Olympians train their whole lives for a chance at the rare, split-second glory of being declared the best in their sport once every four years. But some superstar athletes can expect to win more than just a medal.
Earlier this month, the International Olympic Committee announced a controversial decision to reward 2024 Paris Track and Field gold medalists with $50,000, in addition to their medals (which will have a piece of iron from the Eiffel Tower embedded in them). Though it is the first time the Olympic committee has offered winners prize money, some countries have long spoiled their award-winning athletes with lavish gifts— from cars to land grants to livestock.
