HOF Athlete | Page 5 of 13 | U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

Wilma Rudolph

Despite being told she would never walk again, Wilma Rudolph won three track and field gold medals at the Rome 1960 Olympic Games.

David Robinson

David Robinson did not stand out on the basketball court until starring at the Naval Academy. He played in three Olympic Games, winning two gold medals and one bronze.

Bob Richards

Bob Richards became the first man to win multiple Olympic gold medals in the pole vault. He was the first athlete pictured on the front of a Wheaties cereal box.

Mary Lou Retton

Mary Lou Retton scored perfect 10s on the floor exercise and vault to win the individual all-around gold medal at the Los Angeles 1984 Olympic Games.

J. Michael Plumb

Equestrian J. Michael Plumb competed in seven Olympics, more than any other American athlete, winning six medals: two gold and four silver.

Floyd Patterson

It was during his time at reform school that Floyd Patterson became interested in boxing. At 17 years old, he won an Olympic gold medal and went on to a prolific professional career.

Charley Paddock

After serving in the U.S. Army in World War I, Charley Paddock participated in three Olympic Games, winning two gold medals and two silver. He died in a plane crash while serving in World War II.

Jesse Owens

Jesse Owens won four gold medals in the Berlin 1936 Olympic Games.

Al Oerter

Al Oerter overcame any obstacle in his path to win four consecutive Olympic gold medals in the discus, setting an Olympic record every time.

Parry O’Brien

After quitting his college football team, Parry O'Brien became the most dominant shotputter of his time, winning 116 consecutive meets, including two Olympic gold medals.

Hall of Fame Category: HOF Athlete