Stories of courage, near-misses, and resilience—athletes who came close to Olympic glory but still inspired generations worldwide.
The Olympics are often remembered for gold medals and record-breaking victories. But behind every podium finish, there are also stories of athletes who came incredibly close—just seconds, grams, or points away from glory. These athletes may not have taken home the top prize, but their determination, courage, and unforgettable performances continue to inspire the world.
Vinesh Phogat (India) – Wrestling
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Vinesh Phogat faced heartbreak when she was disqualified from the women’s 50 kg freestyle final for being just 100 grams over the weight limit. She had overdone it—she basically starved herself and spent countless hours in the sauna just to make weight. The disqualification would mean she would no longer have the chance to fight for gold; that was what her coach said, but she was a brave woman, and all the millions of fans and athletes around the world had all praised her. Now, she stands as a role model, embodying endurance and strength.
Lakshya Sen (India) – Badminton
Lakshya Sen made history as India’s first male shuttler to reach the Olympic semi-finals. He fought hard but could not land on the podium, losing the bronze medal match against Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia and finishing fourth. Regardless of the bronze medal match loss, his effort put Indian badminton on the map globally, and he should be very proud of that.
Mirabai Chanu (India) – Weightlifting
Mirabai Chanu lifted a total of 199 kg in the women’s 49 kg category at Paris 2024. She narrowly missed the bronze, finishing just 1 kg short in 4th place. She missed the podium by just 1 kg, which is crushing, and you could see that from the way she fought in an event that showed how close an Olympic battle could be. Her effort is a lasting reminder of dedication and effort and shows the strength and dedication of true champions.
Lilly King (USA) – Swimming
American swimmer Lilly King finished 4th in the 100m breaststroke, missing an Olympic medal by just 0.01 seconds. It shows that determination and execution are important, and for us two, it will still be a proud moment to be 4th and a recognition that historical significance has been achieved with just a fraction of a second.
Peter Norman (Australia) – Sprinting
Peter Norman won the silver medal in the 200m event at the 1968 Mexico Olympics, but what made this story historical was that he took a stand for and with Tommie Smith and John Carlos and their Black Power salute salute which had a repercussion for him – backlash and exclusion from the 1972 Olympics. Norman is remembered not only for being an athlete but also as someone of character who stood for equality.
Polin Belisle (Belize) – Marathon
Polin Belisle came last in the marathon for Belize at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Yet, her determination to finish exemplifies the true Olympic spirit: sheer courage. The Olympics is about medals, but it is also about character and perseverance.
Karnam Malleswari (India) – Weightlifting
Karnam Malleswari was the first Indian Olympian to win a medal, a bronze at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. She always wanted a gold medal, but she inspired countless generations of talent, and her bronze will always remain a proud moment in India’s sporting history.
Sueo Ōe (Japan) – Pole Vault
Sueo Ōe earned bronze in pole vaulting at the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games. Subsequently, he also earned silver, sharing it with someone else due to a decision made by team officials. His experience indicates that odd things happen at the Olympics, and they can dictate things on the field but also decisions made long before and things beyond an athlete’s control!
Alice Arden (USA) – High Jump
Alice Arden competed in the high jump at the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games and finished ninth overall. What is interesting about Alice’s individual story is that her son, Russ Hodge, became an Olympian in 1964. Together they represent the Olympic spirit that is passed down through generations and the journey we all own in that regard.
Bob Pettit (USA) – Basketball
Bob Pettit is a legendary player from the era of great basketball players for his time with the Milwaukee Hawks. He continues to carry the legacy and history of the NBA today, even if his name gets a little lost in the ranks of the true players of the game! The story of Bob is a reminder that not all the stories of great people offer the same significance long after they contribute to their sport!
These athletes demonstrate that Olympic glory is not only based on attainable medals! Sometimes losing by 1 second, or 1 kg, or even 100 grams can make a story that is equally important! These courageous stories matter in that they demonstrate tenacity, endurance, and never giving up on your dreams—so other generations can follow suit!
