The Paris 2024 Olympic Games delivered unforgettable moments that captivated the world. From record-breaking performances to viral celebrations and heartwarming stories of sportsmanship, these Games truly had it all.
Here’s a look at the eight best moments that made Paris 2024 an Olympic Games to remember:
Yusuf Dikec’s Hands-in Pocket Shooting Style
Source: Yahoo Sports
Turkey’s pistol shooter Yusuf Dikec stole the spotlight with his unconventional shooting technique. Competing in the mixed team 10-metre air pistol final, Dikec became an instant social media sensation, not just for winning a team silver medal but for his relaxed, hands-in-pocket shooting style. His minimalist approach—using minimal auxiliary equipment like lenses, eyelids, and ear protection—made him stand out even more.
Athletes across various sports soon began mimicking Dikec’s distinctive pose as a celebratory gesture, proving that sometimes, less really is more.
Kim Ye-ji’s Main Character Energy
Source: Malay Mail
In another shooting event, South Korea’s Kim Ye-Ji made a significant impact with her remarkable skill and style. Winning the silver medal in the women’s 10-metre air pistol event, Kim’s performance was complemented by her striking steampunk-inspired glasses and a fierce demeanour. Her “main character” energy not only secured her a place on the podium but also catapulted her to internet fame.
Lee Zii Jia and Aaron-Chia Wooi Yik’s Epic Showdowns
Source: Badminton planet
How can we forget our national heroes who brought home two bronze medals, showcasing extraordinary resilience and determination? Lee Zii Jia delivered an incredible performance in his men’ singles badminton match against India’s Lakshya Sen, making a remarkable comeback from a challenging start to win 13-21, 21-16, 21-11.
Similarly, the duo of Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik thrilled fans with their battle for bronze against Denmark’s Kim Astrup and Anders Skaarup Rasmussen. Despite being on the brink of defeat, they saved four match points to secure victory with a score of 16-21, 22-20, 21-19, earning their second consecutive Olympic podium finish solidifying their place in badminton history.
Groundbreaking Moment in Gymnastics History
Source: Teen Vogue
The gymnastics competition saw Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles, and Rebeca Andrade making history. Biles claimed silver, Chiles took Bronze and Andrade won gold, marking the first time an all-Black podium was achieved in Olympic gymnastics. Despite Chiles’ bronze being unfairly revoked later, the moment remains a powerful symbol of excellence and representation.
Raygun’s Kangaroo Dance Breaks the Internet
Source: Yahoo Sports
The breaking (breakdancing) debut at the Paris Olympics was a hit, thanks in large part to Australian b-girl Raygun, whose real name is Rachel Gunn. Despite scoring zero points, her unconventional “kangaroo dance” routine became a viral sensation. Raygun’s performance and her message “to be different” resonate with fans, even as breaking’s future at the Olympics remains uncertain.
Not One, But Seven Marriage Proposals
Source: Olympics
The Paris 2024 Olympics set a record with seven marriage proposals, making it the Olympics with the most proposals ever. Among the notable moments was China's Liu Yuchen, who proposed to his girlfriend and mixed doubles partner Huang Yaqiong after they won gold.
Other proposals took place at iconic locations like the Eiffel Tower, adding a romantic touch to the Games. The record number of proposals became a highlight of the closing ceremony, marking the Olympics not just as a celebration of athletic achievement but also of love.
Zhou Yaqin’s Medal-Biting Moment
Source: X:OlympicsContext
China’s Zhou Yaqin became an overnight sensation after mimicking her fellow gymnasts’ medal-biting celebration on the podium. Competing in the women’s balance beam artistic gymnastics final, Zhou’s innocent and endearing reaction to her silver medal quickly became one of the most heartwarming moments of the Games. Her “cute” recreation of the moment during a media interview further endeared her to fans worldwide.
Gabriel Medina’s Viral Surfing Photo
Source: AFP
Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina made waves at the Olympics with his record-breaking 9.90 single-wave score, but it was a stunning photo of him suspended in mid-air over a wave that went viral. Captured by Agence France-Presse photographer Jerome Brouillet, the image had many questioning its authenticity, but it was indeed a real moment of athletic brilliance. The viral photo became one of the most defining images of the Paris Olympics, showcasing the power and beauty of the sport.
Conclusion
The Paris 2024 Olympics will be remembered for its extraordinary moments, from record-breaking performances to heartwarming proposals. Just as these athletes created lasting memories, CompAsia helps you capture and relive your own with our range of second-hand smartphones and devices. Great moments deserve great technology, and we’re here to keep you connected to what matters most.