The Most Stunning Upsets in Olympic History
New Delhi: Olympic History: The Olympics is renowned for showcasing the pinnacle of athletic prowess, where the best athletes compete for glory. However, it is also a stage where surprises are frequently born, and upsets become part of the event’s rich history. Here are some of the most extraordinary upsets in Olympic history that have left audiences in awe.
Rulon Gardner vs. Aleksandr Karelin (2000 Sydney Olympics)
One of the most unforgettable moments in Olympic wrestling came in the 2000 Sydney Olympics when Rulon Gardner defeated the seemingly invincible Aleksandr Karelin in Greco-Roman wrestling. Karelin, known as the “Russian Bear,” had dominated the sport for over a decade with a remarkable 13-year undefeated streak. He had won gold medals in the 1988, 1992, and 1996 Olympics, and his opponents had struggled to even score points against him. Gardner, a relatively unknown American wrestler, reached the final and managed to outmaneuver Karelin to win the gold medal by just one point. This unexpected victory not only secured Gardner’s place in Olympic history but also ended Karelin’s legendary streak.
Nigeria vs. Argentina (1996 Atlanta Olympics)
The 1996 Atlanta Olympics witnessed a groundbreaking upset in football when Nigeria’s underdog team triumphed over Argentina in the final. Nigeria, a team not widely recognized on the global stage, had made its way through Group C, defeating notable teams like Brazil and Mexico. Their journey culminated in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Argentina in the final, marking a historic moment for Nigerian football. This win was celebrated as one of the greatest achievements in Nigerian sports and a remarkable underdog victory in Olympic history.
Billy Mills (1964 Tokyo Olympics)
Billy Mills’ gold medal in the 10,000 meters at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics remains one of the most surprising upsets in the history of track and field. Mills, an American athlete, competed against world record holder Ron Clarke, defending champion Pyotr Bolotnikov, and other elite runners. Despite not having new shoes until the night before the race, Mills delivered an extraordinary performance, finishing with a time of 28:24.4, nearly 50 seconds faster than his previous best. His victory not only earned him gold but also made him the first and only American to win the 10,000 meters.
Kenteris (2000 Sydney Olympics)
Another remarkable upset occurred in the 200 meters at the 2000 Sydney Olympics when Kenteris achieved an unexpected victory. His time of 20.09 seconds stunned the world, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of the Games and solidifying his place in Olympic history.
These upsets highlight the essence of the Olympics: moments of greatness and surprise that transcend expectations and create unforgettable memories.
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