Mystery Athlete Unmasked: The Secretive Shot Putter Making Waves at the Paris Olympics

With purple and green hair, gold tooth grills, and bedazzled fingernails showcasing Team USA colors and the letters H-U-L-K, Raven Saunders stands out in the world of athletics.

PARIS, France — Who was that masked competitor?

It was none other than Raven Saunders, the theatrical American shot putter known for their unique style and use of they/them pronouns. At the Olympic qualifier on Thursday, Saunders wore a full-faced black mask and gold-hued sunglasses. Their hair, dyed neon green on one side and purple on the other, added to the spectacle. Long, bedazzled fingernails on their left hand and gold grills completed the look.

For Saunders, this persona is transformative, embodying “The Hulk” to tap into superhero strength when competing. “I’m in full form,” Saunders said. “I had to remind the people, I am who I am.”

This dynamic identity extends beyond the aesthetic. It’s a threat to add another medal to the silver they earned in Tokyo and serves as a powerful statement on mental health and resilience. Saunders is a role model, demonstrating that the Olympics transcend sports.

“It is one way to make me stand out and encourage other women,” Saunders noted. “Younger athletes are pushing their own styles.”

Despite scratching their first throw, Saunders secured a spot in the final with a 17.93-meter second throw and an 18.62-meter final attempt. Their performances are as anticipated as their outfits. “I have something even better,” they hinted about their future attire.

At the Tokyo medals ceremony, Saunders made headlines for crossing their arms to form an “X,” symbolizing “the intersection where all oppressed people meet.”

Charleston, South Carolina native Saunders shone in collegiate athletics, winning NCAA shot put titles at Southern Illinois and Ole Miss in 2015 and 2016. Yet they missed the 2023 World Championships due to an 18-month suspension for three missed drug tests within a year.

That period was particularly dark for Saunders, who also faced their mother’s unexpected death and hip surgery after the Tokyo Games. Contemplating leaving the sport, Saunders ultimately persevered.

“No matter how dark it gets, there will be light,” Saunders said. “I dragged myself out of bed and to the weight room, tears in my eyes, begging, ‘When is this going to be over?’ I just kept fighting.” Their resilience and persistence paid off, illustrating the power of faith and trust.

Open about their mental-health struggles, Saunders wants their story to inspire others. “If I made this team, it was for the people,” they said. “For those who reminded me of who I was when I was down, when I was out, when I was suspended.”