Paris Olympics: history makers – 5 athletes who did it first for homeland and posterity
- These super achievers won the country’s first gold medal in their sport, or were the first to do so more than once – or, in one case, 5 times
While many athletes compete with the goal of standing on the Olympic podium, some are able to achieve something even more remarkable: they make history for their homelands.
Whether it’s becoming the first athlete from their nation to win a medal in a certain event, or setting a new national record, these breakthroughs are a reminder that anything is possible.
Let’s dive into the stories of some Olympic trailblazers in Paris and honour the pioneers who paved the way for future generations of athletes.
Zheng Qinwen: the first tennis singles finalist from China
At just 21 years old, Zheng Qinwen etched her name in the history book when she became the first Chinese tennis player to clinch Olympic gold in the singles event. Her triumph came on the clay courts of Roland Garros, the iconic venue that hosts the annual French Open tournament.
This milestone not only marked career-defining fulfilment for Zheng, but also signalled a potential shift in Chinese tennis.
Zheng’s path to gold was not easy, as she had to overcome the reigning French Open champion, Polish superstar Iga Swiatek, in the semi-final. However, Zheng proved more than up to the challenge, defeating Swiatek before clinching the gold medal with a straight-sets victory over Croatia’s Donna Vekic in the final.
Carlos Yulo: Philippines’ first double gold medallist
Carlos Yulo’s triumph in the men’s floor exercise at the Paris Olympics brought only the second Olympic gold medal in the country’s history. The 24-year-old gymnast broke down in tears after matching the accomplishment of weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, who won the first gold at the delayed 2020 Tokyo Games.
