July 27th 2024.
As the world eagerly anticipates the start of the Paris 2024 Olympics, one particular tradition is sure to catch the attention of both sports enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. With over 10,000 of the world's most talented athletes ready to compete in 32 different sports over the course of 19 thrilling days, it's safe to say that fans can expect to witness incredible displays of physical prowess and athletic achievement. And as a testament to their hard work and dedication, many of these athletes will proudly stand on the podium, adorned with gold, silver, and bronze medals.
But amidst the cheers and celebrations, a curious sight may catch the eye of some spectators - the athletes biting into their medals. From Olympians to Premier League footballers, this peculiar pose has become a common sight. But why exactly do these high-caliber athletes engage in this seemingly strange behavior?
As it turns out, the reason for this tradition has evolved over time. In the past, when gold was used to make medals, biting into it was a way to determine its authenticity. Since gold is softer and more malleable than other metals, a genuine gold medal would leave an indentation when bitten into. However, with modern advancements, most medals are no longer made entirely of gold. In fact, Olympic gold medals are required to be at least 92.5% silver and must contain a minimum of six grams of gold. So why do athletes still feel the need to chomp down on their medals?
The answer lies in the symbolism of the medals. While the material may not be pure gold, the medal itself represents the highest achievement in sports - a symbol of hard work, perseverance, and triumph. And for the athletes, biting into their medals has become a way to capture that moment of glory and success, immortalized in photographs that will be cherished for years to come.
According to David Wallechinsky, president of the International Society of Olympic Historians, this tradition has become an obsession for photographers who see it as an iconic shot that can be sold for profit. It's not something the athletes would necessarily do on their own, but it has become a part of the Olympic experience and a way to commemorate their achievement in a visually striking manner.
So as you watch the Paris 2024 Olympics, don't be surprised if you see athletes biting into their medals - it's all part of the tradition and the symbol of their remarkable accomplishments on the world stage.
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