Convicted Child Rapist Steven Van De Velde Breaks Down in First Interview, Says He Was Booed During Olympics

Volleyball player and convicted child rapist Steven Van de Velde broke down in tears during his first interview since his controversial inclusion in the 2024 Olympics. The Netherlands athlete was jailed in 2016 for the sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl when he was 19.

RELATED STORIES: Algerian Boxer Imane Khelif Files Legal Complaint For ‘Aggravated Online Harassment’ After Being Mislabeled A Man In Paris Olympics Gender Dispute; Cites Misogyny, Sexism, And Racism

Van de Velde explained that he was booed by the crowd while competing in the games, and he confessed that the backlash made him want to quit. During the interview, he took accountability for the crime and said that the controversy has hurt his wife and child since they have nothing to do with his actions : “I did something wrong, 10 years ago. I have to accept that. But, hurting people around me, my wife, my child… that just goes too far for me,” the athlete stated. According to TMZ , Van de Velde decided to stay in the competition, and he and his playing partner, Matthew Immers, managed to reach round 16 before Brazil eliminated them.

He acknowledged the criticism directed at him, noting that he understood where it was coming from. Additionally, he said he is not the same person he was at 19, claiming that he has changed. The interview marked the first time Van de Velde publicly addressed the controversy surrounding his participation in the Olympics.

RELATED STORIES: Simone Biles’ Estranged Birth Mom Seeks Forgiveness After Abandonment

His inclusion in the games sparked controversy due to his criminal record and the question of whether he should’ve been allowed to compete.

The NOC said in a statement to the BBC that the decision to keep Van de Velde in the games was based on his commitment to seek counseling and extensive background checks.

“Van de Velde has fully engaged with all requirements and has met all the stringent risk assessment thresholds, checks and due diligence. Experts have stated that there is no risk of recidivism. Van de Velde has consistently remained transparent about the case which he refers to as the most significant misstep of his life. He deeply regrets the consequences of his actions for those involved.”