What is a gold medal?

A gold medal is the highest award given to the winner of competitions, typically in sports, signifying first place and exceptional achievement.

What events commonly award gold medals?

Gold medals are most famously awarded in the Olympic Games, World Championships, and major international sporting events, as well as in some academic and artistic competitions.

What are modern Olympic gold medals typically made of?

Modern Olympic gold medals are primarily composed of silver (at least 92.5%) and are plated with at least 6 grams of pure gold.

When were gold medals first awarded for first place in the Olympics?

Gold medals for first place, along with silver for second and bronze for third, were standardized starting with the 1904 St. Louis Olympic Games.

How important is a gold medal to an athlete?

For athletes, a gold medal is the ultimate recognition of years of intense training, sacrifice, and peak performance, often defining their legacy and inspiring future generations.