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FIFA World Cup 2026 posterThe financial challenges which drove an Olympic champ to Enhanced Games
Sport Nation • May 29th, 2026 9:53 am
Hunter Armstrong | Photo: IOC
Two-time Olympic gold medallist Hunter Armstrong is one of the most fascinating figures in world swimming right now.
The American backstroke specialist and former 50m backstroke world record holder recently hit the headlines for winning the 50m backstroke at the inaugural Enhanced Games, striking a blow for "clean" athletes across the world.
Winning multiple world championship medals and starring for Team USA at both the Tokyo and Paris Olympics, he's built a reputation not only for his speed in the pool, but also for his honesty about the mental and financial challenges elite athletes face.
Why IOC president doesn't believe in paying Olympians | Sport Nation
On Friday, Armstrong joined Sport Nation Mornings with Ric & Chappy to dive into his controversial decision to compete at the Enhanced Games while remaining drug-free — a move he says was driven by the financial realities facing professional swimmers.
On a related note, he also touches on controversial recent comments to Sport Nation by IOC President Kirsty Coventry in regards to her belief Olympians shouldn't be paid.
Listen to the full interview below:
