The Tokyo 2020 Olympics kicked off on Friday with an uncommon however extremely anticipated opening ceremony that featured a well-recognized face.
A lot to the web’s delight, Pita Taufatofua — the person who marched shirtless, lined in oil, in conventional Tongan apparel in the course of the Rio 2016 Olympics and PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics opening ceremonies — was seen as soon as once more carrying the Tongan flag.
We missed you, Pita.
Credit score: Michael Kappeler / image alliance by way of Getty Photographs
Taufatofua, who’s additionally a Taekwondo practitioner and skier, captured hearts world wide whereas carrying Tonga’s flag the previous two Olympics, so seeing him march a 3rd time — particularly after COVID-19 prompted a delay within the video games — actually excited devoted Olympics followers.
Taufatofua was immediately recognizable to viewers (even together with his masks on, for apparent causes) and it wasn’t lengthy till Twitter was flooded with reward for his triumphant return.
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This 12 months, nevertheless, it appears Taufatofua had just a little competitors from Vanuatu’s flagbearer, who was additionally shirtless and well-oiled.
We see you, Vanuatu. And whereas this flagbearer won’t ever be the GOAT shirtless oily man, imitation is meant to be a type of flattery, proper?
As for the beloved Tonga flagbearer’s return, the official Olympics Twitter account commented by saying, “If it ain’t broke, do not repair it.” We agree. Please don’t repair.
Very like lighting the torch, Pita is now formally an Olympic custom. Shield him in any respect prices.
