Excellence Over Victory: Olympic Legend Anita DeFrantz on Women, Rowing, and the True Spirit of the Games

In this compelling interview with The Atlantic's Gisela Salim-Peyer, Olympic bronze medalist and IOC executive Anita DeFrantz shares her remarkable journey from law student to Olympic rower to becoming one of the most influential voices in international sports. DeFrantz offers unique insights into why the Olympics captivate audiences who typically don't follow sports, particularly women, and discusses the fundamental differences between Olympic athletics and professional sports.

Drawing from her experiences as both an athlete and administrator, she reveals how the Olympic movement has evolved in its pursuit of gender equality, from her early days as one of only five women in the IOC to achieving 50-50 gender representation in the Paris 2024 Games. DeFrantz shares powerful personal stories, from her unexpected introduction to rowing to winning an Olympic medal, and explains how these experiences shaped her mission to transform sports leadership.

Learn about the unique values that set the Olympics apart from other sporting events, the importance of excellence over mere victory, and how the Games continue to unite athletes and audiences worldwide. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or simply curious about the Olympic movement, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on athletics, leadership, and the ongoing journey toward true equality in sports.

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