Luana Alonso, a 21-year-old swimmer from Paraguay, has publicly addressed her unexpected exit from the upcoming 2024 Olympics, claiming that her departure was misunderstood. Alonso retired after not qualifying for the 100m butterfly semi-finals and was reportedly removed from the Athletes’ Village due to allegations of “inappropriate” behavior, including not wearing official Paraguayan gear and being a distraction to her teammates.
The Paraguayan Olympic Committee stated that her presence created an “inappropriate atmosphere,” prompting them to act. In response, Alonso fiercely defended herself in a recent post, clarifying that her departure was voluntary and fueled by a desire to prioritize her own well-being. She criticized the committee for their treatment of her, emphasizing, “If I had been treated with basic respect, maybe I wouldn’t have stepped away.”
Since her departure from competitive swimming, Alonso has found financial success through her content on OnlyFans, revealing a shift in her career focus. She indicated that while she is uncertain about returning to swimming, she remains firm in her stance to speak up against disrespect.
Alonso’s story reflects the struggles many athletes face in balancing their personal integrity with the expectations of sports organizations. It is a hopeful reminder that young athletes can forge their own paths and find success beyond traditional accolades.