Have we forgotten the Olympic ideal?

Question

As we all (myself included) follow the Olympics with patriotism for our countries. Have we lost the Olympic ideal laid down by Baron Pierre de Courbertin in our quest for personal or National glory?

Answer 1

That's correct. If everyone only thinking of getting medals than most of the athletes won't be there at all as most of them know it is unlikely to get a medal.

Answer 2

Yes, I reckon lots of people have forgotten the Olympic ideal. Especally all those who think winning a gold medal is the ONLY thing that matters. Well, the only thing that actually matters is that every athlete does his or her best for their country (and NOT cheat).

Go you Aussies!!

Answer 3

Definitely, since the media started keeping "medal counts" per country, instead of saluting good performances by INDIVIDUALS, regardless of nationality. I'm a Scotsman but I love watching Jamaican sprinters, Brazilian soccer players, U.S. basketballers, etc., in other words watching "class" regardless of where they were born. Many athletes compete for countries they were not born in anyways. It should not be " War without weapons" as one author described it. Lets enjoy !!

Answer 4

Yes, well said... The Olympics have definitely become more of a "war without weapons" and there are many viewers who fail to look beyond the whole winning/losing part of the games. Even some of the athletes have lost this Olympic ideal, and have resorted to performance enhancing drugs. Other athletes however, are there to represent their countries, to try their personal best and to inspire those watching at home, while hopefully picking up a medal along the way... and these athletes to me, are the true Olympians. Besides, being ranked amongst the best in the world is a pretty awesome feeling too, I bet.