July 28

On July 28, 1984, the XXIII Olympiad officially opened at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Hosted by Los Angeles amid a Soviet-led boycott, the games welcomed athletes from over 140 nations. U.S. President Ronald Reagan declared the games open, setting a festive tone for the competition. This edition became the first privately funded Olympics, generating a significant surplus. Iconic performances and memorable ceremonies helped revive global interest in the Summer Games. The success in Los Angeles influenced the hosting model for future Olympic events.

On July 28, 2001, Australian swimmer Ian Thorpe made history at the FINA World Championships in Fukuoka. He became the first athlete to win six gold medals at a single world championship meet. Thorpe dominated freestyle events, setting new world records and personal bests. His unprecedented medal haul earned him the nickname 'The Thorpedo'. The achievement solidified Thorpe’s status as one of the greatest swimmers of his generation.

On July 28, 2018, Australian sailor Wendy Tuck led her team to victory in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. The biennial event covers over 40,000 nautical miles, testing endurance, strategy, and seamanship. Tuck commanded the yacht 'Visit Seattle' through challenging diverse conditions across oceans and continents. Her leadership and tactical decisions during critical legs secured her place as the first female skipper to win the grueling race. The achievement broke gender barriers in the world of offshore yacht racing. Tuck's success inspired a new generation of women sailors and highlighted the growing role of women in competitive sailing. Her victory was celebrated globally as a milestone in sports history.