2024 Paris Olympics: Why do Olympic athletes bite their medals?

One of the most iconic moments of the Olympics is when athletes bite their medals on the podium. This tradition has become so popular that it’s almost expected, but many people wonder why athletes do it.

The practice of biting medals likely originated from the idea of testing the authenticity of gold. Historically, people would bite into coins to check if they were real gold, as gold is a soft metal and would show teeth marks. However, modern Olympic gold medals are not made of pure gold but are mostly silver with a thin gold coating. Despite this, the gesture has become symbolic rather than practical.

The tradition has been fueled by photographers who encourage athletes to bite their medals as it makes for a more interesting and memorable picture. The image of a victorious athlete biting their medal has become synonymous with Olympic success, and many athletes happily oblige for the cameras.

Beyond the historical roots and media influence, biting the medal has become a way for athletes to express their joy and triumph. The act is a playful and light-hearted way to celebrate their hard-earned victory. It’s also a way to connect with fans, as these photos often go viral, spreading the athlete’s image across the world.

While the tradition may seem a bit quirky, it has become a beloved part of Olympic culture. For many athletes, the medal-biting photo is a keepsake that captures the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice.

So, while Olympic athletes no longer need to check the authenticity of their medals by biting them, the tradition continues as a way to celebrate and memorialize their achievements on the world stage.