medalist

A medalist is a person who has won a medal in a competitive event. The term is widely used in sports and other contests, including the Olympics, Paralympics, world championships, national championships, and invitational meets. Medalists may be individuals or members of a team, and a single competition can produce multiple medalists.

In most events, medals are awarded to the top three finishers: gold for first place, silver for second, and bronze for third. Some competitions use different or additional distinctions, such as multiple bronze medals or ties that affect medal allocation. Whether someone is referred to as a medalist is typically specific to that event and year, and does not necessarily imply ongoing status beyond the competition.

The concept can also appear in non-sporting contexts, where a "medalist" receives a medal as an award for service, achievement, or contribution. National and international organizations maintain lists and records of medalists to recognize achievement and preserve history. Medalists may gain recognition within their field, qualify for sponsorships, or advance to higher levels of competition.

Notable considerations include the prestige associated with winning medals, variations in medal design by event or year, and issues such as retroactive disqualifications that can alter medal awards after competitions.