> In a way, it is akin to modern-day slavery

They all have a free choice about whether to be an Olympian or to take a more lucrative career path. It was obvious to me even as a kid that the chances of making money as an Olympian is about as probable as making money as a singer in a rock and roll band.

I.e. a thoroughly impractical career choice.

Even worse, no matter how good you are, a random injury or getting the flu at the wrong moment will destroy your chances.

> It's making athletes entrepreneurs

Along with artists, painters, photographers, etc.