Sister-in-law of Team USA athlete dies while attending Olympic Games

The sister-in-law of an American Olympic athlete has died after arriving in Paris for the 2024 Olympic Games.

Lulu Conner, the sister-in-law of Team USA water polo star Maggie Steffens, passes away in Paris earlier this week.

The circumstances of her death have not been disclosed.

Lulu Conner is the sister of Steffens' husband, Bobby Conner.

Lulu was in Paris to watch her sister-in-law compete, and was said to have been 'excited' to watch Team USA.

"She was so excited for the Olympic Games,” Maggie told The Associated Press.

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“We're really close. She's the light of the world. She just brings so much joy to everyone. She always brings people together.

“It definitely helps to play. I'm like so out of body in a way right now. And I just keep trying to remind myself what Lulu would want and how she would be, you know, how can I embody her spirit the best. And Lulu was somebody that she gave 150 percent to everything she did.”

During the Games opening ceremony on Friday, Steffens was seen throwing flowers into the River Seine in remembrance of Lulu.

“It's going to be a really hard couple weeks for all of us,” Maggie added.

“My team has been a really big support system for me. I've been obviously really struggling, and my husband as well, and his entire family.

"I mean, it's a nightmare, and it's completely shocking. But I think just feeling her spirit here is, like I said, it's amazing. And I hope that we can make her proud every single day.”

Team USA coach Adam Krikorian also spoke about the devastating news, explaining that it had been 'a shock for everyone'.

"I don't know the circumstances. But it's a devastating time for Bobby and his family and for Maggie," Adam said, as per the San Francisco Chronicle.

"From what I know Lulu was full of energy, and so excited to be here and watch this team. We can honour her by playing with energy.

"It's not something you're ever prepared for. Maggie knows my pain and sorrow - I've shared that with her. The pain and shock are the things that stick out."

Topics: Olympics, United States