Saunders said she's been open about her mental health struggles so others don't feel alone. It's also why she wears her identities so proudly as a gay Black woman.

The USOC decision put them at parity with U.S. Olympians, who receive $37,500 for a gold medal, $22,500 for silver and $15,000 for bronze.

In Tokyo there is reduced excitement about the Summer Olympics which have been marred by rising coronavirus infections. Many athletes feel muted and isolated as the Games get underway.