Carl Lewis

Carl Lewis was an American track and field athlete. He was born in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1961. He won nine Olympic gold medals across four Olympic Games. He was one of the greatest sprinters and long jumpers of all time.

Early Life

Lewis grew up in a family of athletes. Both his parents were track coaches. He showed incredible speed as a teenager. He attended the University of Houston and quickly became a star.

College athlete Carl Lewis in midair during a long jump.
College athlete Carl Lewis in midair during a long jump. (University of Houston / Wikimedia Commons)

Big Achievements

Lewis won four gold medals at the 1984 Olympics, matching Jesse Owens. He won the long jump at four straight Olympics. He set world records in the 100 meters. He was named Olympian of the Century by Sports Illustrated.

Fun Facts

  • Lewis won the Olympic long jump four times in a row.
  • He was named Olympian of the Century.
  • He matched Jesse Owens's feat of four gold medals at a single Olympics.

Did You Know?

Lewis competed at the highest level for nearly 20 years. He won his last Olympic gold medal in 1996 at age 35 in the long jump. His consistency across four Olympic Games is unmatched.