Over 100 athletes from the Paris 2024 Olympics have returned their medals due to concerns over their rapid deterioration. Social media posts revealed significant issues, with Team USA skateboarder Nyjah Huston likening his bronze medal to something that “went to war and back” and Danish badminton champion Viktor Axelsen highlighting stark differences between his Paris 2024 gold and his shinier Tokyo 2020 medal.
The medals, manufactured by the Monnaie de Paris and incorporating pieces of the Eiffel Tower, used a new varnish after the ban on the chemical chromium trioxide. However, the varnish caused unsightly wear and damage, sparking disappointment among athletes. French swimmer Clément Secchi compared his damaged gold medal to “crocodile skin,” and Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade expressed sadness over her scratched accolades.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has pledged to replace all defective medals. Meanwhile, the Monnaie de Paris has adjusted its production processes to enhance medal durability. Reports of executives being dismissed over the issue were denied by the organization, citing confidentiality.
?? Paris 1924 pic.twitter.com/WzfoV3ECQt
— Yohann Ndoye Brouard (@yohann_2911) December 28, 2024
Athletes await replacements as the incident raises questions about the quality control of Olympic memorabilia. Despite the IOC’s assurance, the controversy has overshadowed some of the Games’ triumphs and sparked frustration among competitors.
