By Zim Sport Live Writer
International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Kirsty Coventry has moved to clarify comments attributed to her regarding prize money for Olympic athletes after portions of an interview sparked widespread debate on social media.
The Zimbabwean swimming legend released a statement explaining that her remarks had been taken out of context during an interview conducted while she was visiting New Zealand.
Coventry said confusion arose after she failed to repeat the phrase “prize money” while answering a follow-up question on camera.
“Some of you might have seen social media posts about an interview I gave during my visit to New Zealand when I had a conversation with a journalist about paying prize money to athletes,” Coventry said.
“When I was asked about it on camera, I did not repeat the words prize money — my mistake, lesson learnt.”
Focus on Supporting More Athletes
The seven-time Olympic medalist stressed that her position has always been centred on finding ways to support a broader number of athletes rather than limiting financial rewards to only a select few medal winners.
“Yes, I have always said that I don’t believe in paying athletes prize money at the Olympic Games, as this would benefit only a very small number of athletes,” Coventry explained.
“I do believe our role as the IOC is to find ways to directly support a large number of athletes on their journey to becoming Olympians, at the Olympics and as they transition into life after sport.”
Her clarification comes at a time when global debate continues around athlete compensation and financial support structures within Olympic sport.
Coventry Reaffirms Commitment to Athletes
Coventry, Africa’s most decorated Olympian, also reiterated her commitment to athlete welfare, drawing from her own experiences as a former elite competitor.
“As a former athlete, I am absolutely committed to finding more ways to directly support athletes on their journey.”
The former Zimbabwe sports minister made history earlier this year after becoming the first African and first woman to lead the IOC, a landmark achievement that has been widely celebrated across the continent.
Coventry won seven Olympic medals during her legendary swimming career, including two gold medals, and remains one of Zimbabwe’s greatest sporting icons.