Which of the following was a combat sport in the ancient Olympic Games?

Pankration was indeed a combat sport in the ancient Olympic Games, making it the correct answer. This event was a combination of boxing and wrestling, allowing a wide range of techniques and methods for competitors to defeat their opponents. It was introduced in the 33rd Olympiad in 648 BC and quickly became one of the most popular and celebrated events in the ancient Games.

The nature of pankration emphasized strength, endurance, and skill, and it was known for being a very brutal competition, often resulting in serious injuries. Unlike today’s modern combat sports, pankration had few rules, and virtually anything was allowed except for biting and eye-gouging, marking it as a true test of martial prowess.

In contrast, while soccer, tennis, and archery have long histories, they were either not part of the ancient Olympic Games or were not classified as combat sports. Archery was included in the ancient games, but it does not fall under the category of combat sports. Soccer and tennis have origins that are much later and were never part of the ancient Olympic traditions. Thus, pankration stands out as the definitive combat sport among the choices provided.