Masked Nonbinary U.S. Olympic Shot Putter Raven Saunders Makes A Splash At Paris Olympics With Unique Fashion Choices

by Baila Eve ZismanAugust 9, 2024, 3:57 pmNews >

American shot put star Raven Saunders has again captured the sporting world’s attention with their bold and expressive fashion choices in the shot put semifinals at the Paris Olympics.

Saunders, nonbinary, who is known for their unapologetic style, made a statement when they donned a black face mask and a pair of colorful visor sunglasses. At the same time, they competed, further demonstrating their reputation as an athlete who is not afraid to stand out and inspire others.

After they secured their spot in the finals, Saunders explained their fashion choice to reporters: “I feel special trying to get the world more in tune and trying to give us and bring us more in our event. It is one way to make me stand out, and I want to encourage other women—a lot of younger athletes are coming through, and they really push their own styles.”

They added, “It limits the showcase that we are shot putters, but we have our own style; we can do things as big and bright as any sprinter, any jumper, whoever. So we deserve that spotlight as well.”

This is not the first time Saunders has turned heads with their style at a competition. Their Instagram account showcases a variety of masks, such as ones that mimic the smiles of D.C. Comics characters and the Hulk’s grimace – a nod to their own “Hulk” nickname.

The American declared, “With everything that I have been through, there is no point for me to not to be in a great headspace.”

She expressed, “When I made this team, it was for those people who reminded me who I was when I was down, when I was out, after I lost my mom, after a hip surgery – this was for them. Because they were the ones, when I felt like I wanted to quit, those people encouraged me to keep going, keep pushing and even make it to this moment.”