Jesse Owens, an African American track and field athlete, defied Adolf Hitler's belief in Aryan supremacy by winning four gold medals in the 100m, 200m, long jump, and 4x100m relay, making a powerful statement against racism and discrimination.
Jesse Owens at the 1936 Berlin Olympics
On February 22, 1980, during the medal round of the men's hockey tournament at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York,
The Soviet Union, a four-time defending gold medalist, was heavily favored to win the gold medal, but the United States upset them and won 4-3.
The Miracle on Ice - 1980 Winter Olympics
The Black Power Salute - 1968 Mexico City Olympics
African American sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists in a silent protest against racial injustice and inequality during the medal ceremony for the 200m race, sparking controversy and initiating discussions on human rights and activism.
Kerri Strug's Vault - 1996 Atlanta Olympics
Gymnast Kerri Strug secured the gold medal for the United States women's gymnastics team despite suffering a painful ankle injury during her final vault, displaying remarkable courage and determination that became an iconic moment in Olympic history.
Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt cemented his status as one of the greatest athletes of all time by winning gold medals in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay at three consecutive Olympic Games, setting world records and electrifying fans with his speed and charisma.
Usain Bolt's Triple-Triple - 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympics
The Dream Team - 1992 Barcelona Olympics
The United States men's basketball team, featuring NBA superstars such as Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird, dominated the competition and captured the gold medal, showcasing the dominance of American basketball on the global stage.
Cathy Freeman's Gold Medal Run - 2000 Sydney Olympics
Australian sprinter Cathy Freeman captivated her home country by winning the gold medal in the 400m race, becoming the first Indigenous Australian to win an individual Olympic gold medal.
Nadia Comăneci's Perfect 10 - 1976 Montreal Olympics
Romanian gymnast Nadia Comăneci made history by scoring the first-ever perfect 10 in Olympic gymnastics, achieving the highest possible score on the uneven bars and vault
The Marathon of Hope - 1980 Moscow Olympics
Tanzanian runner John Stephen Akhwari epitomized the Olympic spirit of perseverance and determination by finishing last in the marathon despite suffering a severe leg injury, inspiring admiration and respect for his indomitable spirit.