Home > Popular Themes > Olympics
Olympic 400m winner Vince Matthews shows his disinterest in the medal ceremony in Munich in 1972
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Colorsport
Olympic 400m winner Vince Matthews shows his disinterest in the medal ceremony in Munich in 1972
Athletics - 1972 Munich Olympics - Mens 400m Medal Presentation
USAs gold medal winner Vince Matthews (facing camera) shows his disinterest in the ceremony, while silver medalist and compatriot Wayne Collett stands alongside him on the no.1 tier in the Olympiastadion, Munich, West Germany. Also pictured is Kenyas bronze medalist Julius Sang.
The success was overshadowed 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.
Collett stated afterwards " I couldn t stand there and sing the words because I don t believe they re true. I wish they were. I believe we have the potential to have a beautiful country, but I don t think we do."
Colorsport Images are an ever-expanding library providing extensive coverage of all aspects of sport including Olympics since 1972 and football since 1881
Media ID 6129579
© Colorsport
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Colorsport Images
> Athletics
> 1972 Munich Olympics
> Colorsport Images
> Athletics
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this iconic print from the 1972 Munich Olympics, Olympic 400m winner Vince Matthews showcases his disinterest in the medal ceremony. Standing facing the camera, Matthews appears detached while his compatriot and silver medalist Wayne Collett stands beside him on the no. 1 tier at Olympiastadion in Munich, West Germany. Sharing the podium with them is Kenya's bronze medalist Julius Sang. However, this moment of triumph was overshadowed by controversy as both Matthews and Collett were later suspended by the IOC after their behavior during the ceremony. As they chatted with each other and fidgeted while the US national anthem played, many interpreted it as a Black Power protest reminiscent of Tommie Smith and John Carlos' demonstration in 1968. Collett explained their actions by stating that he couldn't stand there and sing words he didn't believe to be true. Expressing his disappointment in America's current state, he expressed hope for a better future but doubted its realization. This powerful image captured not only a significant moment in sports history but also highlighted social issues prevalent during that time period. It serves as a reminder of athletes using their platform to raise awareness about important causes beyond their athletic achievements.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
