“I have to say…

By Editorial | Sport

If commentators and observers have sometimes been critical of the Olympic Games, particularly before the event, it is the athletes’ words that take precedence. And who better than Isabell Werth, who has competed in every Olympic Games for 30 years, to judge these Olympics? In any case, the German has a clear opinion.

Long plagued by skepticism and criticism, the Paris Olympic Games ultimately constituted a great popular success, a celebration which allowed the French people to forget a chaotic spring, and to shine internationally. But the greatest achievement of Tony Estanguet and the organization is surely to have put stars in the eyes not only of the supporters, but also of the athletes.

Indeed, the “City of Lights” allowed certain events to take place in idyllic settings. This was particularly the case for horse riding, the site of which was positioned right next to the Château de Versailles. Attention which did not escape Isabell Werth, 55, team gold medalist and individual silver medalist.

Athletes under the spell of the Paris Olympics

In the columns of the official website of the Olympic Games, the fifty-year-old did not hide her enthusiasm, even though she has experienced countless Olympics since her debut in 1992 in Barcelona:

I have never experienced such a magnificent place to compete. I have to say that the view of the palace is incredible, really. I am very happy, and I loved these Olympics.

The German is not the only one to have had an extraordinary experience. The proof with the words of Ruben Limardo Gascon, the Venezuelan, who praised the audience as Adam Burgess :

Paris ? It’s the best Olympic Games. It was really impressive. The crowd supported us the whole time, and I loved it.

Same story with beach volleyball player Kristen Nuss, who had a profound impact on the idyllic setting at the foot of the Eiffel Tower:

It really was like a dream. See the Eiffel Tower sparkle, all the lights around us. It’s a memory that will stay in my head forever.

Athletes do not hide it: with the exception of a few problems for some in the Olympic village, most athletes had an unforgettable experience in the unique setting prepared by the Parisian organization. A real success for Tony Estanguet and his teams, who can be proud of having silenced the critics. And Isabell Werth will not say the opposite.