Greatest American Olympians of All Time
Jim Thorpe or Mark Spitz
Pick Your Favorite
VS
Your GOAT List
Why This Battle Matters
Who embodies the quintessence of Olympian greatness? Jim Thorpe, a versatile powerhouse who mastered multiple sports over a century ago, or Mark Spitz, the swimmer whose mustache parted the waters of Munich, winning seven gold medals in '72? Thorpe's raw, multi-sport talent contrasts sharply with Spitz's specialized, record-shattering prowess in the pool. This battle isn't just about medals; it's a choice between valuing versatility or specialization, raw talent or refined skill. Which champion’s story resonates more with what we value in our heroes today?
🔥 Fan Takes
How Fans Are Voting
In this battle:
Fans currently prefer Jim Thorpe over Mark Spitz when it comes to the greatest American Olympians of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Jim Thorpe 83.3% of the time over Mark Spitz.
Across all battles:
Jim Thorpe win rate: 60.1%
Mark Spitz win rate: 39.5%
Fan FAQs
Who's the #1 contender in the 'Greatest American Olympians of All Time' league on GoatWars?
The top contender is none other than Michael Phelps, whose Olympic medal haul seems unbeatable. Check him out on the GOAT List to see how he stacks up against other legends.
What makes Mark Spitz so popular among fans despite trailing in the votes?
Mark Spitz stole hearts with his phenomenal performance in the 1972 Olympics, snagging seven gold medals in one go. Fans adore his charisma and the era he represents— a golden age of swimming that set new standards in the sport.
Why is Jim Thorpe winning by so much in his matchup against Mark Spitz?
Jim Thorpe's lead is massive thanks to his status as a versatile sports icon, having excelled in multiple disciplines during the 1912 Olympics. His talent combined with a compelling life story really resonates with fans, adding a layer of historical awe that perhaps overshadows Spitz's achievements in the pool.