Gay athletes in Paris Olympics

The 2024 Paris Olympics is set to be a landmark event, featuring a record 195 out LGBTQ+ athletes, surpassing the previous high of 186 at the Tokyo Olympics. This year's motto, 'Games Wide Open,' emphasizes inclusivity and representation, as the Games achieve a historic 50/50 gender split among competitors and the most openly LGBTQ athletes ever. Thomas Jolly, a queer director, will lead the opening and closing ceremonies with a focus on representation. Team LGBTQ is currently performing well, ranking sixth in the overall medal count with a total of 22 medals, including 5 golds, 10 silvers, and 7 bronzes. However, the visibility of LGBTQ+ athletes has also sparked controversy, with reports of homophobia and transphobia surrounding the events. As the Games progress, the participation of LGBTQ+ athletes continues to send a powerful message of inclusivity, reflecting a significant cultural shift in the sports world.