The greatest moments at the Olympics!
Winning a gold medal at the Summer Olympics is an achievement in itself, but doing so while breaking records elevates it to another level. Beyond Michael Phelps' iconic feats at the 2008 Beijing Games, numerous other athletes have left their mark by smashing records on their way to capturing gold medals. As we anticipate the 2024 Paris Games, let's reflect on some of the most remarkable and record-breaking performances in Summer Olympics history.
Bob Beamon was astounded by his record-breaking long jump at the 1968 Mexico City Games, so much so that he experienced a cataplectic seizure. In what became known as the Leap of the Century, Beamon shattered the world record by 21 3/4 inches. His jump of 29 feet, 2.5 inches, surpassed the capabilities of the Games' measuring equipment. Beamon's accomplishment is even more remarkable considering it remains the oldest standing Olympic record.
Despite the scoreboard's inability to display her score, Nadia Comaneci achieved gymnastic perfection at the 1976 Montreal Games. Her flawless performance on the uneven bars compelled judges to award her a perfect 10.00 score. This feat had never been achieved before, rendering it technically impossible to show on the scoreboard. Undeterred, Comaneci repeated this perfection six more times, ultimately securing three gold medals. Overnight, the Romanian gymnast skyrocketed to celebrity status thanks to her remarkable performance, earning gold in the uneven bars, balance beam, and all-around individual events.
In Michael Phelps's quest to surpass Mark Spitz's gold-medal record, a move he had been trained never to do became pivotal! Trailing behind Milorad Cavic in the 100-metre butterfly at the 2008 Beijing Games, Phelps defied convention by pumping his arms when swimmers are typically instructed to extend fully. This bold manoeuvre allowed Phelps to out-touch Cavic by a mere one-hundredth of a second, securing his third gold medal on his way to ultimately winning eight at the Games. Phelps's pursuit of eight golds also relied on a dramatic comeback by teammate Jason Lezak in the 400-metre freestyle relay. However, his narrow victory over Cavic in the butterfly remains a standout moment in Olympic swimming history.
Phelps with his medals!
When facing an opponent who hadn't been defeated in 13 years, many would feel intimidated, but not Rulon Gardner. At the 2000 Sydney Games, Gardner famously defeated Alexander Karelin to claim the Greco-Roman wrestling gold medal. Despite having competed internationally only once before, the American triumphed over Karelin, who was the three-time defending Olympic champion and widely regarded as the greatest wrestler of all time. Karelin had not conceded a single point in over a decade, yet Gardner persevered to secure the super heavyweight gold.
Usain Bolt's dominance was so pronounced that he intentionally slowed down, not out of modesty but to celebrate his extraordinary performance. At the 2008 Beijing Games, Bolt stunned the competition with a 100-metre sprint timed at 9.69 seconds (though capable of reaching 9.54). He also set a new world record in the 200 metres, finishing in an impressive 19.30 seconds. While much of the attention was on swimmer Michael Phelps' pursuit of eight gold medals, Bolt's two golds garnered considerable attention for their sheer spectacle. Since then, Bolt has gone on to break both records, setting the stage for his anticipated runs at the 2012 London Games as must-see events.
The Paris Olympics will add more iconic moments to this list. Until then, these remain the great moments of the Olympics!
