*** Olympic medals: What’s the real worth behind the glory? | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Olympic medals: What’s the real worth behind the glory?

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com   

Report by Hussain Almaskati

Winning gold at the Olympics is about more than just a medal; it’s a moment of glory and national pride. The 2024 Paris Games have introduced medals featuring iron from the Eiffel Tower, adding a historic touch.

Silver and Bronze: What’s at Stake?

Silver and bronze medals, though not as coveted as gold, still carry significant value.

The silver medal is composed primarily of silver and iron, worth about $486. Bronze medals, made of copper, zinc, and iron, have a modest value of around $13. Yet, the real treasure is the prestige they bring.

Compensation for Victors

Olympic athletes don’t receive direct payments for competing, but medaling brings rewards. For instance, US athletes earn $37,500 for gold, $22,500 for silver, and $15,000 for bronze.

Payouts vary by country, with some nations offering substantial rewards, while others provide more symbolic support.

The medals might not be pure gold, silver, or bronze, but their worth goes far beyond material value, representing the pinnacle of athletic achievement.