By Joe Aura
contact info: aurajoe6@gmail.com
{image by GettyImages}
Eliud Kipchoge, the legendary Kenyan marathon runner, is on the brink of making history once again.
With the Paris 2024 Olympics approaching, Kipchoge aims to achieve a remarkable feat: becoming the first man to win three Olympic gold medals in the marathon. Beyond personal glory, Kipchoge seeks to inspire a global appreciation for running and promote a healthier, more active lifestyle. Notably, Kipchoge has expressed his support for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by Olympic organizers to tackle online abuse, demonstrating his commitment to athletes’ well-being.
Challenges in Athletes’ Social Media
Kipchoge has faced challenges, including becoming a target of online abuse following the tragic death of fellow Kenyan marathon runner, Kelvin Kiptum. These experiences shed light on the darker side of social media, where anonymity emboldens harmful behavior. This kind of online abuse not only impacts athletes’ mental and emotional well-being, but also poses a threat to their safety and professional careers.
Kipchoge’s resilience in the face of adversity has been a source of inspiration, showcasing his unwavering spirit and commitment to his goals. “These faceless people are posting bad things and are really dangerous,” he said, “If you report some accounts then it takes time for them to delete those accounts. “They should act fast, get the facts, delete accounts. People [should] know that if you say something which is not good then your account will be deleted.” [B.B.C News]
To address the severity of online abuse, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced a proactive approach to protect athletes during the Paris 2024 Olympics. Leveraging AI, the IOC aims to monitor and mitigate abusive behavior on social media platforms.
Understanding the Cyber Abuse Protection Service
The cyber abuse protection service was developed specifically for the sports sector and is a leading global solution for safeguarding athletes from online abuse. This AI-driven service uses forensic investigation techniques and a specialist methodology for identifying and addressing abuse. It has gained traction in the sports sector, being utilized by clubs, leagues, players’ unions, federations, and global sports event organizers.
The service will prioritize the safety and well-being of athletes across the Olympic and Paralympic Games, offering greater insight into the scale and nature of online abuse specific to athletes at the Games. It will also provide evidence to expedite takedown action against abusive content on social media platforms and protect the community around the event.
For the Paris 2024 Olympics, any accredited athlete with a public-facing social media account will be automatically covered by the initiative. Athletes can opt out if they choose, and entourage members and technical officials can opt in to benefit from the services. Kipchoge has welcomed this announcement, emphasizing the need for swift and effective action against online abuse to protect athletes’ mental and emotional well-being.
“I think it’s actually the right direction,” he said. “They are now stamping their authority and their function as an organisation handling the athletes to safeguard them from abuse.” He believes that social media companies should act fast to delete abusive content and hold wrongdoers accountable.
AI’s Impact on the Olympics
AI’s role in the Olympics extends beyond combating online abuse. The technology will assist athletes in various aspects, including training, performance analysis, and injury prevention. For fans, AI promises to enhance the viewing experience through improved broadcasting and interactive features, making the Games more engaging and accessible. This integration of AI represents a significant step forward in the evolution of sports and the Olympic experience.
The anticipation for the Paris 2024 Olympics is palpable, particularly among African athletes who are making their final preparations with high hopes. The goal of winning 50 medals for the first time at the Olympics highlights Africa’s growing prowess in various sports.
As the world eagerly awaits the start of the Games, Kipchoge’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration. The advancements in AI and their application in sports not only promise to enhance the Olympic experience, but also contribute to the evolution of sports.