Winning medals or winning hearts  

The times they are a-changin', sang Bob Dylan in the 1960s. But even he didn't have any idea about how much the world would change in the next 40 years. The world's economies, communications, cultures and international relations have all changed beyond recognition, as has the world of sports.

Gone are the days when "friendship first, competition second" was chanted by athletes at every sports meet in China and banners proclaiming that spirit adorned every single sporting venue.

Sport was then supposed to build a healthy body and mind, and was enjoyed for its own sake. "The most important thing" then, as founder of the modern Olympics Pierre de Coubertin said, was "not winning but taking part."

Sporting glory and furtherance of their sport were the twin motivators for sportsmen and women. Outstanding performers were rewarded with no more than a trophy and a certificate of recognition.