Hall of Fame

Janet Evans is an American former swimmer and five-time Olympic medalist. At just 15 years old, she broke world records in the 400-, 800- and 1,500-meter freestyle. Evans won gold medals in all three of her races a year later at the Olympic Games Seoul 1988, while also setting a world-record time in the 400 freestyle. At the Barcelona 1992 Games, she defended her 800 freestyle title and earned a silver medal in the 400 freestyle. Evans was also chosen to pass the Olympic flame to Muhammad Ali at the Opening Ceremony of the Atlanta 1996 Games. She broke seven world records in three events during her swimming career, and holds three of the longest-standing records in the sport for her 400, 800 and 1,500 times, which stood for 19, 21 and 20 years respectively. Evans made a comeback to the sport in 2010, and successfully qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2012 for the 400 and 800 freestyle events. Outside of the pool, she has worked as a motivational speaker, a commercial spokesperson, author and reality television personality. She was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 2001, and was critical in helping bring the Olympic and Paralympic Games back to Los Angeles in 2028.