Paris Olympics 2024: A touching video of Dutch swimmer Sharon van Rouwendaal dedicating her Olympic gold medal to her late dog, Rio, has captured hearts online. The 30-year-old athlete overcame concerns about swimming in the Seine to secure gold in the women’s 10km marathon at the Paris Games. After her victory, it was revealed that Rouwendaal had poured her heart into the event in memory of her beloved dog. Upon winning, she emerged from the water, pointing and kissing a tattoo of Rio on her wrist—a moment that resonated deeply with many.
Rio, a Pomeranian named after Rouwendaal’s previous Olympic gold in Rio 2016, passed away in May due to complications following lung surgery. Reflecting on her journey to the Paris Olympics, Rouwendaal shared, “He was my everything. My world stopped when he died. I didn’t want to swim for three weeks… Then my dad said, ‘You have to do it for him,’ and I wanted to swim one more Olympics for him.” Her heartfelt words led to a warm embrace from the interviewer, underscoring the emotional weight of her dedication.
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Fans React With Emotions
This emotional tribute touched many fans, who flooded the comments section of a video shared by the page WeRateDogs on Instagram. One commenter related to the swimmer’s bond, writing, “My pups are also tattooed on me; they’re a constant reminder to keep going for them.” Another added humorously, “He now has the best momma bragging rights in doggy heaven.” The outpouring of support highlighted the deep connection between pet lovers and the emotional resonance of Rouwendaal’s gesture.
Olympic Achievement
Rouwendaal’s gold medal in Paris marked her first Olympic victory since Rio 2016, where she previously took gold. She finished the marathon swim in 2 hours, 3.34 seconds. Australia’s Moesha Johnson claimed silver with a time of 2:03:39.7, followed by Italy’s Ginevra Taddeucci, who secured bronze with a time of 2:03:42.8. This latest achievement adds to Rouwendaal’s impressive Olympic record, made all the more meaningful by her dedication to Rio.
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