Kurts Adam Rozentals, a British canoeist, says that he was banned from training or competing due to his use of the social media platform OnlyFans in order to raise money for advancing his career.

Rozentals competes in the canoe-slalom event and is a part of Paddle UK’s World Class Programme, which targets Olympic hopefuls. The governing body suspended him in April.

Paddle UK, in a press release, did not reveal the nature of the accusations, but stated that he was subject to an interim measure, pending an independent investigation.

Rozentals said to the BBC that he started using OnlyFans, a subscription service which allows users to monetise adult content.

Rozentals stated, “I’ve been posting videos on Instagram that are deliberately made to be edgy to drive conversions to onlyfans.com/spicycontent to fund my ultimate dream of going the Olympics.”

Rozentals is funded by Paddle UK’s World Class Programme with 16,000 pounds for his training, but he claims that this does not allow him the opportunity to be a full time athlete.

He says that he has to decide between his career and earning money via social media.

Rozentals said, “This was the most difficult decision I have ever made in my life.” Rozentals set up his OnlyFans profile in January. “I realised why I began doing this last winter, after years of struggle. My mum worked 90 hours a week, and there were bailiffs outside my door.

“I will find a solution where we won’t struggle and my mum can live a happy life. I am able to give everything to this sport, because thinking about paying the rent and standing on the starting line is not conducive to performing well.”

Paddle UK stated that its interim action wasn’t a disciplinary matter but rather “a neutral act”, designed to protect both parties.

A statement stated that the decision was made to protect other athletes, staff and volunteers because of the nature of the accusations.

“Paddle UK has a commitment to providing a safe, open and welcoming environment for everyone. Interim action is taken under the Athlete Discipline Policy only when necessary and proportionate.”

OnlyFans has helped athletes in other sports fund their careers.

Last year, gay New Zealander Robbie Manson said that he had increased his income by posting adult-themed material on the website.

He said, “I’m leaning slightly into it because I am gay and have a gay audience and following.” “I wouldn’t say that it’s for everybody, but for other athletes there is definitely an opportunity.”

Jack Laugher of the United Kingdom, who won bronze at the 3m springboard men’s synchronised in Paris, created OnlyFans 2024 in order to “make ends met”. Reporting by Martyn Herrman Editing Christian Radnedge

(source: Reuters)

This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.