US Swim boss apologizes to abuse victims

US Swimming has apologised to victims of sexual abuse, backtracking on earlier claims that it had done nothing wrong.

US Swimming chief executive officer Chuck Wielgus apologised to sex abuse victims in a blog posting more than four years after he said he had nothing to be sorry for.

Wielgus began the message with the words "I'm sorry" and said he brought on criticism by being, "if not defiant, at least defensive" after declaring in 2010 he did nothing wrong in the handling of dozens of sex abuse cases.

"Today, four long years later, I can truthfully say how sorry I am to the victims of sexual abuse," Wielgus said.

"Going back in time, I wish I knew long before 2010 what I know today. I wish my eyes had been more open to the individual stories of the horrors of sexual abuse.

"I wish I had known more so perhaps I could have done more.

"I cannot undo the past. I'm sorry, so very sorry."

Wielgus supported USA Swimming's Safe Sport Program, but an independent report earlier this year suggested nearly 40 ways in which the program could be improved to make youth safer.


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