Paris closing ceremonies over teammate dispute

Four U.S. swimmers faced disciplinary action after making disparaging comments on social media regarding teammate Christie Raleigh Crossley, who has a neurological disorder classified as S9. The incident occurred during the Paralympic Games in Paris, where Raleigh Crossley had just set a world record in the 50-meter freestyle. The comments, which questioned her disability, violated the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee's standards for athlete conduct. Jessica Long, Gia Pergolini, Julia Gaffney, and Anastasia Pagonis were specifically noted for their remarks, which included support for a Spanish swimmer who mocked Raleigh Crossley’s classification. Raleigh Crossley expressed her devastation over the situation, feeling that her achievements were overshadowed by accusations of cheating. She highlighted the emotional toll of being labeled a fraud, especially after her significant accomplishment. The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee confirmed that sanctions were imposed on the athletes involved, emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity and respect within Team USA. Long, who has previously criticized cheating in Paralympic swimming, defended her stance by calling for stricter enforcement of rules against intentional misrepresentation. She expressed a desire for the Paralympic movement to uphold its integrity and ensure fair competition. The incident has sparked discussions about the treatment of athletes with disabilities and the responsibilities of competitors to support one another. The penalties for the swimmers could extend beyond barring them from the closing ceremonies, potentially leading to suspensions and loss of stipends. This situation serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by athletes in maintaining a supportive and respectful environment, particularly in a competitive setting like the Paralympics.