Creativity in Competition
Despite the absence of modern performance-enhancing drugs, athletes in ancient Greece still sought to gain an edge. Some competitors would attempt to jinx their opponents through curse tablets, which were inscribed and buried in critical parts of the athletic facility.
Bribery and Dishonesty
Bribery was one of the main methods of cheating, according to the 2nd-century writer Pausanias. In one famous case from 388 B.C., the boxer Eupolus of Thessaly bribed three of his opponents to throw their matches. The penalty? Heavy fines and bronze statues of Zeus inscribed with the details of the scandal, meant to warn future athletes.
Fouls and Tricks
Physical fouls were also common. Wrestlers were caught gouging eyes, biting, and engaging in “testicle-twisting” in an attempt to win by any means necessary. Athletes would also be fined or flogged for starting races early or using prohibited tricks to alter matchups.
Spectators and Judges Involved Too
Spectators and officials were not exempt from cheating either. A mother once disguised herself as a man to watch her son compete, and some judges were fined for favoring their own city-state in competitions.
Cheating in Ancient Olympics: Fouls, Bribes, and Tricks 🏅
Creativity in Competition
Despite the absence of modern performance-enhancing drugs, athletes in ancient Greece still sought to gain an edge. Some competitors would attempt to jinx their opponents through curse tablets,… pic.twitter.com/NUcMexhb9m— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) October 6, 2024