The Paris Olympics have delivered many unforgettable moments, but none have captivated the public quite like the viral photo of Gabriel Medina’s mid-air celebration during the surfing event in Tahiti.
Captured by Agence France-Presse photographer Jerome Brouillet, the image showcases the Brazilian surfer in a dramatic pose as he celebrated a record-setting ride. The photo features Medina and his board seemingly floating above the waves, with Medina’s raised index finger marking his victory.
The 30-year-old Medina, a three-time World Surf League champion, achieved a near-perfect score of 9.90, setting a new Olympic record for a single wave. His celebratory kick-out from the wave, captured just as Brouillet had anticipated, added to the photo’s powerful impact.
Brouillet, who has been photographing surfing for nearly a decade, was surprised by the photo’s viral success. “I never imagined this shot would be so widely appreciated, but I understand why,” he remarked.
The image quickly spread online, receiving numerous shares and accolades. Medina’s stellar performance, which earned him a total score of 17.40, advanced him to the quarterfinals where he will face compatriot Joao Chianca.
Medina’s impressive ride occurred under ideal conditions at Teahupo’o, with waves described as “serious” before adverse weather led to a postponement of the women’s competition.
