13. Zola Budd
South African-born runner Zola Budd became a focal point of controversy during the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. At just 17, she gained British citizenship to compete, circumventing South Africa’s apartheid-related ban. In the 3,000-meter final, Budd collided with American Mary Decker, causing Decker to fall and withdraw from the race. The incident ignited debates over nationality, sportsmanship, and the ethics of athletic eligibility. For more details, see this BBC Sport article.
