𝐳𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐠𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢

This 21-year-old was in a total state of shock. You can see the fear, trauma, confusion and overwhelm in his eyes. This is no way to treat anyone. It really has changed my view on and respect for The Olympics as an organisation. The press is a stressful pack of wolves that must be reined in and managed at all times. The way Ilia gave those interviews with such grace and poise after the worst moment in his career, and having zero time to reflect, process or even call his mum, is testament to his character and inner core values. And people have the audacity to question why he won that beautiful fairplay award. I just want to hug him until no one and nothing can abuse him ever again. Quite frankly, I wish he had told them all to fuck off. I’m glad he’s doing that now: “No. Fuck off, I’m not doing that.” Go Ilia Malinin. Note to self: Be more like Ilia Malinin. 🖤💜💛