The event was won by Sim Iness of the United States, the nation's eighth victory in the men's discus throw.

Defending champion Adolfo Consolini of Italy took silver, becoming the fourth man to win two medals in the event.

The American team was also strong, as usual, with Gordien holding the world record and Sim Iness winning the U.S. Olympic trials.

[2] Australia, Iceland, Israel, and the Soviet Union each made their debut in the men's discus throw.

The United States made its 12th appearance, having competed in every edition of the Olympic men's discus throw to date.