The Dutch volleyball player was booed by the stands. Who is Steven Van de Velde?

The beach volleyball competition continued today as part of the 2024 Olympic Games. Several matches were to take place on the day, and the first of them was the match between the Netherlands and Italy.

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When the Dutch athletes took to the court, they were welcomed by the stands. But after the names of the athletes were announced, there was shouting and disapproval in the stands.

The Dutchman Steven Van de Velde was the one to blame. He was sentenced to four years in prison in 2016 for raping a 12-year-old girl in the UK.

He served part of his prison term in the UK before being transferred to the Netherlands. He was released in 2017 and took up volleyball again. After receiving support from the national Olympic committee, he went to the Games in Paris.

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Van de Velde's participation in the Olympics angered many.

The CEO of the U.S. Center for Safe Sport, Ju'Riese Colon, said she was “deeply concerned that anyone convicted of sexual abuse of a minor could participate” in the Olympics.

“With teams from around the world convening in Paris, many of which include minor athletes, this sends a dangerous message that medals and money mean more than their safety.”

Sarah Alaoui, founder of Dutch non-governmental organization The Safe Space Club, said she was deeply disappointed with the support the national volleyball association had given to the player.

“There is a significant difference between receiving a second chance and being selected to represent your country at the Olympics.

There is a stark contrast between resuming one's work and becoming an internationally celebrated figure whose past transgressions are conveniently forgotten and downplayed.”

It should be noted that the Dutch athletes lost to the Italians with a total score of 1-2.