Fred Deburghgraeve

Belgium had never won an Olympic title in swimming until Fred Deburghgraeve won the 100 m breaststroke in Atlanta. He had impressed in qualification, setting a new World Record, and again beat the old record in the final. Deburghgraeve had won his first title the previous season, winning the European title in Vienna. Coached by Dutchman Ronald Gaastra, Deburghgraeve also won the World Championships in 1998, completing his collection of title. The best Belgian swimmer of all time, he won the Belgian male athlete of the year award in each of his three title years. Deburghgraeve quit swimming after failing to qualify for the Sydney Olympics, and is now a shoe salesman, and active in the municipal council of Langemark-Poelkapelle.