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Unforgettable Memes and Moments From the Olympics Through the Years

Before the 2024 Paris Olympics begin, look back at the viral moments from past Games, from the Tonga flag bearer and McKayla Maroney to #PhelpsFace.

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. 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. 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.

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