Olympic fans left confused as Raven Saunders wears a bizarre mask and shades combination for the shot put event – but ‘The Hulk’ has revealed the powerful reason behind it

While watching the women’s shot put event at the Olympics, you may spot an athlete donning a mask and shades alongside striking green and purple hair.

That athlete is none other than Raven Saunders, who has made a name for herself with her unique appearance.

The Tokyo silver medalist has returned to the Games and fans are keen to see her wear the Hulk mask she sported in 2021. Such an Olympics-Marvel crossover is a rarity.

But what drives her to maintain such a distinctive aesthetic? Saunders revealed that the mask helps keep distractions from other athletes at bay, thereby enhancing her focus and motivation, yet it also embodies her ‘Hulk’ persona.

‘I strive to be my greatest supporter — I really can’t share exactly what I say to myself because most of it would require bleeping,’ said Saunders, who uses they/them pronouns, in an interview with Yahoo Sport.

Raven Saunders has captivated fans with a unique look – a black mask, shades, and vibrant green and purple hair

The shot put star – who identifies with they/them pronouns – is competing at a third Olympics in the women’s category

In Tokyo, Saunders went viral for wearing a Hulk mask, part of embracing an alter-ego

‘In summary, I’m reminding myself, ‘You got this, you are a champion, you need to push harder, no one is going to hand it to you, you have to work and grind to accomplish your goals.’

‘It’s about positive affirmations that equip me with the strength to achieve what I need to without external distractions.’

Fans are embracing her style. One user on X commented: ‘I hadn’t heard of Raven Saunders until about ten minutes ago, but now I’m totally a fan. The throwing events need more fierce competitors!’

Having qualified in seventh, Saunders opted for a black mask, but don’t be surprised if she also dons a Hulk-themed mask during events.

‘Initially, much like the Hulk, I struggled to distinguish when to let that side emerge, and when to reign it in,’ Saunders shared with Yahoo Sport.

‘Through my journey, particularly concerning mental health, I have learned to compartmentalize, akin to Bruce Banner learning to control the Hulk — knowing when to unleash it for the right moments, which ultimately provides a sense of mental calm.’

‘When the Hulk does emerge, it’s all about smashing through challenges.’

Saunders earned the nickname ‘Hulk’ due to her formidable 5’5′ stature.

However, her path to Paris has been challenging, having first competed in Rio and then in Tokyo.

Saunders has articulated that wearing the mask enhances focus by minimizing distractions from other athletes

The American athlete won silver in Tokyo and is aiming for an even better result this time

In 2021, the shot put star recounted to Action 5 News that she experienced overwhelming suicidal thoughts at times.

‘I wanted to raise awareness that this is a reality, many of us grapple with these issues,’ Saunders stated. ‘I aimed to be a voice, showing that individuals might find themselves in similar situations but you are not alone.’