“The atmosphere shocked me”: Nana Taboulet
Stands were full during the entirety of the Olympic Games, from La Concorde in the heart of Paris to the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille, to the historic Grand Palais and the brand new Arena Porte de la Chapelle.
There was immense support for French athletes, who had the constant backing of the crowds and were celebrated in moments of joy and sadness.
“I have many memories of finishing fifth and hearing the crowd sing La Marseillaise (the French national anthem), even though we didn’t win a medal,” explained French fencing star Ysaora Thibus. “Those Olympic Games were great because the French fans supported their athletes, both when they won and when they lost. I think that is important because it is human. We give everything to sport; it’s not just about medals.”
Sarah-Léonie Cysique also felt the unwavering support of her fans. The judoka won the bronze medal in the -52 kg category and the gold medal in the mixed team event.
“The emotions were incredible,” she said, before explaining that she believes she will “never experience it again.” Even when she lost, she was struck by the support of the public.
“I saw that the public was really here,” she said. “They were cheering and clapping, even though they were also sad. They shared my sorrow, and it warmed my heart. Even though I was focused on my own thing and crying my eyes out, it was really heartwarming to have the public with me at that time.”
Méline Rollin was also able to make the most of a difficult moment thanks to the spectators. Despite being injured, she ran the women’s marathon. For her, it was an experience like no other.
“I’ve never seen anything like it. I have run marathons with 40,000 participants, but it was nothing like that. Not a single metre passed without someone screaming, cheering… honestly, it was crazy and helped me reach the finish line despite my injury.”
Aged only 15 and competing at her first Olympic Games, Nana Taboulet also experienced something completely different to what she had been used to.
“When the Olympic Games are in France, as a French person, it is indescribable,” she said. “People are clapping, cheering. It was impressive, and also touching because there are a lot of people here to support us. They are here for us.
“To be honest, the atmosphere shocked me… It’s indescribable and impressive.”