18-year-old French swimmer Raphael Fente Damers met the Olympic standard at the 2024 French Championships by finishing second in the 100-meter freestyle. Upon seeing his time, Raphael was so overjoyed that he struck the water forcefully, dislocating his shoulder. Now, his participation in the Paris Olympic Games is in question.
Raphael was born in North America to a family of Spaniards and French, and he began swimming at the age of 5 in Anchorage, Alaska. He trains in Spain and competes for the Royal Spanish Swimming Federation, but he will represent France at the Olympics. Despite his young age, he has already won numerous awards and set national records.
Following his successful performance at the French Championships and qualification for the Olympic Games, Raphael was hospitalized. He is currently undergoing rehabilitation, and his participation in the Olympics depends on the speed of his recovery.
The Olympic Games will begin on July 26, with swimming competitions starting the following day.
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