Leon Marchand Shines in Historic Olympic Night

Leon Marchand won two Olympic finals in one night, becoming France's Olympic hero. Paris organizers celebrated the news of the Seine's waters being safe for the triathlon. Katie Ledecky achieved her 12th Olympic medal, Spain's Nadal and Alcaraz exited the doubles event, and Olympic fever gripped France.

(Updates throughout) PARIS, July 31 (Reuters) -

Leon Marchand won two unprecedented Olympic finals in one night, thrilling a home crowd and solidifying his status as France's top athlete of the Games. The victory marked a successful day for the Paris organizers, who also received approval for the triathlon in the Seine.

Marchand completed a remarkable 200 meters breaststroke and butterfly double in record time, raising the roof at La Defense Arena. He earned his third gold medal of the Paris Games, following his Individual Medley win on Sunday.

Katie Ledecky secured her 12th Olympic medal in the 1,500 meters freestyle, tying the record for most medals in women's swimming. In tennis, Nadal and Alcaraz were eliminated from the doubles event by Americans Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek. Despite challenges, the Games have captivated a nation.

(With inputs from agencies.)