Maggie Steffens, a prominent water polo athlete from the United States, faced a devastating personal tragedy just before the Paris Olympics as her sister-in-law passed away.
Lulu Conner, who was 26 years old, sadly died on Tuesday after having traveled to Paris to support Steffens and the women’s water polo team. Steffens is vying for her fourth consecutive gold medal.
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Maggie Steffens during a preliminary match against Greece at the Summer Olympics, Saturday, July 27, 2024, in Saint-Denis, France. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)
The family characterized the circumstances surrounding Conner’s death as a “medical emergency.”
“She was so excited for the Olympic Games,” Steffens shared with The Associated Press. “We had a really close bond. She was the light of our lives, spreading joy to everyone she met. She had a unique ability to bring people together.”
Steffens mentioned that participating in games serves as a constructive distraction from her sorrow. She scored two goals during Team USA’s victory over Greece on Saturday.
“Competing helps a lot,” Steffens remarked. “Right now, I feel somewhat disconnected. I constantly remind myself of what Lulu would want and how I can best honor her spirit. Lulu was the kind of person who gave her all to everything she pursued.”
Maggie Steffens scores a goal against Spain at the Summer Olympics, Monday, July 29, 2024, in Saint-Denis, France. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)
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Steffens, recognized as the top-scoring woman in Olympic history, tied the knot with Bobby Conner, 31, in Puerto Rico last November.
During the opening ceremony, NBC reported that Steffens honored Conner’s memory by tossing a small bouquet of flowers into the River Seine.
“The upcoming weeks are going to be extremely challenging for all of us,” she expressed. “My team has been an incredible support system. My husband, as well as his whole family, are understandably struggling. It feels unreal and shocking. However, sensing her spirit here is incredible. We aspire to make her proud every single day.”
Maggie Steffens speaks with reporters during a press conference ahead of the Summer Olympics, Wednesday, July 24, 2024, in Paris. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)
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The United States team faced defeat against Spain in their Monday match, falling 13-11.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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