Olympics’ youngest athlete dies aged 17

Tunisian sailor Eya Guezguez tragically died, while training at sea with her twin sister Sarra on Sunday.

The 17-year-old, who was the youngest female athlete of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, passed away following an accident where the vessel capsized due to the wind.

Her sister, who competed alongside her in the sailing tournament at Tokyo 2020 Games last summer, survived the sinking.

The Guezguez sisters finished in 21st place in the 49er FX event, but had high hopes to compete at future Olympic Games and improve on their debut performance.

Her passing was first reported by Tunisian journalist Souhail Khmira, who tweeted: ‘Eya Guezguez, Tunisian Olympic Windsurfer, has passed away today after an accident at practice. May she Rest In Peace.

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The official Twitter page of ETTACHKILA also paid tribute to the young sailor, by saying: ‘Barely 16 years old, our sailing champion, Eya Guezguez died today following an accident during training for the national team.

‘We extend our condolences to her family and love ones.’

La Pelota creator Zied Jendoubi, wrote: ‘Eya Guezguez, died following an accident during training for the national sailing team.

‘Eya, was with her twin sister, the youngest Olympian at Tokyo 2021.’

Since the sad news broke out, social media has been flooded with tributes to the champion.

One of her friends tweeted: ‘What terrible news… Eya, your death was a dagger that pierced our hearts. Rest in peace dear friend. You will remain among us forever!’