Unforgettable Memes and Moments From the Olympics Through the Years

The Olympics are a global stage not just for athletic excellence but also for unforgettable snippets of the event that captivated audiences worldwide. Over the years, numerous Olympians became viral sensations on social media with their unique, emotional, and sometimes unexpected moments.

Among these viral sensations is Pita Nikolas Taufatofua, the taekwondo competitor and flag bearer from Tonga, who caught viewers’ attention with his oiled-up physique during three different opening ceremonies.

Other sports stars have gone viral by showing exactly how they felt in the moment. U.S. gymnast McKayla Maroney famously spurred countless memes with her unimpressed expression during her silver medal win at the 2012 London Olympics. Similarly, American swimmer Michael Phelps caused a splash with his intense game-day face before the 200-meter butterfly semifinal at the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro.

The times captured also remind us that things don’t always go according to plan. For instance, a squirrel darted across the slopes during the Women’s Parallel Giant Slalom event at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics. Another memorable mishap occurred during the Opening Ceremony of the 2014 Sochi Games when an electronic snowflake that was supposed to expand into an Olympic ring froze up and failed to work as expected.

Although fans are eager for the games to start, especially to see fan favorites like Simone Biles and Coco Gauff, they won’t have to wait much longer as the Olympics will run from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8.