For centuries, the Olympics have mesmerized viewers from all around the world, exhibiting the remarkable talents and devoted commitment of competitors. Nevertheless, recent revelations regarding the remuneration these Olympians acquire have left many in shock.
Breaking the Silence on Athletes’ Salaries
While discussions about salaries are often hushed, @howmuchthough, a TikTok user with a following of 196,000, decided it was time to unveil the truth about Olympic athlete earnings. In the Tokyo Olympics, the United States awarded gold medalists a substantial sum of $37,500. Silver medalists received $22,500, while bronze medalists obtained $15,000. Surprisingly, countries with fewer expected medals, like Hong Kong, bestowed even grander rewards, offering gold medalists a staggering $644,000. Upon learning about the United Kingdom’s remuneration for Olympic victors, the TikToker was stunned – practically $0!
Remuneration Outside Medal Winnings
Outside of medal winnings, the livelihood of an Olympian may be difficult to maintain. Star athletes such as Usain Bolt acquire lucrative income, while lower-profile performers struggle to make ends meet. Certain nations supply stipends to their athletes; take Great Britain, for instance, which affords their competitors about $36,000 per year for their requirements. Furthermore, sponsorships with businesses can also bolster their funds. Nevertheless, for lesser-known players, the income generally does not surpass $10,000 each year, and may not be successfully secured at all. Athletes in less-publicized sports, such as archery or speed skating, often need secondary jobs to fund their Olympic aspirations.
The Public Reacts
Unsurprisingly, the viral TikTok video amassed over 920.2k views and sparked numerous comments. Reactions were mixed, with many expressing astonishment at the seemingly low compensation in contrast to hardcore training of over four years. Yet, some clarified that athletes often earn income through brand deals and sponsorships, making up for the apparent shortfall. Others highlighted the intrinsic motivation behind Olympic endeavors, emphasizing that national pride and passion often overshadow monetary incentives.