Olympic surfer in Tahiti

The 2024 Olympics in Paris has drawn elite athletes, but the surfing competition at Teahupo‘o in Tahiti is marred by controversy over a new judging tower that could harm fragile coral reefs. Critics, including marine ecologists, argue that the construction poses a significant threat to local ecosystems, with a petition against the tower gathering over 257,500 signatures. Additionally, the danger of the Teahupo‘o waves was highlighted when French surfer Johanne Defray suffered a head injury requiring stitches after colliding with the coral reef. The competition has seen mixed emotions among athletes, with some enjoying the challenge while others faced difficulties due to changing wave conditions. Despite the challenges, surfers like 15-year-old Yang Siqi expressed excitement about showcasing their sport on such a prominent stage. The contrasting dynamics of competition and environmental concerns continue to define the narrative surrounding the Olympic surfing events.