Capturing Moments Beyond Gold: The Silent Heroes of Paris Olympics

At the Paris Olympics, both athletes and Reuters photographers vie for defining moments. Beyond the critical seconds of competition, photographers like Pawel Kopczynski and Stefan Wermuth capture quieter, powerful scenes. Iconic images range from intimate athlete preparations to behind-the-scenes glimpses of volunteers, revealing the fuller tapestry of the Games.

For over 10,000 athletes at the Paris Olympics, a single second can mean the difference between winning gold and going home empty-handed. A steady foot on a beam, the right pressure on the trigger, or the dip of the chest at the finish line can separate champions from also-rans. This intense atmosphere extends to the 67 Reuters photographers capturing these moments in Paris.

"A slight change in light, timing, framing, or angle can make a big difference to a picture," said Pawel Kopczynski, Global Sports Editor at Reuters. "Everyone wants that one memorable shot from an iconic moment." Photographers also find quieter, equally powerful moments between events that speak to different sides of the sporting world.

Among these captured moments are images like Hannah Mckay's of Simone Biles applying lipliner, showing both focus and a private side. Others, such as Noble's shot of team USA captain Steve Tomasin, highlight the personal stories behind the competition. The Games also depend on the less glamorous jobs of volunteers, which photographers like Evelyn Hockstein have dignified with portraits, adding to the rich tapestry of the Olympic narrative.

(With inputs from agencies.)