Cuban wrestler Mijaín López has etched his name in Olympic history by securing his fifth consecutive gold medal in Greco-Roman wrestling at the Paris 2024 Games. The 41-year-old athlete, who will turn 42 later this month, defeated Chile’s Yasmani Acosta 6-0 in the final of the 130 kg category.López’s unprecedented achievement makes him the first athlete to win five consecutive Olympic gold medals in the same individual event. His golden streak began in Beijing 2008 and continued through London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and now Paris 2024.Following his historic victory, López announced his retirement from the sport. In an emotional moment, he followed the wrestler’s tradition of leaving his shoes on the mat, symbolizing the end of his competitive career. ‘The journey has come to an end, it’s time for me to rest. My body is asking for rest. I’m happy with everything, happy with who I am and who I will continue to be,’ López stated.López’s career has been nothing short of legendary. In addition to his Olympic triumphs, he has also won five World Championships and three World Cups. His dominance in the sport is further highlighted by his impressive record of 22 wins and only one loss in Olympic competition, with that sole defeat coming in the quarterfinals of the 2004 Athens Olympics.The wrestling world and sports fans alike have recognized López’s extraordinary feat. As his coach remarked, ‘He is a legend, a great champion, and an example to follow’. López’s achievement surpasses those of other Olympic greats like Michael Phelps, Carl Lewis, and Paul Elvstrom, who each won four consecutive gold medals in their respective events.Looking to the future, López expressed his desire to contribute to the sport in a different capacity. ‘To achieve these results, one must first love their sport, love their professionalism, and demonstrate to the world that with little, great things can be accomplished,’ López said, highlighting the keys to his success despite the challenges faced by his country. He plans to dedicate his future to training new wrestlers, stating his intention to ‘educate the younger generations’.As López leaves the mat for the final time, he leaves behind an unparalleled legacy in Olympic wrestling. His five consecutive gold medals stand as a testament to his skill, dedication, and longevity in a sport known for its physical demands.
Key points
- Mijaín López won his fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal in Greco-Roman wrestling.
- López announced his retirement from competitive wrestling after his historic win.
- He plans to mentor and train future generations of wrestlers.
- López’s achievement surpasses other Olympic legends, making him the first to win five consecutive golds in the same individual event.
