U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame Inductees: Class of 2025
COLORADO SPRINGS — The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee recently announced the inductees for the Class of 2025 of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Hall of Fame. Established in 1979, the Hall of Fame aims to "celebrate the achievements of America’s premier athletes in the modern Olympic and Paralympic Games." This year’s recognition brings together a dazzling array of athletes and contributors, continuing the tradition of honoring excellence in sports.
A Stellar Group of Finalists
The finalists included 15 Olympians, nine Paralympians, three Olympic teams, three Paralympic teams, six legends, three coaches, and three special contributors. The 2025 class comprises a diverse set of members: eight individual Olympic and Paralympic athletes, two teams, two legends, one coach, and one special contributor, showcasing a wealth of talent and dedication.
“We’re proud to welcome the Class of 2025 into the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame and to honor the extraordinary accomplishments they’ve made as representatives of Team USA,” stated USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland. She added that the induction celebrates not only the athletes’ remarkable achievements but also acknowledges the support networks that have helped them succeed.
Celebrated Athletes and Contributors
Steve Cash – Sled Hockey
A household name in sled hockey, Steve Cash is a three-time Paralympic gold medalist and five-time world champion. His advocacy for mental health awareness, particularly among elite athletes, complements his remarkable on-ice performances, creating a legacy that extends beyond the rink.
Gabby Douglas – Gymnastics
Gabby Douglas transformed gymnastics history by becoming the first Black woman to win the all-around gold medal. Her achievements at the London Olympics, where she captured both the all-around and team gold medals, solidified her status as an icon in the sport.
Anita DeFrantz – Legend: Rowing
Anita DeFrantz broke barriers in rowing at the 1976 Montreal Games as the first Black woman to compete and earn a medal in the women’s eight event. Her advocacy for diversity within the International Olympic Committee makes her a significant figure in Olympic history.
Allyson Felix – Track & Field
With 31 total championships, including 11 Olympic medals, Allyson Felix is the epitome of excellence in track and field. She not only excels on the track but also continues to influence the Olympic movement as a member of the International Olympic Committee’s Athletes’ Commission.
Serena Williams – Tennis
Acknowledged as one of the greatest athletes of all time, Serena Williams boasts four Olympic gold medals and 23 Grand Slam singles titles. Her influence stretches beyond tennis as she advocates for equality in sports.
Flo Hyman – Legend: Indoor Volleyball
Flo Hyman is remembered for leading Team USA through the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games boycott and later winning a silver medal in 1984. Her legacy is commemorated annually on National Girls and Women in Sports Day.
Kerri Walsh Jennings – Beach Volleyball
Kerri Walsh Jennings is a three-time Olympic gold medalist whose career is marked by incredible resilience and perseverance through numerous injuries. Holding records for consecutive match wins and tournament victories, she remains a dominant figure in beach volleyball.
Mike Krzyzewski – Coach: Basketball
Known widely as Coach K, Mike Krzyzewski has guided Team USA basketball to three consecutive Olympic gold medals, reshaping its dominance after a challenging bronze finish in 2004.
Phil Knight – Special Contributor: Nike Founder
Phil Knight, the founder of Nike, has played a pivotal role in supporting the Olympic movement, providing Team USA with cutting-edge athletic gear and promoting excellence in sports.
Bode Miller – Alpine Skiing
Bode Miller stands as a formidable name in alpine skiing, being the only U.S. male skier to win World Cup races in all disciplines. His Olympic collection includes six medals, underscoring his dominance in the sport.
Marla Runyan – Para Track and Field
Marla Runyan has an inspiring history as one of the few athletes to compete in both the Olympic and Paralympic Games. She has secured six Paralympic medals, five of which are gold, and continues to impact her community as an advocate for the visually impaired.
Teams and Contributions
2010 Four-man Bobsled Team
This exceptional team, consisting of Curtis Tomasevicz, Steve Mesler, Justin Olsen, and driver Steven Holcomb, ended a 62-year medal drought for Team USA by clinching gold at the Vancouver Games, showcasing the spirit of teamwork and tenacity.
2004 Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team
This team made history by winning its first gold medal in 22 years during the Athens Games, defeating established teams and setting the stage for future successes.
The hall of fame induction ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, July 12, at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum (USOPM) in Colorado Springs, also known as Olympic City, USA. The USOPM will host a Fan Festival from July 10 – 13, featuring special events and athlete appearances celebrating Team USA.
For more detailed information about the finalists, visit the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s official website.