Paris 2024 Gabriel Medina and mother nature make a ‘Picture of the Olympics” at Teahupo’o

The breathtaking photo, captured by the photographer Morgan Maassen, happened during Medina’s third heat of the Olympic Games in Tahiti.

By Ash Tulloch

July 30, 2024 at 07:06 01:06

“That’s the image from the Olympics,” responded a cameraman after I presented him with this photo of the athlete Gabriel Medina .

The power of Teahupo’o pushed the Brazilian up to the heavens on the final day of Paris 2024 Olympic surfing.

Over the years, the World Champion three times has been called a variety of things. Today, watching him fly through the sky, superman is next name to be added to the list.

The stunning photo, captured by the photographer Morgan Maassen was taken in his third heat of the Olympic Games in Tahiti.

The 30-year-old was a long way from an ideal ride, earning the score of 9.90 on the second round despite throwing 10 fingers at the judges while holding his hands atop his head.

“Felt incredible to be able to catch some decent waves. I was close to received a 10. So I was extremely content with the result. It’s a dream come real to be able to surf similar to this for the Olympics. It was always my goal and I’m achieving it today, and I’m extremely happy to be part of it,” Medina told olympics.com.

In the face of Japan’s Kanoa Igarashi in the fifth day’s heat the conditions were awe-inspiring in both power and size.

“When you’re in this situation, you are just worried about yourself and you’ll see waves for everyone. You’ve to take it on. There’s no better strategy. You’ve got to search and demonstrate what you have and remain determined to achieve your goals,” he said.

“I’m content because I had several waves and the conditions were great and it’s not often that you have the chance to ride such waves. It’s not easy to find so you must make the most of every opportunity.”

Medina will now go to the quarter-finals, where she will go up against the fellow Brazilian Joao Chianca.

“I am going to rest, relax and look forward to my next chance. I’m hoping that conditions are similar to today. It was awe-inspiring. It’s time to begin to do it all over again and move forward step-by-step,” he explained.

The famously private-minded surfer is aware that the attention he receives from many and is very aware of his responsibility.

“I think that what I’m doing in my own life is the legacy I’m planning to leave behind. So every time I receive an opportunity to fill a barrel, I strive to make it as perfect as I can, because it’s gorgeous to become a role model for youngsters.

“It’s an opportunity to assist the world become more people who are better than others. Every time I’m on the water, I’m contemplating this, and I have to perform my duties and I’m content about that. Everywhere I go, I get a lot of affection. My children love me and it’s an amazing way to live your life.” – Gabriel Medina