Tributes are pouring in for Olympic cyclist Matthew Glaetzer after the bronze medallist announced his retirement from cycling after 15 years. Glaetzer finally broke his medal drought at the Paris Olympic Games after finishing third in the team sprint.
Glaetzer claimed it was ‘like a gold’ for him after coming so close at multiple Olympic Games. In Rio 2016, Glaetzer finished fourth twice in the team and sprint events.
He finished fourth four years later during the team sprint at the Tokyo 2020 Games. He finally won the elusive medal in the team sprint at the Paris Games. He then won bronze in the following keirin event to double his medal tally in Paris.
Olympic cyclist Matthew Glaetzer (pictured right) is retiring from cycling after 15 years. (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
The 33-year-old did achieve three gold at the World Track Championships and ended up with 18 international medals. One of Australia’s greatest cyclists will now focus on his full-time job as a firefighter.
“I want to sincerely thank each and every one of the people around me throughout my career for the support, guidance and belief you have shown me,” Glaetzer said.
“As many would know, I have been working towards a new career as a firefighter and this year I have been fortunate to commence full-time employment in that role. With this transition, I’m formally announcing that I am retiring from the sport to which I have dedicated the past 15 years of my life.”
Matthew Glaetzer (pictured) won bronze in the Keirin Final at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
(Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Glaetzer added on social media: “From chasing a dream as a kid to representing Australia across four Olympic Games, this sport has given me more than I could have ever imagined,” he said. Before adding: “I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved, but even more grateful for the people who made it possible along the way. To my coaches, teammates, support staff, sponsors, family and everyone who’s backed me, thank you.”
Aussie fans praise Matthew Glaetzer’s career
Fans were quick to praise Glaetzer for his dedication to the sport. The 33-year-old will go down as one of Australia’s greatest cyclists and earned the respect of the community.
“Thank you for representing us with so much passion, grit and never giving it up attitude,” one comment read. “A real inspiration from day 1. May your next chapter be as successful as your last,” another wrote.
Matthew Glaetzer has announced his retirement from cycling after 15 years in the sport. (Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol via Getty Images)
AusCycling alumni lead Gracie Elvin praised Glaetzer’s career and hoped he would be able to help the future generation during his retirement. “While Matt was an exceptional sprinter and achieved many notable results, he was just as well- known for his resilience, determination, and generous spirit,” Elvin said.
“We hope that Matt would like to continue his journey in cycling off the track and within the Alumni Club, where he can share his knowledge and passion for the next wave of sprinters while being supported by fellow alumni in his transition away from racing.”