Duchess Sophie Cheers, Celine Dion Returns, Andy Murray’s Final Games

The Olympic Games are always an emotional rollercoaster as athletes either see their dreams realized or sadly shattered in front of them.

The 2024 Games have been no different. They featured some notable departures with long-time British heroes like Andy Murray and Tom Daley standing down, while also showcasing incredible returns from the likes of Simone Biles. Even Celine Dion made an appearance at the opening ceremony.

There have been plenty of royal moments too. The Duchess of Edinburgh lost her composure while cheering on Team GB, and Princess Anne made her first international appearance since the concussion she sustained in June.

As we look back on these moments, it’s hard not to feel the collective emotions shared by those who participated, watched, and cheered.

During the conclusion of the Opening Ceremony, Celine Dion performed from the Eiffel Tower. This marked her first performance since going public with her diagnosis of Stiff Person Syndrome. The Canadian-born singer was visibly emotional, and there was not a dry eye among the viewers.

The Princess Royal has been easing back into work since sustaining a concussion in June. Paris marked her first international trip, and she was joined by her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, to cheer on athletes at events like hockey, rugby sevens, and rowing. Anne even handed out some of Team GB’s medals, showing deep emotion, especially when congratulating Adam Peaty and the gold-winning rowing team.

Andy Murray announced ahead of the Olympics that the Games would mark his final competitive match. Despite an emotional exit at Wimbledon, hearts were still moved as Andy played doubles with Dan Evans. The pair made it to the quarter-finals but ultimately bowed out against Team US.

Tom Daley, another British sports hero, also bid farewell to the Olympics. Competing in the 10m platform for the final time, he had initially retired but returned after being encouraged by his young son Robbie. He earned a silver medal in the synchro event alongside Noah Williams, with his family proudly cheering him on.

The Duchess of Edinburgh, always an enthusiastic sports watcher, was in high spirits as she watched the cycling events. Emotions washed over her as Team GB achieved victory, leading her to hug a nearby spectator in joy.

King Philippe of Belgium showed his pride for the Belgian athletes, braving the rain without a poncho during the Opening Ceremony to support his home nation.

Adam Peaty aimed to defend his Olympic gold medals from the 2020 Games. Although he had to settle for silver this time, seeing his young son in the audience brought him to tears.

Monaco’s Prince Albert attended the skateboarding events, despite his nation not competing in that sport. He looked visibly moved by the athletes’ performances.

Simone Biles made a triumphant return to the Olympics after her shock departure in the 2020 Games to focus on her mental health. Her decision proved fruitful, as she won three gold medals and a silver, demonstrating her unparalleled gymnastic prowess.

Queen Letizia of Spain also went viral for her enthusiastic support of Spanish athletes, attending numerous events to cheer them on.

Team GB’s Matthew Hudson-Smith narrowly missed out on gold in the 400m, losing to Quincy’s Smith of the United States. He went straight to his family after the race, breaking down in tears in front of his mum, who lovingly wiped them from his eyes.

King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands was another royal who showed strong emotions. Cheering on Dutch athletes in various sports, he made his way to the ground after a hockey match to applaud and celebrate with the players.

Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix was one of the most talked-about competitors for Team GB this year. Competing in the synchro 10m dive with Lois Toulson, Andrea was in tears on the podium, comforted by her partner.

Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis was one of the most discussed athletes, recreating his record-breaking feats from previous European Championships. He was elated as Sweden’s King Carl Gustaf and Queen Silvia congratulated him after his gold medal win.

Adriana Ruano Oliva of Guatemala made history by winning her country’s first-ever Olympic gold in the women’s trap shooting event. Overwhelmed with emotion, she was moved to tears as she secured her place in sporting history.