Paris 2024: Has Windsurfing gone too far?

Marseille, France (August 3, 2024) – After dominating the 14-race Opening Series of the Women’s Windsurfer event, Great Britain’s Emma Wilson is not a fan of the new knock-out format to award medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

While seeking to heighten excitement for the International Olympic Committee, Wilson accused sailing officials of putting athletes’ mental health at risk after falling foul in the new Medal Series and having to settle for a bronze medal today.

Wilson’s form at the Olympic regatta – she won eight of the 14 qualifying races – meant she advanced straight to the three-racer final while the other competitors in the top ten advanced through Quarter-Final and/or Semi-Final stages. While they came into the final race hot, she was cold.

“I think it’s obvious I’m at a disadvantage, and I think they [sailing officials] should think about it, and think about people’s mental health as well,” said Wilson.

At last year’s World Championships in Lanzarote, Wilson won 15 of the 20 opening races, but finished with silver in the final.

“It’s not OK to put people in this position every time. I had a 60-point lead at the World Championships and a 30-point lead here. I don’t know how many times you can come back. I think I’m done with the sport.”

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Event details – Results – Notice Board

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Final Results:
1. Marta Maggetti (ITA)
2. Sharon Kantor (ISR)
3. Emma Wilson (GBR)
13. Mariana Aguilar Chavez Peon (MEX)
22. Dominique Stater (USA)

Event details – Results – Notice Board

Source: World Sailing