The Paris 2024 Olympics were filled with extraordinary performances, but some athletes became internet sensations for reasons that had little to do with their athletic achievements. From quirky personalities to unforgettable moments, these are the top 10 athletes who went viral at this year’s Games.
1. Yusuf Dikec (Turkey)
With his calm demeanor and unassuming style, Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikec became an overnight sensation at the mixed team 10m air pistol finals. Competing with nothing but regular glasses and earplugs, Dikec’s effortless cool earned him comparisons to John Wick, and his team’s silver medal win only added to the legend.
2. Pan Zhanle (China)
Pan Zhanle broke the world record in the men’s 100m freestyle, but it was his fearless attitude off the pool deck that made him a viral star. After the race, Pan didn’t hold back in calling out unsportsmanlike conduct, and his boldness resonated with fans, who quickly made him a trending topic.
3. Thomas Ceccon (Italy)
Italy’s Thomas Ceccon might have won gold in the 100m backstroke, but it was his charming personality that won over the internet. Whether it was his accidental abs reveal during the medal ceremony or his adorable nap on the grass, Ceccon’s down-to-earth nature made him a fan favorite.
4. Anthony Ammirati (France)
Anthony Ammirati may not have won a medal in the pole vault, but his mishap during the event made him a viral sensation. The French athlete’s social media following skyrocketed after the incident, and his newfound fame proved that sometimes, it’s the unexpected moments that leave the biggest impression.
5. Xu Zhuoyi (China)
Xu Zhuoyi, the Chinese hurdler with the scholarly look, captured the internet’s imagination at the Paris Olympics. His nerdy glasses and intellectual vibe stood in stark contrast to his athletic prowess, earning him the nickname “The Flying Scholar” and a legion of fans online.
6. Chiharu Shida (Japan)
Chiharu Shida’s bronze medal in badminton was impressive, but it was her playful personality that made her a viral star. Her cute gestures during the medal ceremony, including a playful tongue-out moment, quickly spread across social media, making her one of the most beloved athletes at the Games.
7. Tomokazu Harimoto (Japan)
Tomokazu Harimoto’s Olympic journey was filled with highs and lows, and it was his emotional responses to these moments that captured the hearts of fans. Despite his losses, Harimoto’s vulnerability made him a relatable and endearing figure, and his expressions quickly became meme material.
8. Lim Jonghoon (South Korea)
Lim Jonghoon not only won a bronze medal in mixed doubles, but he also won his freedom from mandatory military service. His jubilation at realizing he wouldn’t have to enlist became a viral moment, with fans celebrating alongside him.
9. Nada Hafez (Egypt)
Competing while seven months pregnant, Egyptian fencer Nada Hafez became a viral hero for her incredible display of strength and determination. Her story inspired countless fans, who dubbed her the “strongest mom” of the Olympics.
10. Vivian Kong (Hong Kong)
Vivian Kong’s gold medal win in women’s épée was impressive enough, but her retirement announcement immediately afterward made it even more memorable. With her radiant smile and graceful demeanor, Kong was quickly nicknamed “The Smiling Queen,” and her story became one of the most shared moments of the Games.
These athletes showed that the Olympics are about more than just winning—they’re about the moments that resonate with fans around the world.
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