The Winter Olympics began nearly 100 years ago in Chamonix, France, and since 1924 we’ve seen many inspiring performances and dramatic moments. Here are the ones we remember the most.
In 1980, a US hockey team made up of college players and amateurs upset the powerhouse Soviet team that was heavily favored to win the country’s sixth gold medal in seven Olympics. The Americans’ 4-3 win was dubbed the “Miracle on Ice,” recognized as the No. 1 sports moment of the 20th century by Sports Illustrated.
In 1980, the Americans’ 4-3 victory came in front of a home crowd in Lake Placid, New York. This monumental event propelled them to defeat Finland two days later, securing the gold medal amid the exhilarating backdrop of winter sports.
Just six weeks before the 1994 Winter Olympics, US figure skater Nancy Kerrigan was attacked, sparking a significant controversy in sports history. Despite the setback, she secured a silver medal while her rival faced a lifetime ban from the sport.
This shocking event created tension leading up to the Games, but Kerrigan’s resilience highlighted the spirit of competition. She overcame her injuries and ultimately achieved medal success, making a lasting impact on figure skating.
While competing in the downhill at the 1998 Games, Austrian Hermann Maier survived a shocking crash. Remarkably, he returned to claim victory in both the giant slalom and the super-G events.
The “Herminator” not only showcased incredible skill but also demonstrated the tenacity and spirit essential in overcoming challenges in high-stakes competitions.
Snowboarding soared to new heights during the 2010 Winter Olympics, with Shaun White dazzling audiences. His extraordinary performance including a double McTwist 1260 solidified his position as a legend in the sport.
With his innovative maneuvers, White not only defended his title but also inspired future generations of snowboarders looking to push the limits of the sport.
In a stunning turn of events during the 2002 Games, Steven Bradbury, who was trailing, clinched gold when all of his competitors crashed, marking a historic victory for Australia.
Bradbury’s unexpected triumph emphasized the unpredictable nature of sports, proving that perseverance and a bit of luck can lead to remarkable outcomes.
In 2002, the figure skating world was rocked by a scoring scandal involving Jamie Salé and David Pelletier, which highlighted corruption in the judging process.
This incident not only affected the athletes but also prompted substantial changes in the scoring system of figure skating, ensuring fairness and transparency in future competitions.
A significant moment unfolded during the 2018 Games when athletes from North and South Korea united, symbolizing hope for peace through sports.
This historic collaboration reminded us of the power of sports to bridge divides and promote unity on the global stage.
Michael “Eddie” Edwards emerged as a motivational figure at the 1988 Games, epitomizing the spirit of the underdog despite finishing last in his events.
His journey captivated audiences, showing that passion and determination can leave a lasting legacy beyond mere medal counts.
Sidney Crosby scored the defining “golden goal” in the overtime thriller of the 2010 gold medal game against the United States, solidifying Canada’s hockey legacy.
This memorable moment not only showcased athletic prowess but also ignited national pride in the host country.
Eric Heiden’s extraordinary performance at the 1980 Games, where he won five gold medals, set a record that still stands today.
Heiden’s dominance in speed skating embodied the grit and determination that defines the Winter Olympics.
Ester Ledecká’s groundbreaking achievement of winning golds in both snowboarding and alpine skiing showcased incredible versatility and talent.
Her accomplishments not only made history but also inspired countless athletes to embrace diversity in sports.
Peggy Fleming’s victory in 1968 marked a pivotal moment for US figure skating, representing resilience and excellence in a challenging era.
This win not only uplifted the spirit of American athletes but also paved the way for future successes in figure skating.
In 2002, Vonetta Flowers’ victory in bobsledding was a historic moment that broke barriers and inspired athletes across the globe.
Her achievement emphasized the importance of representation in sports, showcasing the potential of diverse athletes.
Dan Jansen’s emotional triumph in 1994, after overcoming personal tragedy, became a symbol of resilience and hope.
This heartfelt story resonated deeply and underlined the profound connection athletes have with their journey.
Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean’s unforgettable performance in 1984 captivated the world with their artistic brilliance.
Their remarkable score not only captivated audiences but also set a new standard for figure skating performances worldwide.
Cross-country skier Marit Bjørgen’s unparalleled achievements ensure her legacy as the greatest performer in Winter Olympic history.
Bjørgen’s continued excellence exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and dedication inherent in winter sports athletes.
