
Lewis was a dominant sprinter and long jumper who topped the world rankings in the 100 m, 200 m and long jump events frequently from 1981 to the early 1990s, was named Athlete of the Year by Track and Field News in 1982, 1983 and 1984, and set world records in the 100 m, 4 x 100 m and 4 x 200 m relays. His 65 consecutive victories in the long jump achieved over a span of 10 years is one of the sport’s longest undefeated streaks.
His lifetime accomplishments have led to numerous accolades, including being voted "Sportsman of the Century" by the International Olympic Committee and being named "Olympian of the Century" by the American sports magazine Sports Illustrated. He also helped transform track and field from its nominal amateur status to its current professional status, thus enabling athletes to have more lucrative and longer-lasting careers.
Achievement
Olympic GamesGold
1984 - Los Angeles - 100m, 200m, 4x100m relay, long jump1988 - Seoul - 100m, long jump
1992 - Barcelona - 4x100m relay, long jump1996 - Atlanta - long jump
Silver
1988 - 200m
World Championships
Gold1983 - Helsinski - 100m, 4x100m relay, long jump
1987 - Rome - 100m, 4x100m relay, long jump1991 - Tokyo - 100m, 4x100m relay
Silver
1991 - Tokyo - long jumpBronze
1993 - Stuttgart - 200m