Kyle Snyder has an impressive record as a U.S. wrestler, and he’s reaching his peak now.
At just 20 years old, he became the youngest American wrestler to win Olympic gold at the 2016 Rio Games. He added a silver medal in Tokyo. Snyder, who won three NCAA championships at Ohio State, has also claimed three world championships.
Now 28, Snyder is aiming for more success at the Paris Olympics. If he wins gold in the 97-kilogram freestyle category, he’ll join George Mehnert, John Smith, and Bruce Baumgartner as the only Americans with two Olympic golds.
He feels he’s in top shape heading into Paris.
“My body feels stronger than ever,” he said. “I feel really good, and I’m improving technically in practice.”
Since Tokyo, Snyder has continued his strong performances, winning another world championship in 2022 and taking bronze in 2023.
But it won’t be easy for Snyder to reclaim the top spot. He faces tough competition, including 21-year-old Akhmed Tazhudinov of Bahrain, who beat him 10-0 on his way to a 2023 world championship.
Snyder praised Tazhudinov’s reach and technical skill, noting his ability to capitalize on opponents’ errors.
