We all know Olympians bite their medals, and it is a common sight during the Games’ medal ceremonies and photo sessions. This peculiar yet endearing practice has intrigued many, leading to various theories and explanations.
In this blog, we will explore the historical, psychological, and practical reasons behind this tradition and the possible motivations for athletes’ actions.
1. Historical context
1.1 Gold authenticity test
Historically, biting into gold was a way to test its authenticity. Pure gold is relatively soft and malleable, so biting it would leave teeth marks, indicating it wasn’t a harder, counterfeit metal.
This practice dates back centuries and is often associated with merchants and prospectors who wanted to verify their gold’s purity quickly.
1.2 Modern symbolism
While today’s Olympic medals are not pure gold, this historical test has transformed into a symbolic gesture. Biting the medal has become an iconic image representing victory, authenticity, and a nod to the past.
Athletes might not be checking the medal’s material, but they are participating in a tradition steeped in history.
2. Media and photo opportunities
2.1 Photographer requests
One of the most straightforward reasons athletes bite their medals is due to media requests. Photographers often ask winners to pose with their medals in unique and engaging ways to capture memorable images.
Biting the medal is a playful and visually striking pose that helps create a more dynamic and interesting photograph.
2.2 Media coverage
In an era where media coverage is extensive, these images circulate widely, from newspapers to social media platforms. A unique pose, like biting the medal, can stand out and become a memorable highlight of the Games.
This increases the athlete’s visibility and can lead to more media attention and endorsement opportunities.
3. Psychological aspects
3.1 Expression of joy and triumph
Biting the medal can also be an instinctive expression of joy and triumph. Winning an Olympic medal is the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. This spontaneous act can signify the athlete’s emotional release and personal victory.
3.2 Childhood habits
There’s a theory that biting objects is a remnant of childhood habits. Many people have the habit of biting or chewing on objects when they are excited or nervous. This behaviour can carry over into adulthood, especially during highly emotional moments like winning an Olympic medal.
4. Practical considerations
4.1 Ensuring medal safety
By holding the medal in their teeth, athletes might feel they have a secure grip on their hard-earned prize. With all the excitement and the need to pose for numerous photos, biting the medal can be a way to ensure it doesn’t slip out of their hands.
4.2 Peer influence
Seeing fellow athletes and predecessors engage in the same behaviour can also encourage others to follow suit. It becomes a shared tradition and a mark of camaraderie among Olympians, reinforcing their connection to the broader Olympic community.
5. Notable incidents
5.1 Misunderstandings
There have been instances where the practice of biting the medal has led to humorous misunderstandings.
For example, in 2010, German luger David Moeller accidentally chipped his tooth while biting his silver medal, showcasing that while the gesture is symbolic, it can sometimes lead to unintended consequences.
5.2 Endorsements and branding
Some athletes use the moment to make a statement or endorse a brand subtly. The unique pose can be used in advertisements, increasing the athlete’s marketability and connection with fans and sponsors. This helps them earn a significant sum in the days to come!
The tradition of Olympians biting their medals is a multifaceted phenomenon with roots in history, psychology, and media practices. While the original purpose of testing gold’s authenticity has faded, the gesture has evolved into a symbol of victory, joy, and participation in a global tradition.
This simple act encapsulates the triumph, hard work, and cultural significance of being an Olympic champion!
If you are interested in more such topics, learn about the theories concerning the possible end of mankind.
FAQs
No, Olympic gold medals are not made entirely of gold. Since the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, the “gold” medals are primarily composed of silver and coated with a thin layer of pure gold. The International Olympic Committee mandates that each gold medal must contain at least 6 grams of gold plating over 92.5% pure silver.
Yes, some athletes have sold their Olympic medals. This is often done for financial reasons or to support charitable causes. One famous example is American swimmer Anthony Ervin, who sold his 2000 Sydney Olympics gold medal to raise money for tsunami relief efforts in 2004.
Several countries have never won an Olympic medal. As of the latest Games, countries like Andorra, Monaco, and San Marino, despite participating in multiple editions of the Olympics, have yet to secure a medal. These nations often have smaller populations and fewer resources dedicated to elite sports training.
