The only American to win the Olympic all-around — the most controversial gold medal in Olympic gymnastics history.
Paul Elbert Hamm was born in Waukesha, Wisconsin in 1982. He won the 2004 Olympic all-around gold medal — the first American man to do so. His medal was awarded following a scoring controversy involving the Korean competitor Yang Tae-young that was reviewed by FIG and the IOC — both upheld the result. His comeback on the final apparatus — a high bar routine after falling on the vault — from twelfth place to gold is considered the greatest individual comeback in Olympic gymnastics history. He and his twin brother Morgan both competed in gymnastics professionally.
Best Known For
Olympic Gold (2004 all-around)
Honours & Achievements
Career Honours
- Olympic Gold (2004 all-around)
- World Champion 2003
Career Journey
Timeline
1982
👶 Born in Waukesha, Wisconsin
2008
🏁 Retired from professional sport
🏆 Olympic Gold (2004 all-around)
🏆 World Champion 2003