I agree with putting too much emphasis on winning (gold medals) has negativities, and it would be more beneficial for the society as a whole to promote sport and general involvement rather than stealing resources by spending six times what australia pays its swimming coach to get results.
However the article is obviously biased, and haters gon hate. Committing more time to achieve better results in itself has no faults. It's really not that hard to understand, especially if you consider the culture gap, that parents want the best for their children, to have a good life, because success affects the future, rather letting her worry about tragedies like death, which are part of the past.
To a nation that does not see itself as a dominant force quite yet, potential gold medallists that promote the country are probably highly-regarded. It was cruel to hide the facts from her, even inhumane really, but she did win gold in 3 consecutive olympics. As parents, it's questionable if this is worth risking.
the parents simply wanted the best for their child, even if it may or may not be the best decision