Crowds Return in Full Force at Paris Olympics

The Paris Olympics mark a thrilling return of spectators, filling venues with enthusiastic support as Rafael Nadal and other athletes compete. The event contrasts sharply with the quiet Tokyo and Beijing Olympics, which had no spectators due to COVID-19. Fans and athletes alike embrace the electrifying atmosphere in Paris.

The chants of "Ra-fa! Ra-fa!" roared the moment Rafael Nadal entered Roland Garros for Monday's match against Novak Djokovic. Such was the crowd's excitement that the chair umpire had to ask for silence during play.

The Paris Olympics stand out as the first Games with spectators since COVID-19 forced Tokyo and Beijing to operate under tight restrictions. From the judo mat to the swimming pool, fan-filled venues have made a captivating return, even extending to Tahiti's surfing events 10,000 miles away.

"This is probably a once-in-a-lifetime trip for us," said Jodie Linsey, who traveled 23 hours from Australia to let her daughter see her idols. Absent in the last two Olympics, crowds are now a critical motivator for athletes like Britain's Kimberley Woods, who noted the dramatic difference spectators made in her performance.

Rafael Nadal, who spurred through his match against Djokovic cheered by an electrifying crowd, thanked the audience for their support. "I always feel like (I'm) playing at home when I play here," Nadal remarked. Fans, media, and athletes echo the sentiment, highlighting the unparalleled atmosphere of the Paris Games.

(With inputs from agencies.)