The gymnastics world mourns the loss of Jim Hartung, an Olympic gold medalist and respected figure in American gymnastics. He died on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the age of 65. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Athletics Department confirmed his passing on Sunday.
A Legendary Career in Gymnastics
Jim Hartung achieved his greatest fame by winning Olympic gold at the 1984 Summer Olympics. He competed as part of the United States men's national artistic gymnastics team. Beyond the Olympics, he built a remarkable legacy as a Nebraska Cornhuskers star and a dedicated coach.
Nebraska Roots and College Success
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Hartung competed for the Nebraska Cornhuskers from 1979 to 1982. During his college years, he won seven individual NCAA titles. He earned an impressive 22 All-America honors.
Hartung helped Nebraska secure four straight NCAA team championships. This achievement remains rare and historic in college gymnastics. In his final season, he received Nebraska's first-ever Nissen-Emery Award. This award honors the top male college gymnast in the country.
Olympic Dreams and Triumphs
His Olympic journey faced a setback in 1980 when the United States boycotted the Moscow Games. Hartung did not give up on his dream. Four years later, he reached the pinnacle of the sport in Los Angeles. There, he won Olympic gold with the U.S. team.
Coaching and Hall of Fame Honors
After retiring from competition, Hartung remained deeply involved in gymnastics. He served as Nebraska's assistant men's gymnastics coach for 19 seasons. His coaching career shaped young athletes for nearly two decades.
Over the years, Hartung earned numerous honors. He gained induction into the U.S. Gymnastics Hall of Fame. He also entered the Nebraska Athletics Hall of Fame and the World Acrobatic Society.
Personal Life and Health Battle
Away from the gym, Hartung cherished his family life. He married his wife, Lisa, who supported him through a long health struggle. The couple raised four children: Jim, Nick, Jake, and Hannah.
In 2010, Hartung received a throat cancer diagnosis while judging the World Gymnastics Championships in Belgium. He discovered a bump on his neck after wearing a tie all day. Doctors identified a type of throat cancer located behind his voice box.
Hartung underwent radiation and chemotherapy treatments. He experienced significant weight loss during his battle. He started at 185 pounds but dropped to 119 pounds by June. Despite fear and pain, he survived the ordeal.
Hartung credited his recovery to his family, doctors, and friends. By 2015, he confirmed he had been cancer-free for more than four years. His resilience inspired many in the sports community.
Legacy and Impact
Jim Hartung's passing has shocked the gymnastics world, especially in Nebraska. He leaves behind a legacy as a true legend of the sport. His contributions as an athlete and coach will continue to influence future generations.
