French teenage swimmer Rafael Fente-Damers was rushed to the hospital after dislocating his shoulder while celebrating his qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
His achievement came after securing a spot on the French swimming team by finishing second in the 100m freestyle final at the French Olympic trials. Fente-Damers set a personal best of 48.14sec, surpassing the French qualifying standard by 0.2sec.
However, during his celebratory gesture of slapping the water with his left arm, the 18-year-old experienced sudden pain. He signaled for immediate assistance, grabbing his injured shoulder.
Reports indicate he suffered a dislocated shoulder. Despite the injury, Fente-Damers appeared on the podium in a sling alongside his fellow athletes.
He later went to the hospital for further checks. The 2024 Paris Olympic Games will feature 32 sports across 35 venues in France and its territories, with swimming events commencing on July 27, following the opening on July 26.
