South Korean Olympic silver medalist Kim Ye-ji, known for her composure and futuristic glasses, collapsed at a recent press conference.
The incident, likely due to stress and exhaustion, has raised concerns about the pressure athletes face.
Kim, a 31-year-old pistol shooter who won silver in the 10-meter air pistol event, fainted while speaking at an event in her home county of Imsil.
Officials confirmed she regained consciousness and was taken to the hospital for observation. Reports of CPR being administered were denied.
Kim’s rise to fame wasn’t limited to her athletic achievement. Her calm demeanor and distinctive glasses, used for enhanced precision, captured the attention of social media.
This, along with her cool style, earned her the nickname “smiling assassin” back home.
Just days before the collapse, Kim even received a shout-out from Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who suggested she’d be perfect for an action movie role.
This incident highlights the demanding nature of professional athletics and the importance of athlete well-being. It’s a reminder that even under the bright lights of victory, athletes are susceptible to the pressures of competition and public scrutiny.
