Gladiola
Well-Known Member
Traditionally the Olympics was limited to amateur athletes (although that has eroded especially with MLB and NBA players in baseball and basketball). Almost all competitive gymnasts are theoretically amateurs, as are ice skaters. (Professionals may compete in certain ice skating events, but not in world championships or Olympics.) College sports also would be considered to be amateur. In the United States traditionally the distinction that has made someone a professional is that they get paid.