Why Was Wrestling Removed From Olympics?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling Why Was Wrestling Removed From Olympics? Wrestling, an ancient sport that dates back to the earliest civilizations, has been an integral part of the Olympic Games since its inception in 1896. However, it came as a shock to many when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced in 2013 that wrestling would be removed from the list of core sports for the 2020 Olympics. This decision left both fans and athletes questioning the reasons behind such a drastic move. The Evolution of Olympic Sports The Olympic Games have always been subject to change and evolution. As society progresses and new sports gain popularity, some traditional events may be replaced or removed altogether. The IOC continuously evaluates the sports program to ensure it remains relevant and appealing to global audiences. The decision to remove wrestling was based on several factors, including television ratings, global participation levels, and popularity among younger audiences. These considerations play a significant role in determining which sports remain in the Olympics. The Competitive Landscape One of the main arguments against wrestling’s inclusion was its lack of global participation compared to other sports. Some critics claimed that wrestling lacked universality and failed to attract a broad range of athletes from different countries. This argument was supported by declining interest in certain regions and low television ratings during previous Olympic Games. Moreover, wrestling faced tough competition from emerging sports that offered more excitement and visual appeal. Sports like skateboarding, surfing, and rock climbing gained traction due to their ability to engage younger audiences who sought fast-paced action and adrenaline-fueled performances. A Battle for Reinstatement Following its removal from the core program, wrestling enthusiasts around the world rallied together to fight for its reinstatement. The global wrestling community made significant efforts to showcase the sport’s rich history, cultural significance, and global reach. Wrestling’s governing body, known as United World Wrestling (UWW), introduced various reforms to make the sport more appealing. Changes included modifications to the competition format, enhanced gender equality, and increased efforts to attract younger athletes. A Triumph for Wrestling The efforts of the wrestling community paid off when, in September 2013, the IOC reinstated wrestling as a core Olympic sport for the 2020 Games. The decision was met with widespread celebration and relief among wrestlers and fans worldwide. This victory demonstrated not only the resilience of the wrestling community but also the power of unity and advocacy in shaping the future of Olympic sports. In Conclusion The removal of wrestling from the Olympics was a wake-up call for traditional sports that faced challenges in attracting global audiences. The IOC’s decision prompted both criticism and action within the wrestling community, resulting in a successful campaign for reinstatement. The episode serves as a reminder that sports must continuously evolve to remain relevant and capture the interest of diverse audiences. By embracing change and adapting to new trends, traditional sports can secure their place in future Olympic Games while also ensuring their longevity and appeal.
