Joe McConnell
Volleyball star Steven van de Velde — a convicted child rapist — broke down in tears during his first interview since his controversial inclusion in this month’s Olympics… and admitted he almost quit because of the reaction he received.
The 30-year-old Dutch athlete, jailed in 2016 for raping a 12-year-old girl when he was 19, had managed to avoid the media during his stay in Paris… but on Tuesday he stepped up to the microphones and got emotional.
He explained to reporters that the constant jeers and boos he received while competing in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower at the Games had affected him… and that there were times when he wanted to retire.
“I did something wrong, 10 years ago,” said Van de Velde, who is now married. “I have to accept that. But hurting people around me, whether it’s [playing partner] Matthew [Immers]my wife, my son… this is too much for me.”
“That was definitely a moment where I thought, ‘Is it worth it?’”
Van de Velde remained in the race… and he and Matthew Immerges They reached the round of 16, before being eliminated from the tournament by losing to Brazil.
Van de Velde went on to say that he understood all the criticism… although he was adamant that he was a changed man who had learned from his past.
“I am no longer the person I was 10 years ago,” he said.
