The question of the participation of Russian athletes in the Paris Olympics in recent months has become more serious than ever. Even the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, spoke out on the matter. The Head of State noted that each athlete must decide for himself whether he will attend the Games in a neutral state or not.
In an exclusive interview with Sovetsky Sport, two-time Olympic swimming champion Evgeny Rylov explained his position on participation in the Olympic Games, talked about the president’s statement, and also talked about where he gets his motivation during the period of international isolation.
— A few days ago, Vladimir Putin said at the Far East Forum that athletes should decide for themselves whether or not to go to the Olympic Games. How would you rate his words? Will you go to the Olympics if they give you the go-ahead?“I think this is the most honest answer.” Vladimir Vladimirovich gives each person a choice. For athletes, the Olympic Games are the meaning of life. Highest level. But so far I do not agree with the IOC conditions. I really don’t want to go to Paris, especially if I have to sign a declaration. If they remove the extra points, it will somehow be possible to do without the flag, the symbols and the anthem, but I would like to oppose this, because it is becoming an unpleasant habit. My position now is that I have no intention of going anywhere. Let’s see what happens next, because the position changes every month. Therefore, I will not say anything radical and precise now.
Putin believes Russian athletes should make their own decision about participating in the 2024 Olympics
— Some time ago FINA proposed conditions for the admission of Russian athletes. How would you evaluate them? Can you call this set of requirements offensive to Russian athletes? — So far, in principle, bad events are taking place for Russia and our athletes, so in any case, these are unpleasant conditions. Until now no one has prohibited us from acting in them. Therefore, it is everyone’s business. I guess I’m personally against going. Because it’s not fair that team sports don’t travel. The water polo guys or synchronized swimmers will tell you to go, an opportunity has arisen, why not. But this is a question of sporting respect: as they respect us, we also respect them. As for the conditions, they are objectively very difficult. So far only a few units fit under them. Additionally, you must qualify for the Russian and Belarusian competitions.
They will let you in through the back door. Russian swimmers were subjected to humiliating conditions
— Will you participate in them, taking into account that you will have to sign several declarations?— I am not going to sign any statement, this is my personal position on this issue. In principle, not many athletes are classified under these conditions. It is unlikely that many Russians will be allowed entry.
RIA Novosti
—How would you rate your current form? What is your next start?— 50% of the form. The first start will be the championship of the Siberian Federal District from October 30 to November 2. Now we have to prepare, we will get fit and train. I will be delighted to see everyone who can come in the stands. The support now, and always, is very appreciated.
RIA Novosti
— Is it difficult to find motivation when There is Does only Russian start? Is there some type of crisis regarding this indicator?– We have motivation: a stopwatch. This is easier for us. It’s different in other sports. You can always say that you are faster. Motivation is always a matter of seconds.
