Two decades after his debut at the Athens 2004 Games, Mijaín López brought the curtains down on his unparalleled Olympic career this Tuesday. Emotions ran high as he knelt, placed his wrestling shoes in the center of the mat, and shed tears, overwhelmed by a whirlwind of feelings.
In the match that secured his fifth Olympic gold medal, the "Giant of Herradura" showcased his invincible demeanor and rugged nature. However, his indomitable spirit softened after his victory over his compatriot Yasmani Acosta (6-0), now representing Chile but still a source of pride for Cuba.
With a slow stride, López, dressed in a tight red singlet, returned to the competitive surface, delivering a legendary farewell to the delight of thousands at the Champ de Mars Arena and many more watching him become the only athlete in history to win the same individual event five times under the Olympic rings.
A Legacy Like No Other
To mention Mijaín López is to speak of a living legend, one chosen by glory. It’s understandable why he is considered the "GOAT" (Greatest of All Time) in wrestling. Along with his five Olympic titles, he boasts five world championships and four continental multi-sport event titles.
His only Olympic defeat occurred on August 24, 2004, against Russian Kashan Baroev. After that, it was all smiles and celebrations in Beijing 2008, London 2012, Rio de Janeiro 2016, Tokyo 2020, and now Paris 2024. Unbeatable.
Don’t be afraid to say it: the Cuban is one of the greatest athletes in history. His achievements back it up. A man who arrived in France without competing since 2021, always appearing as if the effort was just a stroll near the Eiffel Tower.
Los Angeles 2028 will miss him... the Olympic movement will miss him. Athletes of his caliber are not easily forgotten. Even Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee, couldn’t resist congratulating him. He is to wrestling what Michael Jordan is to basketball; what Messi, Pelé, or Maradona are to soccer; what Usain Bolt is to track and field; what Michael Phelps is to swimming.
At 41 years old, he left no room for doubt. He remains as strong as ever. But he has stated he will not continue, and his words are to be respected. It’s time to fill the seats and pay homage: a king bids us farewell.
Mijaín López's Historic Olympic Career
Here are some frequently asked questions about Mijaín López's remarkable journey and achievements in Olympic wrestling.
How many Olympic gold medals has Mijaín López won?
Mijaín López has won five Olympic gold medals, making him the only athlete to win the same individual event five times.
Who did Mijaín López defeat in his final Olympic match?
In his final Olympic match, Mijaín López defeated Yasmani Acosta, a fellow Cuban who represents Chile.
What other significant titles has Mijaín López won?
Besides his five Olympic gold medals, Mijaín López has also won five world championships and four continental multi-sport event titles.