Sietas was known for his fast start; in 1932 and 1936 he led he race, but faded at the finish.

[1][2] He won three medals at the European championships, including a gold in 1934.

[3] Between 1928 and 1936 Sietas won all national titles, and in 1935 set a world record in the 200 m breaststroke.

He was the only European breaststroke swimmer to win an Olympic medal between 1928 and 1952.

[4] This article about a swimming Olympic medalist for Germany is a stub.