In 1971, the key word "amateurism" was removed from the Olympic charter, marking a significant shift in the way the Games were approached. The removal of this word allowed professional athletes to compete in the Olympics, opening up the field to a wider range of competitors from around the world. This change was a response to the increasing commercialization of sports and the need to adapt to the evolving landscape of athletics. By removing the restriction on amateur status, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) acknowledged that athletes should be able to pursue their sport at the highest level, regardless of their professional status. The decision to remove "amateurism" from the Olympic charter was not without controversy, as some traditionalists believed that allowing professionals to compete would taint the spirit of the Games. However, the move was ultimately seen as a positive step towards inclusivity and fairness in the world of sports. Since 1971, the Olympics have seen an influx of professional athletes from a variety of disciplines, including basketball, tennis, and soccer. This has added a new level of excitement and competitiveness to the Games, as fans are able to see the best of the best go head-to-head on the world stage. The removal of "amateurism" from the Olympic charter has had a lasting impact on the way the Games are viewed and celebrated. It has allowed athletes to fully dedicate themselves to their sport, without having to worry about maintaining an amateur status. This has led to an increase in the overall level of competition and has helped to raise the profile of the Olympics on a global scale. In conclusion, the removal of "amateurism" from the Olympic charter in 1971 was a pivotal moment in the history of the Games. It opened up new opportunities for athletes and changed the way we think about sports and competition. To learn more about the history of the Olympics and the impact of this decision, visit the official IOC website at www.olympic.org.

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