Ohio police arrested Olympic gold medalist and former Ohio State wrestling standout Kyle Snyder on May 9, 2025, in a prostitution sting. Undercover police apprehended 16 men, including the 29-year-old athlete, after the suspects responded to online ads posted by an operation targeting prostitution on Columbus’ North Side.
According to Columbus’ news outlet WBNS, Snyder allegedly arranged to meet at a hotel, paid a cash fee, and solicited services before being arrested and released at the scene. Snyder will appear in court on May 19, 2025.
” … A fan of the world’s oldest profession”
Snyder’s arrest marks a stark contrast to his illustrious wrestling career. He became the youngest American wrestler to win an Olympic gold medal at the age of 20 during the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games. His victory in the 97kg freestyle category was a significant achievement, making him only the second Ohio State wrestler to earn an Olympic medal and the first in 92 years.
During his time at Ohio State, Snyder secured three consecutive NCAA heavyweight championships from 2016 to 2018 and was part of the Buckeyes’ 2015 national championship team. Ohio State named him Male Athlete of the Year in 2016 and 2017, and he received the Big Ten Medal of Honor in 2018.
Snyder’s pro career
Beyond college, Snyder continued to excel on the international stage. He won a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing fourth. His achievements also include three World Championship titles and multiple Pan American Championship gold medals.
Recently, Snyder had joined the new Real American Freestyle wrestling promotion, launched by wrestling legends Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff. The arrest has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, given Snyder’s status as one of the sport’s most decorated athletes. As legal proceedings unfold, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges athletes may face off the mat.
Published: May 12, 2025 03:07 pm