Probably 1948. As early as 1980 many of the Olympic sports were allowing athletes who had competed in professional leagues, but not the major North American ones, to play in Olympics. Under the table payments to athletes was quite common were quite common.
In the 50's, 60's and 70's many claimed that the USSR and other east european countries were sending professional athletes as they were fully funded and supported by the state. Many athletes served in the military of these nations, but there primary assignment was as a full time athlete.
1984 Los Angeles were 'amateur'
In 1986 the decision was made to go ''open'' so the next games in Seoul were inclusive of professionals
No because people were training full time and funded too so they were shamateur.
I disagree. About 1984 sounds right. Other than Basketball & tennis & a few of the winter sports do you really have money making pros. Boxing for example is still strictly non pro.
Somewhere in 1908 or so maybe. When stuffy old men would take back your medals if you were even a store clerk.
was it more enjoyable then?
