Tokyo Olympics’ youngest female star dies as boat sinks but twin sister survives

An Olympic sailor who became the youngest woman to compete at the delayed Tokyo Games last summer has tragically died while training at sea with her twin sister.

17-year-old Eya Guezguez, who competed for Tunisia, reportedly drowned after getting trapped underneath her boat when it capsized due to strong winds on Sunday. Her sister Sarra, who competed alongside her in the sailing tournament in Tokyo, was on the same boat but survived the accident.

Tunisian journalist Souhail Khmira was first to break the news of Eya's death, tweeting: "Eya Guezguez, Tunisian Olympic Windsurfer, has passed away today after an accident at practice. May she Rest In Peace."

Since her death, social media has been awash with tributes for the teenager, who had high hopes of competing at the Paris Olympics in two years' time.

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

Tunisian outlet Ettachkila also paid tribute to the youngster, 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."

The Guezguez sisters finished last in the 49er FX event in Tokyo last summer, but were not expected to even qualify for the finals.

Ever since, the two had been training hard in order to earn their spot at the next Olympics, as well as at the World Championships later this year in Canada.

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