Raven Saunders Aims for Olympic Glory Amid Personal Resurgence

Raven Saunders, the standout shot putter known for their vibrant 'Hulk' regalia, is eyeing another Olympic medal. Both mentally and physically stronger, Saunders returns to the competition after overcoming personal and professional setbacks. They will compete in the finals on Friday night, with new outfit and renewed determination.

Raven Saunders has a chance to add another hue — either gold, silver, or bronze — to their already colorful repertoire.

The standout shot putter, known for their "Hulk" regalia which includes a full face mask and neon green and purple dyed hair, has qualified for the Olympic finals and will compete Friday night in the medal round.

Saunders, who uses the pronouns they and them, has hinted at a new outfit for the final. After winning a silver medal in Tokyo three years ago, they are eager to add another medal to their collection.

The 28-year-old Charleston, South Carolina native missed the 2023 world championships after being suspended for 18 months due to three "whereabouts failures" related to missed drug tests. This period was also marked by personal tragedy, as Saunders' mother passed away unexpectedly shortly after the Tokyo Games.

"I am in a great headspace," Saunders stated. "With everything that I have been through, there is no reason for me not to be in a great headspace." Saunders' U.S. teammate Jaida Ross will also compete in the final, along with Canada's Sarah Mitton, who had the top throw in qualifying. American Chase Jackson, the 2022 and 2023 world champion, did not qualify for the final.

(With inputs from agencies.)