The Controversy Around the Bronze Medals- The Paris 2024 Olympics were not only a stage for extraordinary athletic talents but also a place of controversies that were discussed all around the world. The event began in July and was under the umbrella of issues from environmental concerns to artistic choices. One moment from the opening ceremony put up a show with drag queens and dancers that some viewers connected to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.
The Controversy Around the Bronze Medals
The most recent issue included swimmers Clement Secchi and Yohann Ndoye-Brouard, who took to social media to expose that their bronze medals were deteriorating with black spots two months after the Olympics. Secchi shared an Instagram shot that quickly gained popularity. Comments included “Not Clement Secchi’s bronze medal that is flaking.” Ndoye-Brouard responded by posting similar photographs of his medal and saying “Paris 1924,” a reference to France, which last held the Summer Olympics before 2024.
Paris Olympics Bronze medals Cracking, Chipping & Flaking
On December 27, Mr. Carter posted a photo on X of a bronze medal with black stains and evidence of degradation. The caption said, “Not Clement Secchi’s bronze medal that is flaking.” Secchi won a medal in the 4×100-meter medley relay at the Paris Olympics. Secchi first posted a snapshot of his medal on Instagram Stories, revealing the damage, and the image soon travelled throughout X.
What causes Bronze medals to corrode?
Bronze medals tarnish mostly due to oxidation, a process in which the metal reacts with oxygen in the air. Oxidation causes the medals to turn a dull colour. This creates a coating of cuprous oxide on the surface, which detracts from the medal’s look. The composition of these medals indicates that they are primarily made of copper, zinc, and tin. As a result of their exposure to air and moisture, they are more susceptible to oxidation. Some reports available online imply that the players’ unique use of metals in bronze alloy may not be of the highest quality, causing it to tarnish more easily.
The Changing Landscape of Global Sports
Other entrants, notably British diver Yasmin Harper, had similar concerns with their medals. American skateboarder Nyjah Huston stated that, while the medals looked excellent when new, they faded swiftly with use, raising concerns about their quality. This issue appeared to primarily affect bronze medalists, triggering a backlash against the organising body, who vowed to replace the damaged medals thereafter. The Olympic Games took place from July 26 to August 11, 2024, and featured not just conventional sports but also new activities such as surfing, skateboarding, and sport climbing, reflecting the changing landscape of global sports.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the bronze medals at the Paris Olympics centers on the use of recycled materials, leading to concerns about their quality and symbolism. Critics argue that the medals, while environmentally conscious, may lack the prestige and durability of traditional designs. Ultimately, this debate highlights a broader tension between sustainability and tradition in the Olympic Games, as the quest for eco-friendly solutions risks corroding the rich legacy of Olympic excellence.
The Controversy Around the Bronze Medals FAQ’S
What is the issue with the Paris Olympics?
Although Paris conducted the event in an environmentally sustainable manner, the hosts received harsh criticism. The controversies weren’t limited to the hosts. The event featured a gender row, athletes being disqualified in the final, and athletes winning the race in 5000th of a second.
Are Olympic medals corroding?
Axsom believes that copper oxidation is the most likely cause. Several news agencies reported that the discolouration and chipping were caused by sustainability efforts, “but that is not true,” Axsom explained. “Using recycled metals to produce metals is not the cause of this.
What is the Paris Olympic boxing controversy?
Boxing is now in the heart of a crisis at the Paris Olympics after a pair of competitors, Algeria’s Imane Khelif and Chinese Taipei’s Lin Yu-ting, started competing despite failing unspecified gender eligibility checks.
Are the Paris Olympic medals deteriorating?
Yes, according to a few competitors, the medals presented to them at the Paris Olympics 2024 are gradually losing their colour and quality.