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Even with the ups and downs of viewership because of time changes or politics, the Olympic Games are consistently a huge hit, which might explain why Japan spent $12 billion to bring them there. It also explains the $800 million it’s losing in ticket sales but hopes to make up in future tourism. 

There’s a lot at stake for everyone: money, bragging rights and status as a sports icon. So there’s no mystery as to why athletes train a lifetime for a few moments of competition. And why the entire sports-industrial complex joins the cheering crowd. 

Host Angela Davis speaks with a trio of sports reporters about the enduring appeal of the Olympics.

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Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.

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The number of Americans watching the Olympic games in Tokyo is upwards of 16.5 million. And while the odds of any of us ever reaching Olympic levels of achievement are low, our interest in other people getting there is endless. Why? What’s the appeal of the Olympics?

MPR News with Angela Davis - The number of Americans watching the Olympic games in Tokyo is upwards of 16.5 million. And while the odds of any of us ever reaching Olympic levels of achievement are low, our interest in other people getting there is endless. Why? What’s the appeal of the Olympics?

Why we’re watching the Olympics

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