It’s been over a week since long-distance runners, rhythmic gymnasts, and marathon swimmers took the biggest stage in global sports. Though much of the Olympics known by the world has remained the same, much has changed. Indeed, this year’s Games dodged positive tests, created a new ‘normal’ medal ceremony, tracked the 17-year-old breaking Bolt’s records, stirred controversy over a positive marijuana test ban, and, of course, provided a platform for Simone Biles and the ‘GOAT’ tour.

In the final stretch for the Gold, one thing is certain: this year’s storylines are worthy of winning a Gold Medal. But as Olympians continue to dominate as elite athletes in their respective sports, they, too, are beginning to create as influencers on TikTok. 

Remarkably, Olympic TikTok has become one of this year’s fan favorites. Though limited by copyright law, Olympic TikTok has provided unprecedented access to exclusive behind-the-scenes Olympic programming with never-before-seen footage of the grounds, “A Day in the Life” vlogs, and Athletes’ Village tours, all through a single social media app at the tips of our fingers. The TikTok Games has sported content of players testing the Olympic cardboard beds for effectiveness and sturdiness, basketball stars struggling with the complexities of suiting up in coat and tie, and athletes acting as beauty gurus and fashionistas. In fact, fans are even suggesting new Olympic sports be created based off of TikTok videos, particularly after CBS Sports’ TikTok account leaked footage of a Swiss athlete ‘climbing’ up an escalator without use of the stairs and with only a single hand on the handrail. Yes, you heard that correct; imagine the grip force needed to pull off a stunt of this kind?! Most definitely a leader in the TikTok Games with respect to form, technique, creativity, and entertainment.

A rare and oddly relatable lens for us fans, the TikTok Olympics are leading the world both with the highest-level of sports competition and with the most entertaining source of reality TV. So, what do you say about crowning a champion for their work on TikTok? Now that’s something the world has yet to see.