Agnes Keleti, who survived the Holocaust and became the oldest Olympic medal winner, has passed away at the age of 103. Her death on Thursday in Budapest was reported by the Hungarian state news agency, following a critical hospitalization due to pneumonia that began on December 25.
Keleti's illustrious gymnastics career included an impressive total of 10 Olympic medals, five of which were gold, won during the 1952 Helsinki Games and the 1956 Melbourne Games. She triumphed over the tragic loss of her father and many relatives to become one of the most celebrated Jewish athletes in Olympic history.
Born as Agnes Klein in Budapest in 1921, her professional journey was severely impacted by World War II and the cancellation of both the 1940 and 1944 Olympics. In 1941, her Jewish heritage forced her off her gymnastics team, and she entered hiding in the rural areas of Hungary, where she survived by adopting a false identity and working as a maid.
While her mother and sister managed to survive, aided by the heroic actions of Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg, Keleti's father and numerous other family members were victims of the Holocaust, with over half a million Hungarian Jews perishing in Nazi death camps and through the actions of Hungarian Nazi collaborators.
After the war ended, Keleti aimed to compete in the 1948 London Olympics, but an ankle injury just before the event prevented her participation. She finally made her Olympic debut at the age of 31 in 1952, claiming a gold in the floor exercise, along with a silver and two bronzes. At the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, she achieved remarkable success, winning four golds and two silvers.
During the Melbourne Games, at 35, she became the oldest gold medalist in gymnastics history coinciding with the Soviet Union's invasion of Hungary. Choosing to remain in Australia, she sought political asylum and later moved to Israel, where she served as a trainer and coached the Israeli Olympic gymnastics team until the 1990s.
10 Comments
Karamba
It's crucial to remember and celebrate her achievements, especially considering the underrepresentation of Jewish athletes throughout history.
Matzomaster
She defied all odds to become one of the most decorated Olympians ever. Her story should inspire generations to come.
Rotfront
It's amazing how she turned tragedy into triumph. Her Olympic achievements are a testament to the power of hope and the human will to overcome adversity.
Karamba
Keleti's story proves that age is no barrier to achieving greatness. It's an inspiration for older athletes who continue to pursue their dreams.
Matzomaster
Her life teaches us the importance of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of excellence regardless of the challenges we face.
Raphael
It's important to keep her memory alive and share her story with future generations, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire and empower others.
Leonardo
Her story reminds us to never give up, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Comandante
Not only is she a sports legend, but she also represents the courage and perseverance of Holocaust survivors.
Habibi
While her achievements deserve recognition, it's essential to remember that her success doesn't erase the brutal history of the Holocaust or the ongoing struggles against discrimination and injustice.
Coccinella
She fought against unimaginable hardship to achieve her dreams. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit's strength and potential.