Last update on. From the section OlympicsCrouser paid tribute his grandfather, who inspired him to pursue Olympic gloryRyan Crouser broke his Olympic record to defend his Tokyo 2020 shot put title.In the sweltering Olympic Stadium conditions, the American managed to throw 23.30m.After his 22.65m best throw, the world record holder held on to his lead and pushed Joe Kovacs, compatriot and world champion, into second place.New Zealand's Tomas Walsh won the bronze medal with his 22.47m shot.This is the first time that the Olympic podium in an individual sport has not changed since the previous Games.Crouser broke the 23.37m world record at the US Olympic trials in July. He was born into a family of athletes. His grandfather Larry is credited with his passion for the sport.His father Mitch was a reserve member of the 1984 Los Angeles discus team. Brian was a two time Olympian in javelin.Crouser's cousin Sam represented the United States at the Rio Games 2016 in the javelin.Crouser donned a cowboy cap and showed the cameras a sign he had made at home saying "Grandpa! We did it!"
