Professionals in the Olympic Games?

Question

I thought that the Olympic Games were meant for Amateurs men and women alike, that have trained at least for 4 years to qualify.

So why is there professional people like Nadal,Federer, Ronaldinho, the Williams sisters ,competing in games that are meant for Amateurs so that they can prove themselves,and maybe1 day they to can turn Pro and earn plenty Money????

Answer 1

I think it still should be for amateurs only. They relaxed the rules to interpret the term "amateur" as people who get paid for the sport but it is not their major income. Then relaxed it further to allow professional to participate as long as they weren't paid for this particular event. Then it became "expenses only" which was a farce because that could encompass anything. Now it is anything goes.

End of the day it's all money. The olympic organisers want as many big names to bring in the spectators, advertising and sponsorship. For the professional athletes, it's income and media coverage. Probably for some sports it counts in the ranking system now, so they cannot afford not to attend.

Answer 2

WTF are you talking about. The soviet bloc had professional athletes competing in the olympics since the 60s.  

Answer 3

16 medal in olympic

Answer 4

Dunno.  I thought exactly the same thing when I heard that the Williams sisters had won the tennis - then again most of the people taking part are professionals and make a living from doing this.

Answer 5

This has been debated many times. i think they shouldnt be allowed. i beieve the Olympics should be about qualifying AND chasing your dreams. They have already had their dreams met. (Major ones anyways).

Answer 6

it's not about games anymore, it's about money