Roland Matthes (17 November 1950 – 20 December 2019) was a German swimmer best known for his dominance of backstroke events during the late 1960s and 1970s. Representing the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) at major international competitions, he won Olympic titles, captured world and European championships and established himself as one of the sport's leading figures of his era.

Competitive achievements

Matthes won Olympic gold medals at the Mexico City 1968 and the Munich 1972 Games and stood atop the podium at the inaugural World Aquatics Championships in the early 1970s. Across his career he also collected multiple European titles and set numerous world records in the 100-metre and 200-metre backstroke, remaining a benchmark for the stroke for several years.

Technique and style

He was widely praised for a technically precise, economical backstroke: smooth body alignment, efficient arm recovery and strong, rhythmic kicking. Commentators and contemporaries often highlighted his seemingly effortless pace and technical consistency, qualities that contributed to his long spell of international success.

Early life and development

Born in 1950, Matthes emerged as a world-class swimmer while competing for East Germany’s national program. Trained within the structured sports system of the time, he rose quickly through junior ranks to senior international competition, making an impact as a teenager at the 1968 Olympics and continuing to improve through the early 1970s.

Legacy and recognition

Matthes is commonly regarded as one of the all-time great backstrokers. His performances influenced coaching and technique for the stroke, and his name remains a reference point in histories of competitive swimming. He received national and international honors and was frequently cited in discussions of outstanding swimmers of his generation.

Notable facts and later life

  • Major international wins included Olympic golds and world championship titles at the World Aquatics Championships in 1973 and 1975.
  • He held multiple world records in backstroke events during his competitive peak.
  • Matthes died of a heart attack on 20 December 2019 at the age of 69.