Raven Saunders is an American athlete specializing in shot put and discus throw events. They won a silver medal in shot put at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Saunders is also known by the nickname “Hulk,” which is connected to the mask they wear. Saunders’ powerful performances and unique persona have made them a standout figure in the world of athletics.
Let’s delve into the reason behind Raven Saunders’ distinctive mask at the Olympics.
Why does Raven Saunders wear a mask during competition?
Raven Saunders began wearing a mask during the Tokyo Olympics, following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Initially, Saunders used the mask for protection against the virus. However, they soon realized the benefits of wearing it regularly. As mask-wearing was mandatory at the games, Saunders opted for a Hulk mask, which eventually became their signature look and earned them the nickname “Hulk.”
In 2021, Saunders told Yahoo Sports that they found the mask motivating. Saunders explained, “I like to be my biggest supporter — I really can’t repeat it because y’all are going to have to bleep out most of the things I say anyway, but pretty much to sum it up I’m telling myself, ‘You got it, you got it, you’re a champion, you have to push, you gotta push, nobody is going to give it to you, you have to work, you have to grind, you gotta get it.'”
Beyond motivation, the mask also serves as a psychological tool, helping them focus and maintain a competitive edge. Saunders continued to wear masks at the Paris Olympics this year. Saunders competed in the women’s shot put, qualifying for the final on August 9, 2024. Saunders achieved a distance of 17.93 meters in the second throw and a final throw of 18.62 meters to advance.
Saunders will compete against eleven other athletes in the final, showcasing their unique style and determination.
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