14 July 2025 - In recognition of her lifelong commitment to sport, equality and the Olympic values, Olympic pioneer and long-serving International Olympic Committee (IOC) Member Anita DeFrantz was formally inducted into the United States Olympic and Paralympic Hall of Fame this weekend. Among the “Class of 2025” was also IOC Athletes’ Commission member and IOC Member Allyson Felix. Over the course of five consecutive Olympic Games appearances, she earned 11 Olympic medals, seven of them gold.
In a moment rich with symbolism and legacy, DeFrantz – an Olympic bronze medallist in rowing, global sports leader and tireless advocate for equality in sport – was honoured in a ceremony held in Colorado Springs, home to the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) headquarters and the USOPC Museum.
“It’s really a huge honour for me to be here tonight for someone who’s been a mentor and a friend – not only to me, but to so many others around the world,” said IOC President Kirsty Coventry, who made a surprise appearance at the ceremony to celebrate DeFrantz’s legacy.
Anita has never shied away from asking the tough questions or from standing up for what she believes in. She’s a pioneer. And because she walked a harder path, she made it easier for all of us to walk ours.
Kirsty Coventry, IOC President
President Coventry recalled formative moments during her early years on the IOC Athletes’ Commission when DeFrantz’s guidance left a lasting impact: “She told us, ‘Even though you sit at the back of the room, you should be the loudest.’ That spirit of courage and conviction has defined her life – and it continues to inspire a new generation of leaders within the Olympic Movement.”
She concluded her speech: “Anita, we celebrate you. We honour you. And we thank you. The Olympic Movement is stronger because of you.”
DeFrantz’s induction as a “legend” marks a series of historic firsts. She is the first female rower and the first Black woman to be inducted into the Hall of Fame for rowing – a fitting tribute to a career defined by courage, service and trailblazing leadership across decades.
In an emotional and moving speech, DeFrantz expressed her thanks for the honour: “Thank you Olympic family. I can’t believe that the President of the IOC came all the way here. I am so grateful for this opportunity to say thanks, because everyone in this room, although you may not know how, had something to do with my success. We are one team.”
In her multifaceted career, DeFrantz served as Vice-President of the Los Angeles 1984 Organising Committee, and for over 20 years led the LA84 Foundation, advancing youth sports participation across underserved communities. Her enduring contributions span governance, education, inclusion and legacy.
DeFrantz, who won bronze in the inaugural women’s eight rowing event at the Montreal 1976 Olympic Games, has gone on to shape sport far beyond the podium. In 1986, she became the first African American elected to the IOC, and she later made history again as the first woman to serve as IOC Vice-President. A recipient of the Olympic Order in 1980, she continues to serve the Olympic Movement with unwavering conviction.
A celebration of excellence and service
IOC Member Allyson Felix was also recognised at the event. Felix, the most decorated woman in Olympic track and field history and an IOC Athletes’ Commission member elected in 2024, reflected: “I’m humbled by the honour. I feel like the Olympics and the Olympic Movement have shaped my life. It means a lot to me and I’m really grateful.”
The 2025 class includes a number of celebrated Olympians and Paralympians whose achievements have left an indelible mark on the history of Team USA. Their stories – across disciplines such as tennis, sled hockey, volleyball and alpine skiing – are united by the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect. Among the Olympians honoured were Serena Williams (tennis), Gabby Douglas (artistic gymnastics), Allyson Felix (track and field), Bode Miller (alpine skiing), and Kerri Walsh Jennings (beach volleyball), along with coach Mike Krzyzewski (basketball). Paralympians included Steve Cash (sled hockey), Susan Hagel (Para archery, Para track and field and wheelchair basketball), and Marla Runyan (Para track and field). Inducted in the “Legends” category were Flo Hyman (indoor volleyball) and Anita DeFrantz (rowing). Two teams were also recognised: the 2010 four-man bobsled team and the 2004 US women’s wheelchair basketball team.
Established in 1979, the US Olympic and Paralympic Hall of Fame recognises the outstanding achievements and lasting contributions of America’s most distinguished Olympic and Paralympic athletes, teams, coaches and contributors. This year’s ceremony marked the 18th class of inductees.
As the Olympic Movement continues to advance towards Milano Cortina 2026, LA28 and beyond, the induction of Anita DeFrantz is a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of those who shape sport – not only through medals, but also through values, leadership and vision.
