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Why Does the Olympic Host Country Win So Many Medals?
There are several reasons why a host country might see a boost in the Olympics medal count.
SPORTS
Why Is the Olympic Field Hockey Pitch So Wet?
Here’s why high-level field hockey competitions keep the turf nice and watered.
How Much Gold is in a Gold Medal?
The amount of gold in Olympic medals is regulated, and there’s a lot less than there used to be.
The Star Tennis Player Who Survived the ‘Titanic’ and Went On to Win Olympic Gold
Richard Norris Williams dreamed of being a tennis great. The ‘Titanic’ nearly cost him his legs.
What Do the Hand Signals Mean in Olympic Beach Volleyball?
Beach volleyball's hand signals are a handy way for a blocker to clue their teammate into their next move.
Why Do Olympic Swimmers Wear Two Caps?
There's a reason why two caps are better than one.
Why Are Olympic Fencers Attached to Cables?
Fencing body cords aren't a safety measure.
How Olympic ‘Fast Pools’ Are Designed for Maximum Performance
Learn the science behind the most advanced swimming pools out there.
A Stimulating History of Free Condoms at the Olympics
Condoms in the Olympic Village have been a tradition—and a public health service—since 1988.
Why Do Olympic Swimmers Slap Themselves?
It's to get the blood flowing—or is it?
Why Are Some Olympic Swimmers Covered In Dark Circles?
In events where success or failure can be measured in tiny increments, it’s not surprising athletes will turn to any potential advantage. But does cupping actually work?
What Do the Olympic Rings Mean?
Pierre de Frédy, Baron de Coubertin, intended the rings to represent nations “united by Olympism.”
How Is the Olympic Flame Lit—and How Does It Stay Lit?
This year, the Olympic torch made a symbolic journey from Greece to Paris for the Summer Games.
Why Won’t Team USA Dip the Flag at the Olympics Opening Ceremonies?
America is the only country that refuses to do so.
11 Female Gymnasts With Skills Named After Them
At the Olympics, some athletes will be performing tried and true moves. Others might be throwing new skills that will one day bear their names.
The 20 Countries With the Most Olympic Gold Medals
Whoever said winning isn't everything didn't have 1175 gold medals.
10 Scandals That Rocked the Summer Olympics
Though the Games are meant to foster a sense of unity among nations, they’ve seen their fair share of scandal—and even tragedy.
10 Sports Cut From The Olympics
If you’re looking forward to polo and tug of war at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, we have bad news for you.
Watch Jesse Owens Win Four Golds at the 1936 Olympics in Nazi Germany
The Black track star smoked the competition to win a record-setting four gold medals, making a mockery of Adolf Hitler’s belief in Aryan supremacy.
10 Great Olympics Movies
From ice skating comedies to wrestling tragedies, Tinseltown skillfully draws upon the world’s biggest sporting spectacle.
Why Do Tennis Balls Come in Airtight Containers?
The key to holding court? A fresh can of tennis balls.
7 Misconceptions About Olympic Sports
Divers shower after every dive for a surprising reason.