Cuban Sports Legend Mijaín López Celebrates Historic Olympic Win
Mijaín López poked his head out of the pilot’s cabin and waved a Cuban flag upon his return to the country on Monday.
The Unstoppable Force
The 41-year-old Cuban sports legend won his fifth consecutive gold medal in Greco-Roman wrestling at the Paris Olympics, becoming the first athlete to win a gold in the same event at five consecutive Games.
He’s also the first wrestler to win five gold medals.
Iconic Retirement
The feat became one of the most talked-about events of the Olympics when, following the match, López unlaced his shoes and placed them in the center of the mat, symbolizing his retirement.
López along with his fellow Cuban athletes were welcomed home on Monday evening with a special ceremony in Havana attended by President Miguel Díaz-Canel and family members.
Despite a disappointing showing at the Paris Games, Cuba has a rich legacy in the Olympic Games, winning more medals than any other Latin American country since 1900.
In track and field competitions, which were once a source of pride for the Caribbean nation, three Cuban native athletes won medals while representing other countries.
Mijaín López’s historic win is a testament to his dedication and skill, and cementing his place as one of the greatest Olympic athletes of all time.
As he embarks on this new chapter of his life, his remarkable achievements will continue to inspire future generations of Cuban athletes.
FAQs
- How many consecutive gold medals did Mijaín López win in Greco-Roman wrestling?
- What did López symbolize with his shoes?
- How many medals did Cuba win at the Paris Games?
- How many consecutive Olympic Games has Cuba participated in?
Five
His retirement from wrestling
Nine
Since 1900
