Spectacular surfing at Paris Olympics resonates with younger generation

Editor's note: Decision Makers is a global platform for influential leaders to share their insights on events shaping today's world. Fernando Aguerre is the president of the International Surfing Association (ISA). The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

Surfing at Paris 2024 here on the magical island of Tahiti has simply been amazing! We are stoked with how well it is going – from the great conditions to the excitement, passion and incredible performances of the athletes and the awesome images broadcast around the world to billions of people. The hero picture of Brazilian star, Gabriel Medina, floating triumphantly in the air with his board also aloft is one of the most iconic images of these Games – and possibly any Games!

I dreamt of this moment, since the day the village of Teahupo'o on the mesmerizing island in French Polynesia was confirmed, to bring Olympic surfing to one of the sport's most majestic and spectacular locations. This is a dream come true, not only for me but all surfers. The incredible waves of Teahupo'o are one of the great wonders of the world.

The Tokyo Olympics in 2021 was staged in totally different circumstances as the world was reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic. Of course, surfing was thrilled to make its Olympic debut back then and we are grateful to the organizers for everything they did – but this time Tahiti is a totally different vibe. We are thrilled to share this unique moment with the people of Tahiti.

We also have more surfing athletes in 2024, which is great news. In Tokyo, we had 40 surfers from 18 nations and this has risen to 48 surfers – 24 women and 24 men – representing 21 nations in Tahiti. It's amazing that surfing continues to develop around the world with a growing number of top-class athletes competing for Olympic medals.  

Olympic surfing is most importantly about the athletes – and nothing makes me prouder than seeing new surfers take to the Olympic stage. And one of the stories – and stars – of these Games is China's teenage surfing sensation, Yang Siqi, aged just 15. For such a young athlete, I am in awe of her talent and determination! She promises to have a super career and I can't wait to see her continue her brilliant success.

The development of surfing to attract more young participants worldwide

Surfing is perfect for the new era of the Games and selecting our sport for the Olympic program – with Tahiti as the venue – is testimony to the creative and inclusive spirit demonstrated by Paris 2024 and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The International Surfing Association (ISA) was pleased to fully support this decision and our collective approach demonstrates clearly how the Olympic world is innovating to appeal to new audiences and generate excitement amongst young people.

The inclusion of surfing in the Olympic program in Tokyo 2020 was a landmark moment for the sport and for the Olympic Movement. Now, with surfing enjoying a spectacular and enthralling second Games, the sport has already added great value and excitement with incredible action that is capturing the imaginations of a new generation.

With its unique and modern blend of sport performance, lifestyle and culture, surfing is without doubt bringing new energy and relevance to the Olympic Games, much like snowboarding and other action sports had impacted the Olympic Winter Games years before. With Los Angeles 2028 to follow and surfing's ambitions extending to Brisbane 2032 and beyond, the Olympic Movement has the opportunity to build on this momentum and to further enrich the Olympic experience long-term for a new, young demographic. Surfing's global reach, universality, digitally-engaged athletes and fans and unique visual impact will further drive exceptional added value for the Olympic brand in the eyes of young people.

Surfing, in a modern way, embodies Olympic values

With surfing's natural focus on youth, the sport is bringing renewed attention and interest to the Games, host cities and important Olympic values – making them relevant and meaningful for a new generation.

Olympism and Olympic values were founded on mindfulness, well-being, and healthy lifestyles. The ethos and lifestyle of surfing, with its connection to the natural environment and promoting social harmony, is helping to bring these principles to life.

Surfing offers an extraordinary opportunity to create a legacy that not only makes a connection to the contemporary philosophy of sound body and mind, but also serves to remind the world of the Olympic values based on inclusivity, self-improvement, harmony with the environment and excellence.

Helping to unite people through surfing and sport

Surfing is both a sport and a lifestyle that already has an incredible youth following and appeal – it fundamentally resonates with young people and helps to unite them through shared passions and common beliefs. Of the 35 million surfers in the world, we estimate 14 million are aged 12 to 24. This is incredibly valuable for the Olympic Movement. For example, surfing prioritizes sustainable living and ocean health and safety – a philosophy for life that young people in particular are united on.

Surfing undoubtedly helps to bring people together and this has been evident here at Paris 2024. The athletes, teams and fans enjoy a spiritual, natural connection that is rare in international sport. And surfing goes beyond sport to help connect communities. At surfing events, you will often find cultural and social activities, including yoga, live music and sustainability and ocean safety activations among much more – ultimately to help encourage self-improvement and wellness for all. Ultimately, we strive for a better world through surfing.

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