Who is Susie O'Neill?
Susie O'Neill is a retired Australian swimmer known as Madame Butterfly. She won the 200 metres butterfly at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and the 200 metres freestyle at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
O'Neill was born in Mackay, Queensland, in 1973 and grew up in Brisbane. She specialized in butterfly and freestyle and was known for her smooth, efficient stroke.
At the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, she won gold in the 200 metres butterfly. It was a breakthrough victory after earlier medals in relay and individual events.
Breaking a famous record
In May 2000, O'Neill broke American Mary T. Meagher's 200 metres butterfly world record, which had stood for 19 years. It was one of the longest-standing records in swimming.
At the Sydney 2000 Olympics, she won gold in the 200 metres freestyle and silver in the 200 metres butterfly. She won eight Olympic medals in total.
After retiring in 2000, O'Neill became a media personality, radio host and commentator. She has also served as an athlete representative on sports bodies.
Did You Know?
O'Neill was named the Australian female athlete of the year several times.