Australian Olympic Swim Coach Faces Sanction for Supporting Rival South Korean Swimmer
July 26, 2024Australian Olympic swim coach Michael Palfrey faces backlash and potential sanction for expressing support for South Korean swimmer Kim Woo-min over Australian swimmers at the Paris Games.
Palfrey's actions have caused disruption within the typically unified and traditional Australian swim team.
Swimming Australia was surprised by Palfrey's public support for Kim and his coaching involvement with non-Australian swimmers.
Swimming Australia was unaware of Palfrey's remarks to South Korean journalists, leading to discussions with head coach Rohan Taylor.
Taylor plans to address the issue of Australian coaches working with foreign swimmers post-Paris Games.
Palfrey's controversial behavior resulted in Swimming Australia removing him from his coaching position.
Head coach Rohan Taylor will decide on disciplinary measures against Palfrey with the support of the Australian team hierarchy.
Concerns arose about conflicts of interest as Palfrey coached Kim and had connections with other South Korean swimmers.
Palfrey aims for Kim's success and hopes to see world records broken, emphasizing the need for Kim to compete at his best in the Olympics.
The men's 400m freestyle event, featuring Kim Woo-min and Australian swimmers, is scheduled as the first medal event in Paris.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Jul 25, 2024
‘Un-Australian’: Australia swimming coach in hot water for backing Korean rivalThe Sydney Morning Herald • Jul 24, 2024
‘I hope he wins’: Australian swimming coach admits to mentoring world champion rivalThe Sydney Morning Herald • Jul 25, 2024
Palfrey backed a rival swimmer. Now he must pack up his goggles and goThe Sydney Morning Herald • Jul 25, 2024
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