Gabriel Medina and the iconic photograph of Paris 2024: A milestone in Olympic surfing

Surfing in the Paris 2024 Olympics has left an indelible mark thanks to the impressive performance of Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina.

On Monday, Medina achieved a historic 9.90, the highest score in a single wave in Olympic history, advancing to the men's quarterfinals.

This achievement was captured in an iconic photograph by Jerome Brouillet, immortalizing a moment of pure euphoria and skill.

In the image, Medina is depicted suspended in the air, with a triumphant expression while his board seems to float beside him, reflecting the magnitude of the jump and the wave he had just conquered.

The cloudy sky in the background accentuates the figure of the surfer even more, creating a composition that conveys both the intensity of the sport and the glory of the moment.

This photograph is not only a testament to Medina's talent but also a work of art that symbolizes the spirit of the Olympic Games.

The snapshot taken by Brouillet becomes part of the collection of other iconic surf photographs from past competitions, such as that of legendary American surfer Kelly Slater in the Billabong Pipe Masters 2013.

Slater captured in the midst of a perfect tube at Pipeline beach, Hawaii. Slater's precision and control on one of the most dangerous waves in the world made this photograph one of the most memorable in the history of surfing.

Or the photo of Andy Irons at the Eddie Aikau Invitational 2009, which captured him facing a gigantic wave in Waimea Bay, Oahu. Irons' bravery and technique in this big wave competition are perfectly captured, highlighting the ferocity and challenge of surfing in extreme conditions.

Alongside these, it can also be compared to the photograph of John John Florence at the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach 2017, when he was captured executing an impressive aerial at Bells Beach, Australia. The image captured Florence's innovation and style, qualities that have made him one of the most admired surfers of his generation.

Each of these photographs, like the one of Gabriel Medina in Paris 2024, not only documents a moment of sporting success but also captures the essence of surfing as a combination of art, athleticism, and connection with nature. The image of Medina joins these iconic representations, highlighting the evolution and impact of surfing on the global sports stage.