Cody Miller's Bold Move: Diving into the Enhanced Games
Two-time Olympic medalist Cody Miller recently unveiled his decision to join the Enhanced Games in a candid YouTube video. This move, which made headlines after being reported by the New York Times, has sparked considerable discussion. But why would a decorated athlete like Miller, who retired from sanctioned competition in December 2024, choose this path?
Miller revealed that his decision aligns with three core life objectives. First and foremost is longevity. He wants to be present for his children, a desire deeply rooted in the loss of his father, Craig, who passed away at the age of 60, just before Cody competed in the 2016 Olympics. "He never got to see me compete. So longevity is one of the most important things to me, it’s basically number one. I want to be around for my kids."
Next, Miller addressed the potential concerns surrounding the Enhanced Games. He emphasized that his long-term health is paramount. "When you see a lot of the wild headlines about Enhanced and how it’s dangerous, I’m here to tell you it’s not really the case. This is something that most people don’t really understand." He also shared that he's undergone medical screenings and blood work since joining, gaining a deeper understanding of his body than ever before.
And this is the part most people miss... The financial incentives offered by the Enhanced Games are undeniably a significant draw. Miller openly admitted, "They’re paying me a lot of money, I have no shame in saying that," highlighting his second objective: being a provider. The potential to earn substantial sums while continuing his passion for racing and training was a key factor. A swimmer could potentially win $500,000 for winning two events, with the possibility of earning $1 million or more for breaking records. To put this into perspective, British sprinter Ben Proud, a prominent swimmer who has also joined the Enhanced Games, stated that the financial rewards are equivalent to winning world titles for 13 consecutive years.
Miller expressed pride in the opportunities available to athletes, stating that they deserve better financial rewards. He pointed out that he earned less than $100,000 after winning two medals at the 2016 Olympics. "I personally think we athletes deserve better than that, and Enhanced is doing that."
The third objective for Miller is adventure. He values new experiences and sees the Enhanced Games as an exciting opportunity. He mentioned his participation in ice swimming events and his enjoyment of finswimming, both of which have different rules than traditional swimming. He views the Enhanced Games as another unique competition with its own set of regulations.
Miller concluded his video by reiterating his retirement from World Aquatics-sanctioned events and his detachment from USA Swimming. He clarified that he has no affiliation with Indiana University and Indiana Swimming in Bloomington, where he trained for nearly 15 years. "I have my own training group, which has no affiliation with any of those things. I want to make that super, super clear."
Controversy Alert: Miller also emphasized his support for "clean sport" in traditional swimming, acknowledging that the rules should be followed. Indiana head coach Ray Looze declined to comment on Miller’s decision.
A Look Back at Miller's Career:
At the 2016 Olympics in Rio, Miller secured a bronze medal in the men's 100 breaststroke, setting an American Record at the time with a time of 58.87. He also contributed to the gold-winning U.S. men's 4x100 medley relay. Additionally, Miller boasts two World Championship gold medals from the men's 4x100 medley relay in 2015 and 2017, along with three additional medley relay medals from Short Course Worlds in 2014 and 2016. He also earned a silver medal in the 100 breaststroke at the 2019 Pan Am Games.
After placing 15th in the 100 breaststroke and 17th in the 200 breaststroke at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials, Miller announced his retirement last December.
Miller joins Megan Romano as the second American swimmer to join the Enhanced Games, becoming the 11th male and 14th swimmer overall in this controversial league, which is set to host its inaugural event in May 2026.
What are your thoughts on Cody Miller's decision? Do you agree with his reasoning, or do you have different perspectives on the Enhanced Games? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
