Joyner-Kersee, Jackie
1962- · Contribution: 1988-1992
Widely considered one of the greatest multi-event track and field athletes in history
Portraits are AI-generated interpretations, not photographs.
Impact on the world
Won Olympic gold medals in the heptathlon at both the 1988 and 1992 Olympics, setting a heptathlon world record that stood for decades, and is widely regarded by sportswriters and fellow athletes as one of the greatest female athletes of the 20th century across any sport.
Life & background
A multi-event athlete who excelled in both the heptathlon and the long jump, Joyner-Kersee won Olympic gold in the heptathlon at the 1988 Seoul and 1992 Barcelona Games, setting a heptathlon world record that stood for decades as one of track and field's most enduring marks. Sports Illustrated named her the greatest female athlete of the 20th century.
Sources
- Encyclopædia Britannica; USA Track & Field; Team USA (U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame)
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