Ben Proud Makes Waves with Controversial Move

Ben Proud, the 30-year-old star swimmer famed for his stellar performances in the 50m freestyle—having snagged both World and European titles and an Olympic silver medal—has stunned the sporting world. Proud is set to become the first Brit to join the Enhanced Games, a platform that raises eyebrows across the globe.

A Bold Decision at a Turning Point

In an interview with BBC Sport, Proud revealed his motivations for this decision, stating, 'I’m satisfied, I’m happy. I’m ready to step away.' He argues that the Enhanced Games do not undermine the integrity of clean sports, but introduce exciting, new challenges.

What Are the Enhanced Games?

Launched in 2023 by Australian entrepreneur Aron D'Souza, the Enhanced Games promise a radical reimagining of athletics. D'Souza's vision? To push the limits of human potential while promoting safe, supervised performance-enhancing methods. Athletes under his banner can use certain FDA-approved substances banned by traditional sports organizations like WADA, which has condemned the initiative as 'dangerous' and 'irresponsible'.

Proud Defends His Choice with Passion

Proud firmly stands by his choice, asserting, 'Everything is FDA-approved and accessible to the public, with strict oversight by healthcare professionals. I'm committed to never taking anything I’m unsure about.' He emphasizes that the Enhanced Games prioritize safety and health.

Financial Incentives and Future Plans

Set to unfold annually, the inaugural Enhanced Games will grace Las Vegas from May 21-24 next year, showcasing short-distance swimming, sprinting, and weightlifting. The promise of financial rewards is undeniable; athletes could earn hefty appearance fees and bonuses, as exemplified by Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev, who secured $1 million for his record-breaking swim earlier this year.

Respecting Traditional Sports