The 2024 Summer Olympics opening ceremony might feel a bit less spectacular this year due to the absence of Pita Taufatofua.
The 40-year-old athlete shot to fame as Tonga's flag bearer during the 2016 Summer Olympics opening ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He garnered worldwide attention for his oiled-up, bare-chested look, proudly donning a traditional Tongan taʻovala. To the delight of viewers, he repeated this striking appearance at the opening ceremonies of the 2018 Winter Olympics and the 2020 Summer Olympics.
Unfortunately for his global fanbase, Taufatofua did not qualify for the Paris Games.
What the Iconic Olympian Has Been Up To
Taufatofua's Viral Moment
Taufatofua’s debut at the 2016 Olympics was hailed as “one of the most dramatic moments” of the night. At 33, he made a memorable entrance, bare-chested and oiled up, carrying the Tongan flag. His traditional taʻovala, a woven garment typically worn around the waist, added to his captivating presence. This attire is customary in Tonga for formal occasions and has been Taufatofua’s choice for each of his Olympic appearances.
Competing in Both Summer and Winter Games
Taufatofua has showcased his versatility by competing in both taekwondo and cross-country skiing at various Olympic Games since Rio. At the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, he became the first Olympic cross-country skier from Tonga. He returned for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, competing once again in taekwondo.
Authoring a Book
In 2018, Taufatofua published "The Motivation Station: An Essential Guide to Becoming Your Greatest Version." This book offers insights into goal achievement, overcoming self-doubt, and managing depression and anxiety.
Current Life
According to The Coconet TV, an online network focused on Pacific Islands content, Taufatofua was born in Australia and moved to Tonga as an infant, where his father is from. NPR reported in 2022 that he now resides in Australia.
Will Taufatofua Attend the Paris Games?
On April 18, Taufatofua confirmed on Instagram that he did not qualify for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. "Sorry Paris, the five gallons of extra virgin coconut oil I’ve been stockpiling 'may' have to wait," he wrote. “My team and I fell short of competing at the Paris Olympics. I gave my absolute everything in both the kayak and taekwondo qualifiers but missed out on a qualification.”