In a social media post, 22-year-old Canadian swimmer Mary-Sophie Harvey disclosed a distressing incident where she claims to have been drugged during the recent FINA World Championships in Hungary. She alleged waking up under the care of her team doctor and coach with bruises and a memory gap of four to six hours during the championships in May.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the Tokyo Olympian felt compelled to share her story, aiming to potentially assist others facing similar situations. She also clinched a bronze in the Hungarian capital as part of Canada’s 4×200 metres relay team at the swimming world championships which concluded on June 25.
Expressing her feelings of being “completely lost” and “ashamed,” Harvey vowed not to let the incident define her. She also shared photos of bruises on her legs, stating that there were more bruises she didn’t feel comfortable sharing publicly.
Swimming Canada acknowledged the incident, stating that it occurred the night before the team’s departure from Budapest. They confirmed that Mary received on-site medical treatment and was cleared to travel back home, with further support being offered to her upon her return.
Harvey mentioned that the incident took place while she was celebrating the conclusion of the World Championships, suspecting that she was drugged and later had to be carried home unconscious by her friends.
Expressing her experience of shame and encountering judgment, she highlighted the lapse in her memory and her subsequent medical treatment, emphasizing the need for more support for victims of such crimes.
Amid her fears and lingering concerns, Harvey affirmed her determination not to let the unsettling event shape her, thanking those who aided her in vulnerability and the individuals who have reached out to provide support.