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Sweden's only Olympic gymnastics gold medalist William Thoresson dies at 93

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  • William Thoresson, Sweden's only individual Olympic gymnastics gold medalist, has died at 93.
  • He won gold in 1952 and silver in 1956, later being inducted into the Hall of Fame.
  • His widow highlighted his rich life, with details of his death undisclosed.

William Thoresson, then 20 years old, caused a major upset in 1952 when he won Sweden's first, and so far only, individual Olympic gold in gymnastics. 8 out of 10 possible points. Four years later, Thoresson also won a silver in floor exercise at the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne.

In 2001, he was inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame. He worked as a physical education teacher in Gothenburg for 25 years. He passed away on the night before Wednesday after a short illness.

It meant a lot. But I think what all his successes did...

Eva Thoresson, Widow of William Thoresson

He was 93 years old. At 93 years old, William Thoresson was Sweden's oldest living Olympic gold medalist. His widow Eva Thoresson says his successes meant a lot and that they allowed him to live a rich life.

She stated, 'It meant a lot. ' and added, 'It's very sad but we must remember everything he got to experience. ' The exact date of his death and the specific illness he had have not been disclosed.

It's very sad but we must remember everything he got to experience. A working-class kid from Fräntorp and to experience everything he has done and got to live such a rich life.

Eva Thoresson, Widow of William Thoresson
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Sweden's only Olympic gymnastics gold medalist William Thoresson dies at 93 | Reed News