Unexpected Visitor in Tahiti
During the Olympic surfing event in Tahiti, an unexpected guest made a splash. On Monday, a humpback whale breached the water amidst the women’s shortboard competition, astonishing spectators and competitors alike. The massive whale, reaching up to 19 meters in length and weighing around 40 tonnes, appeared as Brazil’s Tatiana Weston-Webb and Costa Rica’s Brisa Hennessy awaited their next wave.
A whale of a surprise
“Might be another contender for image of the Olympics. A whale during semifinals,” Paul Prenderville commented on X. Another fan, captivated by the spectacle, tweeted, “Surfing has become my niche sport of choice during these Olympics. And now I got to see a whale breach during the medal round. This is it. The best sport.” Yet another exclaimed, “WHAAAAT?! That is TOO cool! First, Paris was showing off their city so incredibly ‘whale’ but this fella said, ‘water, ’bout me?’… Making a big splash in this year’s Olympics!”
Iconic moments at the Paris Olympics
The Paris Olympics have been filled with memorable moments. Cyclist Remco Evenepoel made history by becoming the first male to win gold in both the road race and time trial events at the same Games. Celebrating against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower, his victory pose has become an iconic image of the event.
Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina also created a viral moment last week. The 30-year-old leaped off his board, pointing skyward in triumph. French photographer Jérôme Brouillet captured the moment, describing it as a perfect blend of timing and anticipation.
LeBron James’ Viral Moment
Team USA flagbearer LeBron James drew viral attention during the opening ceremony. Standing at the front of a boat in the rain, social media users humorously compared him to George Washington crossing the Delaware. “LeBron, resolute and commanding, stood at the prow of his vessel, his eyes fixed on the distant shore where rival Olympic basketball teams awaited,” one user quipped, capturing the epic vibe of the moment.