As the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris fascinate global audiences, it’s an excellent time to recognize those who have made Olympic history. These 15 athletes competed in multiple Games, amassing an unforgettable number of medals while exhibiting exceptional skill and dedication on the grandest stage. Here’s a look at these record-breaking legends.
Michael Phelps
Without a doubt, Michael Phelps is the Olympic king. He has 28 medals, 23 of which were gold. He redefined what was possible with memorable moments like the 2008 Beijing Games, where he won eight golds. Phelps’ record-breaking achievements have inspired a generation of swimmers and made him a household name in sports.
Larisa Latynina
During an era when women in sports were fighting for recognition, Soviet gymnastics icon Larisa Latynina dazzled the world. From 1956 to 1964, she earned 18 Olympic medals—9 gold, five silver, and four bronze—across three Games. Her groundbreaking accomplishments held the record for the most Olympic medals for nearly 50 years.
Marit Bjørgen
Breaking records on the snow with unmatched stamina and technique, Norwegian cross-country skier Marit Bjørgen claimed 15 medals across five Winter Games from 2002 to 2018. Her impressive tally includes eight gold, four silver, and three bronze. Her striking triumphs have solidified her legacy as the most successful Winter Olympian ever.
Nikolay Andrianov
With his extraordinary strength, Soviet gymnast Nikolay Andrianov became a symbol of excellence in the 1970s. Between 1972 and 1980, he prevailed in floor routines and rings, earning 15 medals (7 gold, five silver, and three bronze), solidifying his status as one of gymnastics’ most significant icons.
Katie Ledecky
Powerhouse long-distance swimmer Katie Ledecky has shattered previous records with her incredible effort. Her pool supremacy, which has garnered nine golds, four silvers, and one bronze, has enthralled people worldwide. Ledecky, who first appeared on the scene, still establishes her reputation as an unstoppable force in swimming.
Ole Einar Bjørndalen
Dubbed the “King of Biathlon,” Ole Einar Bjørndalen won 13 Olympic medals, including eight gold, across six Games. His unique ability to combine skiing speed and precision shooting distinguished him, giving him legendary status in winter sports and making him the most successful bi-athlete in Olympic history.
Boris Shakhlin
A master of the pommel horse and other apparatuses, Boris Shakhlin dominated gymnastics during the 1960s, collecting 13 Olympic medals, including seven golds. His extraordinary strength and technique set a high bar for future gymnasts, and this established him as legendary in the sport’s history.
Ireen Wüst
In addition to unequaled speed and stamina on the rink, Ireen Wüst is the most decorated speed skater in history. Having won 13 Olympic medals from 2006 to 2022, she competed in five Games, winning six gold, five silver, and two bronze medals. Her feats continue to inspire future skaters globally.
Edoardo Mangiarotti
The Italian swordsman Edoardo Mangiarotti, highly regarded in the fencing community, had an incredible four-decade career, including an unprecedented 13 Olympic medals. His supremacy in individual and team épée and foil competitions, along with his unequaled adaptability and skill, made him historical. He competed from 1936 to 1960.
Ono Takashi
Graceful yet powerful on the rings, the Japanese gymnast claimed 13 Olympic medals from 1952 to 1964. His impressive versatility across multiple apparatuses, including five golds, highlighted his strength and elegance. His remarkable performances in the 1950s and 60s solidified his legacy and continue to inspire future gymnasts.
Paavo Nurmi
Running through the history books, the “Flying Finn” captured nine golds among his 12 Olympic medals in middle and long-distance events. Dominating the 1920s with inspiring endurance, he also introduced innovative techniques. His victories transformed the sport and set a new benchmark for excellence in track and field.
Birgit Fischer
Birgit Fischer paddled her way to the top and collected 12 Olympic medals, including eight golds, over the course of 24 years. She was crowned the sport’s queen between 1980 and 2004 thanks to her incredible endurance and technical proficiency, which made her the most successful canoeist in Olympic history.
Bjørn Daehlie
From 1992 to 1998, Bjørn Daehlie, the Norwegian cross-country skier, crossed the finish line gracefully and won 12 Olympic medals, including eight golds. His steadfast dedication and astonishing consistency set new standards in the sport. He is regarded as one of the most well-known personalities in winter sports, notably in the 1990s.
Katō Sawao
Japan’s Golden Gymnast earned 12 Olympic medals, including eight gold, three silver, and one bronze, in the 1960s and 70s. He was an expert on the mats due to his poise and precision. Katō Sawao was instrumental in establishing Japan as a gymnastics superpower and remains a cornerstone of outstanding performance.
Jenny Thompson
Jenny Thompson made waves with her 12 Olympic swimming medals, establishing herself as one of the most successful female swimmers. She has eight gold medals, three silver medals, and one bronze. Her relay performances were critical to the US team’s triumph at several Olympics.
15 Record-Breaking Olympians with the Most Medals Ever