Why do Athletes dope?

Yet again, revelations about doping in sports are in the news. Last week’s sports columns were dominated by the news of US Sprinter Tyson Gay being tested positive for a banned performance-enhancing drug. Also, Serbian Tennis player Viktor Troicki was banned for 18 months by ITF for a violation of the tennis anti-doping programme. In recent weeks two high profile Jamaican athletes, Asafa Powell and Sherone Simpson had also failed drug tests. Nowadays doping in sports has become such a mundane issue that the general public seldom reacts with shock and disbelief to these reports.

Lance Armstrong, Marion Jones, Maradona, Ben Johnson. These are a few of the high profile names who destroyed their legacy, whose careers were tarnished and who disappointed their millions of well-wishers and supporters by taking banned substances. In a world where athletes who use performance-enhancing drugs always seem to get caught, often with disastrous consequences for their careers, what compels an athlete to risk not only his or her legacy but livelihood as well?

Pressure to Perform
In this world of cut-throat competition, there is more pressure to win and perform in sports today than ever before in history. Fans and coaches have high expectations for athletes and this can place considerable pressure on athletes. The athletes feel that they have to be perfectionist and these tendencies can make performance-enhancing drugs seem not only justified, but necessary.

Fame and Recognition
Every athlete has desire for recognition and fame. Unfortunately, that creates some athletes who are determined to win at any cost. And, they may use that determination to justify the use of anabolic steroids.

Monetary Gains
Though it is not a primary reason for most of the athletes to take performance-enhancing drugs, but financial gains do become a motive. Not all athletes are wealthy. Particularly among Olympic athletes, financial gain often comes in the form of sponsorships, not from the sport or league. Athletes know that the best way to get cushy sponsorship deals and contracts is to break records or win competitions and hence they may feel justified to use drugs.