Paris Olympics: Ireland’s Daniel Wiffen Wins First Olympic Gold in 28 Years

Daniel Wiffen made history for Ireland by securing the nation’s first Olympic gold medal in swimming in 28 years.

The 23-year-old swimmer achieved this milestone by winning the 800-meter freestyle on Tuesday, 30th July, 2024 night at the Paris Games.

Emotions were high as Wiffen stood on the podium with tears streaming down his face, the Irish flag draped over his shoulders, and the national anthem playing. Despite his studious appearance, marked by round glasses, Wiffen’s performance was anything but ordinary.

“I don’t normally cry, so I really hope nobody is going to see that,” Wiffen said after the race. “But it did come out of me, and it’s obviously just a special moment. I’ve never heard that national anthem from an Olympics before.”

Wiffen’s time of 7 minutes, 38.19 seconds was enough to beat Italy’s Gregorio Paltrinieri (7:39.38) and the defending Olympic champion Bobby Finke from the United States (7:38.75).

In addition to his Olympic success, Wiffen is also a content creator. “People should watch,” he said, referring to his YouTube channel where he blogs weekly about his training and competition routines.

Wiffen will have another chance to add to his medal count as he competes in the 1,500 meters later in the Paris Games.