Final answer:
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into glucose and oxygen. Athletes obtain energy from the sun through photosynthesis when consuming plant-based foods or animal products that contain stored energy in the form of glucose. This stored energy is released and utilized by cells through cellular respiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
All the energy used by living things on Earth originates from the process of photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, plants convert sunlight, carbon dioxide (CO₂), and water into glucose (C6H₁2O6) and oxygen (O₂). This glucose serves as a source of stored energy that is later accessed by athletes when consuming plant-based foods or animal products. By breaking down the chemical bonds in glucose through cellular respiration, the stored energy is released and utilized by cells, enabling athletes to perform physical activities requiring energy. So, an athlete's energy ultimately originates from the sun through the process of photosynthesis.