Nigerian Olympians Applaud World Athletics’ $50k Reward for Gold Medalists at Paris 2024 Olympics
Nigerian Olympic gold medallists, Chioma Ajunwa and Enefiok Udo-Obong, have voiced their excitement over the recent announcement by World Athletics regarding prize money for gold medalists at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics.
This move, they believe, marks a positive stride by the global athletics governing body and will significantly boost competition in athletics events.
The total prize money of $2.4 million will be allocated among gold medalists, with each recipient set to receive $50,000. Additionally, relay gold medalists will divide their prize money among team members. World Athletics has confirmed that this initiative will extend to silver and bronze medalists at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Ajunwa, Nigeria’s first-ever Olympic gold medallist, commended the announcement but expressed a desire for recognition of all podium athletes, stating, “I would have loved them to give a token to other athletes who make the podium. This will make the athletics events in Paris more competitive.”
Similarly, Udo-Obong echoed the sentiment, calling it a positive move while hoping for emulation by other international federations. He emphasized the evolving nature of the Olympics, noting the participation of professionals and the presence of TV money, thus advocating for incentives for athletes.
World Athletics President, Lord Coe, hailed the decision as a “pivotal moment,” emphasizing the organization’s commitment to empowering athletes. He stressed the importance of acknowledging athletes’ contributions to the success of the Olympic Games and ensuring that revenues generated by athletes are returned to them.
The introduction of prize money for Olympic gold medallists marks a significant shift in athletics, aligning with the evolving landscape of global sports and underscoring the value of athletes’ dedication and performance on the world stage.
