Cuban Greco-Roman wrestler Mijain Lopez wins record fifth straight gold, and then retires
Mijain Lopez has gone out on top.
The 41-year-old Cuban defeated Yasmani Acosta Fernandez of Chile 6-0 in the 130-kilogram final at the Paris Olympics on Tuesday to win his fifth consecutive gold medal in Greco-Roman wrestling.
He's the first Olympic athlete to win gold in the same event at five consecutive Games, and the first wrestler to win five gold medals.
“What's great is the joy,” Lopez said through a translator. “It was a result that I was craving, but also for the whole world and my country. So happy to reach the Olympic elite. The reward of a lifetime of working hard with the help of everyone and my family. It is my biggest win.”
Following the match, Lopez placed his shoes in the center of the mat, symbolizing his retirement. He first appeared at the Summer Olympics in 2004, when he finished fifth. Now, he's ready to pass the torch.
“I have a lot of inspiration for all the young people that come to me for guidance," he said. «I have a lot of inspiration to give to the world. I would like to educate the younger generations.”
Shortly after winning this gold medal, Lopez embraced Acosta Fernandez, a Cuban who moved to Chile to give himself a better chance of competing in the big events.
Acosta Fernandez is the first wrestling medalist for Chile. He said he didn't mind being a part of history.
“I feel a mix of emotions,» he said. «I wanted to win gold, but at the same time, not so much because it's Mijain, a legend in wrestling worldwide.”
As Lopez continued to celebrate, jubilant fans clapped in
