I am a lucky man. The Olympic Games in Paris is the ninth edition I have attended; the first being in Barcelona in 1992. I took part in four of these, as an athlete who reached the podium. I experienced the remaining five from every possible point of view: as a spectator, as a member of the International Weightlifting Federation and as a coach for the United States of America national team. During these decades of moving in Olympic spheres, I have witnessed many changes. In addition to the venue in which they are hosted, the Olympic Games have adopted more characteristics. Developments in TV coverage have allowed spectators to come closer to the athletes – now able to see the emotions on their faces. The introduction of new sports to the Olympic programme has attracted young audiences and has familiarised us with disciplines that we had not heard of before. At the same time, the concept of security reminds all of us that we are living in an unpredictable world, in turbulent times.

Thus, everything is changing in the Olympic Games. Everything except the principles of Olympism and the dreams of the athletes taking part. In today’s world, Olympic ideals are more relevant than ever. Moreover, Olympism is often ahead of its time. Concepts such as inclusion, acceptance of diversity and harmonious coexistence have constituted the Olympic spirit for decades, long before they were debated by societies. However, as a sportsman, as an Olympian who knows the pain that is caused by partaking in a competitive sport at such a high level, I must focus primarily on the athletes. For many of these young people, the Olympic Games represent the purpose of their existence – something which gives meaning to their lives and which shapes their dreams. For this reason, and for me personally, watching the Olympics is not about the scoreboard or the ranking list. It is about seeing the expressions on the athletes’ faces. In their joy and their sadness. Their tears and their cries of jubilation. It is about the human beings who are fighting to surpass themselves.