The Century’s Iconic Female Athletes

Nastia Liukin

Initially, Nastia Liukin tied the record for most medals won by an American gymnast in a single Olympic Games, securing five medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. This feat was later eclipsed by Simone Biles, who captured six medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics, solidifying their places among the century’s iconic female athletes.

In addition to her Olympic success, Liukin is a five-time all-around U.S. national champion. She attempted a comeback for the 2012 Olympics but did not make the team and subsequently retired. Today, she promotes gymnastics through the annual Nastia Liukin Cup, supporting the next generation of gymnasts.