1. Overview
Matti Mattsson (Matti MattssonFinnish) is a Finnish swimmer specializing in the breaststroke discipline. Born on October 5, 1993, in Pori, Finland, he has represented his country in three Olympic Games, earning a bronze medal in the men's 200 metre breaststroke at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. His significant achievements also include a bronze medal at the World Aquatics Championships in 2013 and a silver medal at the European Aquatics Championships in 2022. In recognition of his accomplishments, Mattsson was named the Finnish Sports Personality of the Year for 2021.
2. Life
Matti Mattsson's early life and the initial stages of his swimming career laid the foundation for his later international success.
2.1. Birth and childhood
Matti Mattsson was born on October 5, 1993, in Pori, Finland. Details regarding his early childhood environment are not specified in the available information.
2.2. Education
No specific details regarding Matti Mattsson's formal or informal education are provided in the source material.
2.3. Early career development
Mattsson began his international swimming career with his first significant appearance at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. He competed in the men's 200 metre breaststroke event, where he finished 17th overall in the heats. This result meant he did not qualify for the semifinals.
3. Major activities and achievements
Matti Mattsson has competed extensively in major international swimming competitions, achieving notable success in breaststroke events. His medal record is summarized below:
| Competition | Medal | Event |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 Summer Olympics | Bronze | 200 m breaststroke |
| 2013 World Aquatics Championships | Bronze | 200 m breaststroke |
| 2022 European Aquatics Championships | Silver | 200 m breaststroke |
3.1. Olympic Games
Mattsson has participated in three editions of the Olympic Games. His first Olympic appearance was at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, where he competed in the men's 200 metre breaststroke, finishing 17th in the heats and not advancing to the semifinals. He later qualified to represent Finland at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. At the 2020 Games, he achieved a significant milestone by winning a bronze medal in the men's 200 metre breaststroke.
3.2. World Aquatics Championships
Mattsson has also competed in the World Aquatics Championships. At the 2013 World Aquatics Championships held in Barcelona, he secured a bronze medal in the men's 200 metre breaststroke event.
3.3. European Aquatics Championships
His success extends to the European Aquatics Championships. At the 2022 European Aquatics Championships in Rome, Matti Mattsson earned a silver medal in the men's 200 metre breaststroke, further adding to his collection of international medals.
4. Awards and honors
Mattsson's athletic prowess and achievements have been recognized nationally in Finland.
4.1. Finnish Sports Personality of the Year
In January 2022, Matti Mattsson was honored as the Finnish Sports Personality of the Year for his outstanding performance in 2021. This prestigious award acknowledged his significant contributions to Finnish sports, particularly his Olympic bronze medal.
5. Personal life
No specific details regarding Matti Mattsson's personal life, such as marriage, family, or hobbies, are publicly known or provided in the source material.