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USAs 1972 Olympics 400m runners (left to right) Vince Matthews, John Smith, and Wayne Collett
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USAs 1972 Olympics 400m runners (left to right) Vince Matthews, John Smith, and Wayne Collett
Athletics - 1972 Munich Olympics - Mens 400m Final
USAs (left to right) Vince Matthews, John Smith, and Wayne Collett in the Olympiastadion, Munich, West Germany. Pre-race favourite Smith pulled up injured early in the race while Matthews took gold and Collett silver.
Unfortunately, the US Success was tarnished by the suspension of Matthews and Collett by the IOC after the medal ceremony, where they were talking to each other and fidgeting while the US national anthem played, leading many to believe it was a Black Power protest like that of Tommie Smith and John Carlos in 1968
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the history of the 1972 Olympics. The image showcases three remarkable athletes, Vince Matthews, John Smith, and Wayne Collett, standing side by side on the track at Olympiastadion in Munich, West Germany. As they prepare for the Men's 400m Final, tension fills the air. Tragically, just moments into the race, pre-race favorite John Smith suffered an injury that dashed his hopes of victory. However, his fellow countrymen continued to push forward with unwavering determination. Vince Matthews displayed exceptional skill and resilience as he sprinted towards gold medal glory while Wayne Collett showcased incredible talent to secure a well-deserved silver medal. Regrettably though, their triumph was overshadowed by controversy after the medal ceremony. Both Matthews and Collett were suspended by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) due to their behavior during the playing of the US national anthem. Observers believed that their conversation and fidgeting were reminiscent of Tommie Smith and John Carlos' iconic Black Power protest from four years prior. Despite this unfortunate turn of events tarnishing their success on that memorable day in Munich's Olympiastadion stadium, this photograph serves as a reminder not only of these athletes' extraordinary athletic prowess but also highlights how sport can intersect with important social issues throughout history.
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