Olympic swimmer Ben Proud has become the first British athlete to join the Enhanced Games – a controversial new event that allows athletes from all over the world to compete using performance-enhancing drugs. The prize money on offer can hit US$1 million (£730,000). But the swimmer, who won a silver medal at last year’s Paris Olympics, has sparked sharp criticism from sporting bodies after announcing he would be taking part.
In essence, Proud’s decision challenges the core values of fair play and athlete safety. While he frames it as a pursuit of human potential, motivated by financial reward, critics argue it undermines clean sport, poses health risks and is very likely to damage his legacy.
It also leaves him unable to compete in future Olympic Games and raises questions about his suitability to receive public funding.
