Sinković Brothers: Croatian history and a phenomenal Olympic legacy
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
Sinković brotthers (Private album)
Rowers Martin and Valent Sinković have made history for Croatian sport by winning gold today at the Paris Olympic Games.
Their victory in the Men’s coxless pair final has cemented their legacy as the first Croatian athletes since independence to secure four medals at the Summer Olympics.
Reflecting on their triumph, Martin Sinković expressed his disbelief: “I don’t even know how I feel. After the first 1,000 metres, we didn’t believe we could win a medal, let alone finish first. We gave everything we had, our best, and it’s just unbelievable!”
Valent Sinković added, “What an incredible race! To win like this, in this manner. We don’t even know how it happened. We need to watch the race back; we were trailing significantly and couldn’t even see the British team.
(Private album)
We were just trying to beat the Swiss next to us, to at least put some pressure on them. But when we overtook the Romanians and then the Swiss, we got an adrenaline boost and went the fastest in the last 500 metres. We never thought it was possible, so we’re overjoyed! Thank you to everyone for the support and enjoy this moment!”
(Private album)
Martin concluded by acknowledging the support from home: “The support from Croatia has been fantastic! Now everyone, enjoy, and Valent—happy birthday, we’ll celebrate!!”
(Private album)
With this achievement, the Sinković brothers have written another historic chapter for themselves and Croatian sport at the Olympics.
Their latest success makes them the first Croatian athletes since independence to win four medals at the Summer Olympics.
They won silver in the quadruple sculls with Damir Martin and David Šain in London 2012, gold in the double sculls in Rio 2016, and then switched disciplines to win gold in the coxless pair in Tokyo three years ago.
This makes them the first with four medals at the Summer Games since Croatian independence. The Sinković brothers have three golds and one silver. Croatian Matija Ljubek won two golds, a silver, and a bronze in the 1970s and 80s for Yugoslavia.
(Private album)
The exceptional duo from Zagreb also boasts over 50 medals, including nine medals (six golds) from World Championships and an equal number from European Championships, where they have been crowned champions seven times.
(Private album)
This combination already sets them apart, and they have now further solidified their sporting immortality. With their unprecedented achievements and unparalleled dedication, the Sinković brothers have not only made history but have also set a new standard in Croatian sport, inspiring future generations to aim for greatness.
Their legacy is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and the power of sibling teamwork.
