View this post on Instagram
The viral photo of Gabriel Medina from the 2024 Paris Olympics has once again been recognized for its depiction of one of the most memorable moments from the games. The image, taken by Tahiti-based French Photographer Jerome Brouillet, just won the 2024 World Sports Photography Awards, according to a press release from the organization.
The striking image of Medina seemingly floating in mid-air quickly became the most iconic moment of the Paris Olympic surfing event, and possibly the entire games. It was also immediately polarizing to fans of the sport â some were happy to see their pastime recognized on a world stage, while others were annoyed that recognition came for a mere kickout. Still, itâs undoubtedly an incredible image. However you feel about Medinaâs performance in that moment, Brouilletâs achievement is clear.
Billed as the worldâs biggest and most prestigious sports photography competition, the World Sports Photography Awards included work from over 2,200 professional sports photographers from over 96 countries â over 13,000 images overall. Brouilletâs entry is one of 24 winners across a number sports categories, including football, basketball, cycling, gymnastics and extreme sports.
âAs a judge and sponsor of the âWorld Sports Photography Awards,â I am once again inspired by the extraordinary talent and creativity showcased in this yearâs entries,â said Sophie Collins, Chief Marketing Officer at MPB. âSports photography holds a unique power to freeze dynamic action and evoke profound emotion in a single frame, capturing stories that transcend the boundaries of the playing field. Itâs been thrilling to see the innovation and passion from this yearâs participants, setting a remarkable standard for the years to come.â
