katie ledecky, Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps.

The 15 Greatest Olympic Performances of All Time – Ranked

June 12, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

The Olympic Games have always been more than just a showcase of athletic ability—they are a stage for history, courage, and human triumph. From powerful political statements to seemingly impossible feats of strength, speed, and endurance, the Olympics have produced moments that transcend sport and leave a lasting impact on the world.

In this article, we count down the 15 most iconic Olympic performances of all time—athletes and moments that not only defined their Games, but also inspired generations to come.

15. Katie Ledecky – Rio 2016

Katie Ledecky dominated the pool in Rio, winning four gold medals and one silver in freestyle events. Her victory in the 800m freestyle, where she finished over 11 seconds ahead of the field, was especially jaw-dropping. She set two world records during the Games and confirmed her status as one of swimming’s all-time greats.

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14. Oscar Pistorius – London 2012

Pistorius made history by becoming the first double-amputee to compete in the Olympic Games. Nicknamed the “Blade Runner,” he ran in both the 400m and the 4x400m relay. His presence on the Olympic track marked a major step forward in representation and inclusion for athletes with disabilities.

13. Eric Moussambani – Sydney 2000

Known as “Eric the Eel,” Moussambani from Equatorial Guinea had only trained for a few months before competing in the 100m freestyle. He swam alone in his heat and finished far behind the Olympic standard, but his determination and spirit captured hearts worldwide. He symbolized the Olympic ideal of participation over victory.

12. Torvill and Dean – Sarajevo 1984

christopher dean, jayne torvill — Entertainment Press / Shutterstock.com

British ice dancers Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean delivered a flawless performance to Ravel’s “Boléro,” receiving 12 perfect 6.0 scores. Their mesmerizing routine captivated the judges and audience alike. It remains one of the most artistically celebrated routines in Olympic figure skating history.

11. Tommie Smith & John Carlos – Mexico City 1968

After winning gold and bronze in the 200m, Smith and Carlos raised black-gloved fists during the medal ceremony to protest racial injustice. Their silent act of defiance sparked global attention and cost them dearly, but it became an enduring symbol of resistance. It remains one of the most powerful political moments in Olympic history.

10. Bob Beamon – Mexico City 1968

Beamon produced the leap of a lifetime in the long jump, landing at 8.90 meters and breaking the world record by an astonishing 55 centimeters. The record stood for 23 years. His “Beamonesque” jump stunned the athletics world and redefined what was considered humanly possible.

9. “Miracle on Ice” – Lake Placid 1980

A group of amateur American college hockey players shocked the world by defeating the mighty Soviet Union in the semifinals. The underdogs’ 4–3 victory became a symbol of national pride during the Cold War. The USA went on to win the gold, but that semifinal remains the stuff of legend.

8. Abebe Bikila – Rome 1960

Bikila won the Olympic marathon running barefoot through the streets of Rome. He became the first black African to win Olympic gold and repeated the feat four years later wearing shoes. His victory opened the door for generations of African distance runners.

7. Kerri Strug – Atlanta 1996

With Team USA’s gymnastics gold on the line, Strug vaulted on an injured ankle to secure victory. Her landing—on one foot—became an unforgettable Olympic moment. Carried off by coach Béla Károlyi, her grit embodied the spirit of determination.

6. Cathy Freeman – Sydney 2000

Freeman lit the Olympic cauldron and then won gold in the 400m, uniting a nation. As an Aboriginal athlete, her victory symbolized progress and reconciliation. The roar of the crowd that night still echoes in Australian sports history.

5. Simone Biles – Rio 2016

Biles soared above the competition, winning four gold medals and a bronze with performances that redefined gymnastic excellence. Her power, precision, and poise set a new standard for the sport. She became a global icon and a role model for resilience and greatness.

4. Michael Phelps – Beijing 2008

Phelps achieved the seemingly impossible by winning eight gold medals at a single Olympics. He broke seven world records in the process and became the most decorated Olympian of all time. His versatility and stamina across multiple strokes were unprecedented.

3. Usain Bolt – Beijing 2008

Bolt stunned the world by setting new world records in the 100m and 200m, cruising past the finish line with unmatched swagger. His charisma and dominance turned sprinting into a global spectacle. Bolt’s performances redefined what it meant to be fast.

2. Nadia Comăneci – Montreal 1976

At just 14 years old, Comăneci achieved the first perfect 10 in Olympic gymnastics history. The scoreboard wasn’t even equipped to display it. She scored seven perfect 10s in total and revolutionized the sport with her grace and precision.

1. Jesse Owens – Berlin 1936

Owens won four gold medals in Hitler’s Germany, shattering the Nazi myth of Aryan supremacy. His triumph in the 100m, 200m, long jump, and 4x100m relay remains one of the most powerful moments in sports history. Owens’ legacy endures as a symbol of courage, dignity, and excellence.