Athletics has made history by becoming the first sport to offer prize money to Olympic champions, ending a 128-year tradition.
The 48 gold medalists at the upcoming Paris Olympics will each receive $50,000, totaling a $2.4 million prize pot. World Athletics President Sebastian Coe announced the decision, emphasizing the importance of recognizing athletes’ efforts in making the Games a global spectacle.
The move marks a significant shift in the Olympic landscape, although the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has yet to comment on the development.
Athletes, including Norway’s Karsten Warholm, have welcomed the news, acknowledging its importance in professionalizing the sport.
Despite the historical amateur ethos of the Olympics, the introduction of prize money reflects the changing landscape of modern sports.
Details regarding prize money for silver and bronze medalists, as well as future Olympics, will be announced later.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 11, 2024
