A Swimmer Broke a World Record at the Enhanced Games
Kristian Gkolomeev set a new world record in the 50-meter freestyle at the Enhanced Games in Las Vegas, a controversial event promoting the use of performance-enhancing drugs. Despite the record-breaking performance, the event faced criticism from sporting agencies due to health risks and fairness concerns. The Enhanced Games featured a mix of elite athletes and a unique atmosphere, but raised questions about the implications of doping in sports.
- ▪Kristian Gkolomeev swam the 50-meter freestyle in 20.81 seconds, breaking the previous record of 20.88 seconds.
- ▪The Enhanced Games encouraged athletes to use performance-enhancing drugs, which are banned in most competitions.
- ▪The event was criticized for health risks and fairness issues, with some sporting bodies threatening bans for participants.
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Ben DowsettCultureMay 25, 2026 1:32 PMA Swimmer Broke a World Record at the “Steroid Olympics”Dozens of juiced athletes competed at the Enhanced Games in Las Vegas. Most won’t admit what drugs they used.Photograph: Leon Bennett/Getty ImagesCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyThe crowd’s murmur grew to a roar as Kristian Gkolomeev hit the final quarter of the 50-meter freestyle swim, the Las Vegas Strip backdrop alight behind him.The 32-year-old Greek swimmer was racing in the final competition of the Enhanced Games, a controversial sporting event where 42 athletes from around the world—encouraged to dope using substances that would get them kicked out of the Olympics or most other international competitions—took their shot at world records, personal…
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