Kristian Gkolomeev falls just 0.07 seconds short of 50m freestyle world record in Las Vegas

The much-hyped debut of the Enhanced Games in Las Vegas ended without a single officially recognised world record, leaving organisers scrambling for a positive spin despite allowing athletes to openly use performance-enhancing drugs.

Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev came closest to making history when he touched the wall in 20.81 seconds during the 50-metre freestyle final. That timing was actually 0.07 seconds faster than the existing world record. But officials refused to ratify it because Gkolomeev wore a banned "skinsuit" and competed under the influence of prohibited substances.

For a competition that promised to shatter sporting boundaries, the five-hour event felt strangely ordinary to many inside the venue.

Loud music, bright lights, empty records

The atmosphere resembled a music festival more than a serious athletic meet. Social media influencers lined the pool deck. Prize money worth crores of rupees brought in some familiar faces. But when it came down to actual performance, the numbers told a different story.

Large screens throughout the stadium displayed exactly which drugs athletes were using during their events. Testosterone, EPO, anabolic steroids – nothing was hidden. Yet the expected flood of world records never arrived.

Swimmer's near-miss sparks debate

Gkolomeev's swim became the talking point of the night, though for complicated reasons. His 20.81-second clocking would have rewritten the books if not for the equipment and chemical assistance.

"The organisers celebrated it like a victory anyway," said a spectator who attended the late evening session. "But everyone knew it didn't count in the real record books."

Athletes divided on doping question

Perhaps the most revealing moments came during the post-race comments. American sprinter Fred Kerley, who won the men's 100 metres, took a swipe at his rivals immediately after crossing the line.

"The rest should work harder, maybe take a little more drugs," Kerley said, drawing mixed reactions from the crowd.

In complete contrast, women's 100-metre winner Tristan Evelyn pushed back against the idea that doping was responsible for her victory. "This proves that winning doesn't come just from chemistry," Evelyn said.

Weightlifting chaos raises eyebrows

The weightlifting portion of the event descended into confusion at several points. Icelandic strongman Hafthor Bjornsson, known worldwide for his Game of Thrones role, failed to improve upon his own 510 kg deadlift record despite multiple attempts.

Canadian lifter Boady Santavy received an extra attempt after failing – a decision that drew comparisons to school sports day rather than elite competition.

Prize money proves the real draw

British swimmer Ben Proud didn't hide his primary motivation for participating. After winning the 50-metre butterfly and finishing second in another event, Proud reportedly earned around ₹3.5 crore.

"When I heard about these games, it felt like winning the lottery," Proud said.

That kind of money explains why athletes showed up. Whether the Enhanced Games can build credibility beyond the cash incentives remains an open question after this lacklustre debut.