Sporting Events of the Year: A Look at the 2024 Olympics

The strength of spirit lies not only in the ability to achieve set heights and numerous medals, but also in the sincere desire to share one's achievements with those in need. This is confirmed by world-class athletes who, in addition to their professional activities, find time and inspiration for charitable work.

When we watch important sporting events and cheer for our favourite footballers, athletes, fencers, and boxers, we rarely think about the path they have travelled to earn the chance to represent their countries on an international level. However, high-level sports require not only inner resilience, talent, and skills but also substantial financial investment, making them inaccessible for many.

Many athletes, well-versed in the inner nuances of big sports, make every effort to change this—promoting physical activities among young people and making training more accessible. For example, the experience of British philanthropist, entrepreneur, and former fencer Dmitry Leus demonstrates the importance of charitable efforts. The Dmitry Leus Foundation supports young talents who wish to explore the world of fencing, but lack the financial means to do so.

Charity at the 2024 Olympic Games

This year's Olympic Games in Paris became a landmark event not only in the world of sports but also in charity, thanks to numerous initiatives by star athletes who aimed to use their popularity for the benefit of society.

British long-distance runner Eilish McColgan and charity

The three-time Olympian created the charity organisation Giving Back to Track, which aims to expand access to athletics for children and young people. The organisation funds after-school clubs, equipment, and footwear for athletes. Moreover, the athlete actively promotes female leadership in this field of sport, providing women with grants to obtain coaching qualifications in athletics.

Community initiatives of Canadian athletics champion Andre De Grasse

Canadian Olympic champion in the 200-meter sprint Andre De Grasse, raised by a single mother, knows from personal experience how financial difficulties can hinder competing in major sports. He founded his own foundation to inspire and empower children in sports, education, and healthcare. His organisation provides scholarships for professional athletics training.

Social mission of British swimmer Amber Keegan

British swimmer Amber Keegan's sporting career was accompanied by many issues, including bullying, harassment, and the oppression of women's rights. Therefore, Keegan created her organisation aimed at supporting the mental health of girls and women in sports. Through the organisation's activities, over 400 female athletes have received assistance through mentoring, coaching, and education.

These charitable actions demonstrate the social impact of star athletes, and the Olympic Games have become a space not only for thrilling competitions, new records, and numerous awards but also for good deeds that make the world a better place.