Flavor Flav, the iconic hip-hop hype man, is making waves at the 2024 Paris Olympics—not just for his energetic support, but for his heartfelt commitment to helping athletes feel supported as they represent Team USA. Known for his larger-than-life personality and signature clock necklaces, Flavor Flav is proving that his heart is just as big as his persona.
Already, the legendary Public Enemy rapper has gone above and beyond by sponsoring both the U.S. Women’s and Men’s Water Polo Teams. He stepped up after learning that many players were juggling multiple jobs to fund their dreams of competing on the world’s biggest stage. Flav has been in Paris for the past week, energetically cheering on the teams as they chase after Olympic gold. His passion for supporting these athletes doesn’t stop there, though. Flav’s latest act of generosity has made headlines and won the hearts of many.
The story took a turn when Flav learned about Veronica Fraley, a U.S. discus thrower who was struggling to make ends meet just before her Olympic debut. Veronica, who recently earned a bronze medal at the Olympic trials, took to Twitter on Thursday (August 1) to share her financial difficulties. “I compete in the Olympic Games TOMORROW and can’t even pay my rent 😒 my school only sent about 75% of my rent while they pay football players (who haven’t won anything 😂) enough to buy new cars and houses 👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾,” she tweeted, highlighting the financial disparities faced by athletes in less commercialized sports.
Flavor Flav, ever the generous spirit, was quick to respond. He replied to Veronica’s tweet with an offer that touched many. “I gotchu,,, DM me and I’ll send payment TODAY so you don’t have to worry bout it TOMORROW,,, and imma be rooting for ya tomorrow LETZ GO,!!!” Flav wrote, showing not just his willingness to help, but also his genuine enthusiasm for supporting athletes in need.
The story didn’t end there. Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and a well-known advocate for women’s sports, also noticed Veronica’s plight. He offered to cover her rent for the rest of the year, sending her $7,760 to ensure she wouldn’t have to worry about housing costs through the end of 2024. Explaining his donation, Ohanian said he chose the specific amount because “I like the number (my firm is @sevensevensix).” His gesture not only provided immediate relief for Veronica but also shone a light on the financial struggles many Olympic athletes face, even as they represent their country on the global stage.
In a statement, Flavor Flav expressed his motivation behind his actions: “I’m just happy to help those in need who are representing the best of all of us. This is exactly why I have been in Paris and trying to bring awareness of the hardships of some of these Olympians.” He didn’t stop there, extending his gratitude to Alexis Ohanian for also stepping up to support not just Veronica, but female athletes more broadly.
“This is the power of using your platform in a positive way,” Flav continued. “You never know how one act of kindness can change someone’s life. Maybe this took some weight off her shoulders today so she can throw some real weight off her shoulders tomorrow and I hope she brings home a medal. She knows I got her back and people perform better when they know someone has their back.”
Flav’s actions underscore the importance of supporting athletes beyond just their performance on the field or in the arena. His willingness to step in and provide financial assistance highlights the often-overlooked struggles that many athletes face. For Veronica Fraley, knowing that she has such support behind her could be the boost she needs as she competes in the Olympics.
For those inspired by this story and wanting to support Veronica further, she has set up a verified GoFundMe page.
