Slovakian swimmer Tamara Potocka, 21, collapsed following the women’s 200-metre individual medley event at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The incident occurred at La Defense Arena in Nanterre, Paris, during the morning session.
Potocka was carried away from the pool on a stretcher after collapsing upon exiting the water. A Slovakian team official informed the PA news agency that Potocka had suffered an asthma attack after her race.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing Potocka with an oxygen mask as she was taken away for further examination. She was subsequently transported to a hospital for additional monitoring.
The venue’s media manager confirmed to Reuters that Potocka was conscious following the incident.
Potocka had finished seventh in the third heat of the event with a time of two minutes 14.20 seconds, which was not fast enough to advance her to the semi-finals. This performance marked the end of her competition at the Paris Olympics.
The Paris 2024 Games represent Potocka’s Olympic debut. Prior to this, she was a four-time finalist at the 2024 European Championships.
The incident has drawn attention to the intense physical demands of Olympic competition and the health challenges athletes may face. Officials are expected to provide updates on Potocka’s condition as they become available.
