U.S. figure skater Vincent Zhou possibly out of men's event after positive COVID-19 test
Olympic organizers say they've discussed improving isolation conditions with athletes
American figure skater Vincent Zhou has tested positive as part of regular COVID-19 screening at the Beijing Olympics, one day after struggling through a poor free skate for the eventual team silver medallists.
The high-flying but wildly inconsistent 21-year-old Zhou arrived in Beijing with high hopes of contending for a medal. He finished sixth in the men's program at the Pyeongchang Games, but his second-place finish at the NHK Trophy and victory at Skate American in his two Grand Prix assignments gave him hopes of earning a medal.
He'll get at least one as part of the team silver medallists. He'll await another COVID-19 test to see if he can earn another.
Organizers discuss isolation conditions with athletes
Olympic organizers say they had a call with athletes Sunday to discuss living conditions at isolation hotels.
"We know that that's not easy for anyone in that situation, but particularly an athlete who's gone through the journey to get here," said Kit McConnell, sports director for the International Olympics Committee.
Everyone inside the Olympic bubble is required to take COVID-19 tests. Those who are confirmed positive must go to an isolation facility until they're cleared for discharge, either through negative tests or a review by a panel of medical experts.
The call with athletes came after complaints about inadequate food, small and unclean rooms, and a lack of access to training equipment. Over the weekend, organizers said they were addressing the issues and that athletes in isolation would be able to order food from the Olympic Village and have it delivered to their rooms.
As of Monday, organizers say 387 people inside the Olympic bubble have tested positive. The figure includes includes news media and team officials, not just athletes.
