This was the second appearance of the event, which has been held at every Summer Olympics except 1896. John Flanagan was the defending Olympic champion and had won at least 10 national titles across Great Britain, Ireland, and the United States; he was a heavy favorite.
The event made its second appearance at the Games, with the exception of 1896. John Flanagan, the reigning champion, was a strong contender, having secured victories in numerous national competitions across multiple countries, including Great Britain, Ireland, and the United States.