The Youngest Olympic Gold Medalists in History

By Jayson Panganiban February 08, 2024 05:43

Photo by Getty Images

The Olympics have been a stage for showcasing incredible talent and skill, and over the years, there have been several remarkable athletes who have achieved great success at a very young age. Let's delve into the stories of the youngest individuals to win gold medals at the Olympic Games.

Marjorie Gestring - 1936 Berlin Summer Games

Marjorie Gestring, an American diver, holds the distinction of being the youngest person ever to win an Olympic gold medal. At the tender age of 13 years and 268 days, she made history by clinching the gold in the 3-meter springboard diving event at the 1936 Berlin Summer Olympics. Her achievement remains unparalleled, and she continues to be celebrated as the second-youngest Olympic gold medalist as of 2024. Gestring's victory was particularly notable, given her young age and the stiff competition she faced. Although she attempted to qualify for the 1948 Games, she was unable to secure a spot on the U.S. team.

Achievements

Olympic Gold Medal: 1936 Berlin - 3 m springboard
National Titles:
- 1938 US Nationals: 3 m springboard - Gold
- 1939 US Nationals: 3 m springboard - Gold
- 1940 US Nationals: 3 m springboard - Gold

Kim Yun-Mi - 1994 Lillehammer Winter Games

Another outstanding young athlete, Kim Yun-Mi from South Korea, made history by becoming the youngest Olympic gold medalist at the 1994 Lillehammer Winter Olympics. Aged just 13 years and 85 days, Kim achieved this remarkable feat by winning gold in the 3,000-meter short-track speed skating relay event. Her outstanding performance not only secured her a place in the record books but also led to a revision in the age limit set by the International Skating Union, which was raised to 15 years in response to her historic win.

Klaus Zerta - 1960 Rome Summer Games

Klaus Zerta, a German rower, etched his name in Olympic history as the youngest confirmed male athlete to win a gold medal at the Summer Olympics. At the age of 13 years and 283 days, Zerta achieved this feat at the 1960 Rome Olympics in the coxed pairs rowing event. His remarkable accomplishment at such a young age is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his sport.

Momiji Nishiya - 2020 Tokyo Summer Games

Momiji Nishiya, a Japanese skateboarder, became the youngest gold medalist for Japan at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics. Aged 13, she secured the gold medal in the women’s street skating competition, showcasing extraordinary skill and determination. Her victory not only marked a historic moment for Japanese skateboarding but also highlighted her exceptional talent at such a young age.

These exceptional athletes have not only left an indelible mark on Olympic history but have also inspired countless individuals around the world with their extraordinary achievements at such young ages. Their dedication, skill, and unwavering determination serve as a testament to the incredible talent that can emerge on the Olympic stage.

the youngest Olympic gold medalists have not only achieved extraordinary success at a remarkably young age but have also left an enduring legacy in the annals of Olympic history. Their remarkable feats continue to inspire future generations of athletes and serve as a reminder of the boundless potential that resides within young sports enthusiasts.