Why do Olympians have Olympic tattoos?
Isabella Harris
Updated on January 20, 2026
Getting an Olympic tattoo is a tradition for athletes who have the honor of competing on the world stage. It can happen whenever the Olympic dream becomes a reality. For Elizabeth Beisel, a three-time Olympic swimmer, getting the rings tattooed was among the first things she did when she found out she'd be an Olympian.
Do the Olympians have Olympic tattoos?
Pretty much every single event has been guaranteed to have at least one competitor flaunting some ink: a set of Olympic rings on the ankle, a pair of wings on the shoulder blades, a scary tree on the bicep. Some Olympians' tattoos are impressive, or even moving; others are confusing, or plainly regrettable.Do Olympians cover tattoos?
In some cases, people with tattoos are asked to cover their ink, according to the Center for Asia Pacific Studies. At this year's Olympics, stigma or not, the tattoos are on full display -- especially the popular image of the Olympic rings.Does everyone get an Olympic tattoo?
It's a tradition that dates back several decades and has become so ubiquitous that it's practically considered a rite of passage. For some athletes, those rings will be the first (and maybe only) tattoo they get. But for others, tattoos are just a part of who they are.How many Olympic athletes have the Olympic rings tattoo?
Tokyo Olympics: 10 athletes who have rings tattoo, including Hong Kong's own Siobhan Haughey and Stephanie Au.Olympians show off their Olympic tattoos
Does Michael Phelps have Olympic tattoo?
On His Right Hip, He Has The Olympic RingsAn athlete commemorating their trip to the Olympics with a tattoo is a common way to remember a lifelong achievement. But it was Michael Phelps' Olympic rings tattoo on his right hipbone that has gotten the most attention.