Answer:

medalist

Answer	Crossword Clue
MEDALIST	Lauded Olympian
MEDALIST	Olympic winner
MEDALIST	One of the top three, perhaps

MEDALIST	Spingarn or Caldecott recipient
MEDALIST	Winner of the gold e.g.
MEDALIST	Trophy winner.
MEDALIST	Prize-winner
MEDALIST	Award recipient
MEDALIST	Eric Heiden, for one
MEDALIST	Award-winning Olympian
MEDALIST	Decorated Olympian

MEDALIST	Michael Phelps, for one