As my journey here in Paris begins, there is no sitting in bed and eating croissants until the Opening Ceremony. Instead, I have had the privilege of attending multiple press conferences throughout the week featuring Team USA athletes from a variety of sports. As reporters get their last chance to gather as much as they can before the pace picks up after Friday night, the questions have addressed a wide range of topics from sport to social issues to pop culture. From the answers we have heard, as well as my own observations throughout the Main Press Center, here are some I would like to share.
All eyes on Team USA
Regardless of sport, media outlets from other countries have been present and intrigued about the backgrounds, preparations, strategies and goals of the Team USA athletes. In a press conference held with athletes from USA Swimming, questions came from reporters representing countries such as Australia, France, Tunisia, Great Britain and others.
The expectation of the U.S. to finish atop the meal count at yet another Olympics is a magnetic force felt throughout the Main Press Center. The opportunity to witness and experience this buzz first-hand only amplifies the enthusiasm I typically experience back at home as the Games approach. In addition, the U.S. was officially awarded the 2034 Winter Olympics in an International Olympic Committee session held in the same building. Not only is there energy surrounding the performance of Team USA in Paris, but also what could transpire on home soil both in Los Angeles in 2028 and Utah in 2034.
The return of a “normal” games elevates the excitement
As expected, a common question for all athletes has been their thoughts on their first Olympic Games during the summer since Tokyo in 2021, when the pandemic placed many limitations on the operation of the Games. There were barely any fans in the stands, no families allowed to attend, restricted interaction with other athletes, and constant COVID testing. For the athletes entering their second Games, the consensus has been that this feels like their first Olympics. For those that have attended the Games prior to Tokyo, the return to normalcy generates an excitement that mimics what was felt at their very first. Many athletes have shared that the ability for their friends and family to join in the festivities is what they are most looking forward to. Those with spouses or children that will get to watch them compete were overcome with emotion when asked to articulate what that will be like. Fans being back in the venues will generate an electricity that competitors are eager to channel into competition. An overwhelming majority shared that being able to interact with athletes from various countries and sports in the Olympic Village is one the most cherished parts of their Olympic experience, and they can now do that without constant COVID worry. The culmination of these components being back in traditional form makes for added layers of motivation and appreciation.
Everyone has a story
You could strike up a conversation with a stranger on the street and quickly learn of trials and tribulations that shaped them into who they are. Olympians are no different. From table tennis to judo to water polo to swimming, every athlete has parts of their personal and athletic journey that have propelled them to the Games. To hear first hand the things that both haunt and inspire them as they prepare to compete on the biggest stage is humbling. What’s been shared in rooms under bright lights against a Paris 2024 backdrop this week has humanized individuals whose athletic achievements make them appear other-worldly. And by doing so, the magical idea I have always had of the Olympics has grown even more. As a kid, I idolized the athletes that were dominating their competitors and doing things no one had ever done. Now, I can recognize that those same people I admired for their physical capabilities also had thoughts, feelings and experiences that made what they did all the more impressive.
By Hanna Barton | @Hannakbarton00
