Olympic athletes criticize conditions at 2024 Paris Olympic Village

Athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics criticize poor village conditions, with some moving to hotels.

Olympic athletes have expressed dissatisfaction with the accommodations at the 2024 Paris Games, leading some to leave the village. USA tennis star Coco Gauff revealed her team moved to a hotel due to poor conditions. Gauff shared a TikTok video showing the inadequate facilities, including shared bathrooms and cardboard beds, in the $1.6 billion village. “It was my decision to fire him for erratic behavior,” said Gauff, highlighting the lack of proper amenities.

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US gymnast Frederick Richard shipped his own mattress to Paris, stating, "Everyone's complaining about beds and stuff." Athletes have also criticized the 60% vegan food options, which complicate diets for those who rely on meat for peak performance. The village faced a food shortage after the opening ceremony, with eggs and grilled meats being rationed.

Australia’s swimmer Ariarne Titmus, who sought a world record in the 400m freestyle, blamed the conditions for her performance. "Living in the Olympic Village makes it hard to perform," Titmus admitted. Retired swimmer James Magnussen criticized the eco-friendly focus, saying it hurt performance quality. “The lack of world records boils down to this whole eco-friendly, carbon footprint, vegan-first mentality,” he said.

Athletes must also use public transport to events, which adds to the stress. Six South Korean swimmers moved to a hotel near their venue to avoid long, hot commutes. KSF president Chong Chang-hoon said the buses lacked air-conditioning, making it uncomfortable for athletes. As the Games progress, more athletes are likely to leave the village to improve their chances of success.