Steven van de Velde, the Dutch beach volleyball player convicted of raping a child a decade ago, faced boos from the crowd during the Netherlands’ first match at the Paris Olympics. Despite criticism, the International Olympic Committee defended his participation, citing his rehabilitation. Van de Velde and his partner, Matthew Immers, were defeated by the Italian duo Alex Ranghieri and Adrian Carambula. The Dutch National Olympic Committee’s decision to select him sparked outrage, with French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera expressing shock at his inclusion in the Games.
Paris Olympics: Dutch player convicted of rape booed amid uproar over participation
