Turkmen athlete helped her fallen rival at the Olympic Games in Paris

At the Paris Olympics, Turkmen runner Valentina Meredova showed truly exemplary sportsmanship by returning to the track after completing her race to help injured South Sudanese rival Lucia Maurice, reported "TurkmenPortal.

The incident occurred on August 2 when Maurice fell in the 70th meter of the course during the first round of the women's 100-meter sprint. Although Meredova finished fourth and qualified for the next round of the competition, she, along with Lao athlete Silina Pha Aphai, immediately returned to assist the victim. The athletes stayed with Maurice until the arrival of medical personnel, waiting for her to be evacuated on a stretcher.

Meredova's noble act did not go unnoticed and was highlighted by Sports Illustrated, an American sports magazine, which emphasized that such mutual assistance and compassion go beyond ordinary sporting achievements. This case became a symbol of unity and mutual assistance, confirming that the Olympics are not only a competition for medals, but also a platform for human qualities.

Valentina Meredova, who will turn 40 in September, is one of the most experienced participants of the Paris Olympics. In 27 years in athletics, she has set Turkmenistan's records in the 60 meters (7.44 seconds) indoors and 100 meters (11.56 seconds).