Swimming Australia Fires Coach Over Controversial Remarks at Paris Olympics

Swimming Australia has dismissed coach Michael Palfrey for comments made during the Paris Olympics. Palfrey expressed hope for a South Korean athlete to win over Australian swimmers in a key event, leading to his termination for breaching his employment agreement and tarnishing the organization's reputation.

Swimming Australia has terminated the employment of coach Michael Palfrey following his controversial comments during the Paris Olympics. Palfrey had stated his hope that South Korea's Kim Woo-min would surpass Australian contenders in the men's 400-meter freestyle, which drew significant backlash.

During an interview with South Korean television, Palfrey said, 'I really hope he can win, but ultimately I really hope he swims well,' followed by 'Go Korea'. This remark came during an event featuring Australian swimmers Sam Short and Elijah Winnington.

In a statement on Friday, Swimming Australia explained the termination, citing a breach of Palfrey's employment agreement and noting that he had brought himself and the organization into disrepute while harming its interests. Palfrey will retain his coaching accreditation despite his exit. The incident underscores directives that required Australian coaches to sever ties with non-Australian swimmers four months prior to the Olympics.

In the event itself, Germany's Lukas Märtens clinched the gold medal, with Elijah Winnington taking silver and Kim securing a bronze.

Commenting on the affair, Australia's head swim coach Rohan Taylor condemned Palfrey's remarks as 'un-Australian' and expressed profound disappointment. Initially, there were discussions about sending Palfrey home, but he was ultimately allowed to remain in Paris for the duration of the Games.

(With inputs from agencies.)