A Heady Mix of Skill and Fashion: Five Things We Have Learned From The Olympics So Far

For any sports fan across the world, The Olympics is the pinnacle. An amalgamation of nations, cultures and talents converging to create a sporting spectacle, it is undoubtedly the biggest competitive event in the world. This summer, it is taking over the French capital. During a time when humanity is being questioned like never before, the Games provide a welcome boost of serotonin and remind us of the perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication found across our shores.

Here’s five things that Sports World’s Editing Desk have learned from the 2024 Olympics so far.

Featured Image: @jermonebrouilletphotography

1. Simone Biles Is Still The GOAT of Gymnastics

Team USA won gold in the women’s gymnastics final, and unsurprisingly, Simone Biles led their indomitable victory. The 27-year-old performed peerlessly as Zinedine Zidane, Steph Curry and Tony Hawk watched on, with Simone effortlessly breezing through her routines. She also won gold in the Individual All-Around by 1.199 points, becoming the oldest woman to take the title in over 70 years and the third to win two all-around titles. Asked if she had a last message, Biles, who sported a diamond necklace in the shape of a goat, said: “Keep your head on straight, have fun, and dream big.”

2. Novak’s Reign Is Not Over

Novak Djokovic has won a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles making him statistically the greatest tennis player in history. This Olympics he has battled through knee pain to continue his symbolic skill and inspiring drive, progressing to the latter stages of the men’s singles. Much has been made of Novak in recent times – will he falter? Is he past his best? – significantly moreso as Carlos Alcaraz pipped him to the post in last month’s Wimbeldon, and Novak’s impromptu outburst at the crowd, but this Games has proven one thing, Djokovic is still an animal on the court.

3. Léon Marchand Continues To Flourish As Swimming’s Poster Boy

It’s no surprise that after Louis Vuitton announced him as their latest brand ambassador, Léon Marchand is coming up roses. The young swimming sensation has picked up four Paris 2024 Olympic Gold Medals so far, affirming his rise up the ranks of all-time swimming greats and becoming France’s face of the Olympics. His profile as a young, hungry, extremely talented figure of the next generation is rising fervently.

4. Sports Fashion is Changing the Game

With huge cultural figures in attendance, the Olympic Opening Ceremony in Paris was a feast for the eyes, but it was the athletes who stole the runway show. The Italian brand Maison Berluti, part of the LVMH group, designed the French athlete’s outfits; a midnight blue wool tuxedo with a shawl collar and a tricolour gradient reminiscent of the French flag, a shirt with a label embroidered with the inscription “Artisans of all victories”, and a pair of blue leather shoes that attest to the institution’s craftsmanship. Another highlight was Lululemon’s innovative take on Team Canada’s uniform, an all-red ensemble consisting of performance fabrics and avant-garde construction. These are just two of a string of fashion x sports collabs which the Olympics has brought to light.

5. Team GB is Birthing Future Stars

Ruby Grace Evans is a teenage Welsh artistic gymnast who was part of the silver-medal-winning team at the 2024 European Championships, and is a five-time Northern European champion. Despite narrowly missing out on a bronze at this year’s games as part of the Women’s Artistic Team All-Around, Ruby showcased the talent and supreme confidence to take to the floor with ease and indicate she’s more than ready for what’s to come. Another standout has been Jack Draper. While he bowed out to Taylor Fritz in the second round, Jack is fresh from winning his first tennis title on the ATP Tour, and has already beaten Carlos Alcaraz in his ascendancy. He is also a rising fashion star with collaborations with Vogue and Tatler already capturing attention. Could he be the next British tennis superstar, just as Murray departs? There’s no doubt, Draper’s future is bright.

Last but not least, Keely Hodgkinson. You’ll have done well to avoid hearing about this 22-year-old’s emphatic Gold performance in the Women’s 800m as she strode away to claim her first major global title. A stunning performance, Keely’s aptitude for success is a signifier that she’s set for big things – and with a growing following, and a string of recent fashion collaborations, she’s one of British sport’s greatest products. Watch her shine.