I think the original question was limited to Wellington v. Ryf. He opened it a bit with language regarding "best IM triathlete ever", however I don't think that opens the door to an ITU v. IM debate.
The level of competition needs to be considered to some degree when comparing athletes of different eras - I don't have an answer or opinion since I am not familiar with the competitors across the history of IM, but would assume the level of professionalism and competition has increased with the passage of time.
"It's good enough for who it's for" - Grandpa Wayne
The level of competition needs to be considered to some degree when comparing athletes of different eras - I don't have an answer or opinion since I am not familiar with the competitors across the history of IM, but would assume the level of professionalism and competition has increased with the passage of time.
"It's good enough for who it's for" - Grandpa Wayne