Olympic athletes cash in

The recent public uproar in Malaysia surrounding Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh's social media post featuring Thai badminton athlete Kunlavut Vitidsarn highlights a perceived insensitivity towards national pride following Lee Zii Jia's recent loss. Critics, including sports analyst Zakaria Rahim, argue that timing and empathy are crucial, suggesting Yeoh's post felt tone-deaf in the wake of national disappointment. Meanwhile, as the Paris 2024 Olympics approach, brands are spending heavily to secure sponsorship and marketing rights, with costs reaching up to $12.5 million for top-tier packages. The Olympics continue to serve as a major economic event, generating significant revenue for the International Olympic Committee, which faces ongoing scrutiny regarding corruption and governance. Additionally, many Olympic athletes, particularly women, are compelled to maintain 'side hustles' to support their sports careers, as highlighted by water polo star Maggie Steffens. Lastly, the Olympics provide a platform for athletes to seek lucrative sponsorships, as evidenced by Noah Lyles' ambitions for a sneaker deal following his victory.