Double Olympic champion: 22 years since Nicolás Massú's gold in Athens

Nicolás Massú etched his name in Chilean sports history 22 years ago by clinching his second Olympic gold medal at the 2004 Athens Games. On August 21, 2004, Massú and Fernando González secured Chile's first-ever Olympic gold in doubles. The very next day, Massú returned to the court to compete in the singles final.

Despite the physical toll of the doubles final, which lasted over three hours, and a week of intense competition, Massú faced American Mardy Fish. In a dramatic four-hour match, Massú emerged victorious with a 6-3, 3-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 scoreline, earning his second gold medal.

This remarkable feat made Massú the only male tennis player in history to win both singles and doubles gold medals at the same Olympic event. His performance in Athens surpassed that of notable players like Kuerten, Spadea, Andreev, Moyá, and Dent.

The singles final was a test of endurance and willpower. Massú appeared exhausted at times but, true to his fighting spirit, battled back. After falling behind and engaging in a dispute with the umpire, he seemed to find renewed energy. In a heroic effort, reminiscent of Greek mythology, Massú rallied with sheer heart and skill to overcome a formidable Fish, who ultimately took silver.