Matthew Glaetzer

Matthew Glaetzer knows all about the long game. His journey to becoming one of Australia’s most decorated sprint cyclists was hard fought and anything but straightforward. Growing up, he never dreamed of becoming a professional cyclist. He was the sporty kid at school, a natural all-rounder excelling in whatever sport he picked up, from running to pole vaulting. But a bout of Osgood-Schlatter disease forced him to stop competing in his teens. After three years away from sport, he entered a triathlon for fun. A disastrous swim nearly put him off, but on the bike leg, he unearthed a new passion. The rush, the control, the momentum – cycling had him hooked instantly.

From there, Matthew found his true home on the track and his rise was rapid. His love of speed carried him through five Commonwealth Games golds, three World Champion titles, and numerous national accolades. His dedication has also taken him to four Olympic Games, where he faced both triumph and heartbreak. He debuted in London as a teenager, then competed in Rio and Tokyo. Four times, he finished fourth – missing medals by the slimmest of margins.

The elusive Olympic medal finally arrived at the Paris 2024 Games. At 30 years old, Matthew claimed his first bronze medal when he and his Australian teammates powered to bronze in the Men’s Team Sprint, defeating France on their home soil. The win made even sweeter only days later when he took home an individual bronze in the Men’s Keirin. The moment meant more than the medals; it was a wave of relief and elation shared with his wife Nikki on the sidelines, who had seen firsthand the years of struggle behind the glory.

Away from the bike, Matthew has earned a Diploma in Health Studies and recently completed a Bachelor of Health Science, both at the University of South Australia. It was a lengthy journey he undertook part-time over many years while competing at the highest level. He says study provided a vital outlet from the intensity of elite sport, while also preparing him for a career off the bike.

His motivation comes from an innate competitiveness and a drive to get the best out of himself. But more importantly, cycling has taught him accountability, resilience, and the meaning of dedication. As his chapter as a professional athlete evolves, this Olympian, world champion, and UniSA graduate won’t be slowing down any time soon.

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