NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Olympic gold medalist, Steven Gardiner firing back at Olympic gold medalist Pauline Davis for her rebuke of athletes who she claimed failed to be transparent about their physical condition ahead of the Olympic Games in Paris.
In a social media post Gardiner said, “To Pauline Davis, please don’t ever speak on me ever because you’ve never been an influential person to many of us athletes you would love to see us suffer and it shows. You wasn’t in attendance during my warm up but you we’re the first to broadcast you’re loud and wrong remarks to spread lies and propaganda which is pure evilness but you’ll be just alright. I’ll pray for you just like others.”
Gardiner added, “now that it’s been a few days let me address something that’s needs to be addressed. At the end of the day the day is going to end, I’m a human just like no other. I don’t live for the approval of people… all the wild narratives from others who wasn’t even in attendance is bizarre. Thank you everyone who reached out. Your words of kindness is greatly appreciated, see you guys next season.”
Last week Davis, who retired with double Olympic gold, called for “respect” from Bahamian athletes in a recent social media post that has garnered significant attention.
Commenting on the performance of Team Bahamas at the Olympics, she emphasized at the time the importance of respecting their country and people. She advised injured athletes to “pass the baton” rather than risk performing poorly due to health issues.
Davis-Thompson said, “Never should you not show up on the line without explaining beforehand. If you are injured, pass the baton to others. Do not come to the games. Today, I grieve for my Bahamas. I feel the tears of my fellow countrymen. My heart aches. It’s not about the medals. It’s about RESPECT and love for our Bahamas. Love you always, my beautiful Bahamas. You will always come first.”
Olympic gold medalist Bahamian Steven Gardiner, the defending Olympic 400-meter champion, was a non-starter in Monday’s competition, dashing hopes for a medal at the 2024 Olympics. The 28-year-old was scheduled to run in Heat Four, which featured medal favorite Quincy Hall of the United States.
