When China first hosted the Summer Games in 2008, the country sought to celebrate its national pride on an international stage and hopefully, establish itself as an "emerging global superpower." From the opening festivities to the closing rituals, the energy inside the Bird's Nest was both infectious and energizing.
But 14 years later, at the Winter Games held in Beijing, the atmosphere has become more dismal with an ever-growing list controversies and scandals drawing focus from the athletic excellence and spirit of international amity that's supposed to be fostered.
