During the Paris 2024 Olympics, a memorable moment unfolded between French President Emmanuel Macron and American television host Jimmy Fallon during the basketball final between France and Team USA. The two met in the stands of the Arena Bercy, where they snapped a lighthearted selfie, which Macron later shared on social media with the caption 'Best mates!' This playful exchange was a nod to an earlier request from Fallon, who had humorously asked Macron for a place to stay at the Élysée Palace while co-hosting the closing ceremony for NBC.
The selfie captured not only the camaraderie between the two public figures but also featured Tony Estanguet, the president of Paris 2024, and Pierre Rabadan, a former rugby player. Macron has been notably active throughout the Games, engaging with athletes and sharing moments on social media, including his interactions with judo champions and Olympic medalists.
Jimmy Fallon, a prominent figure in American television, is known for his late-night talk show, which garners millions of viewers. His attendance at the Olympics was marked by his interactions with athletes and celebrities, including a front-row seat at the basketball final alongside sports legends like Carmelo Anthony and Scottie Pippen. The event concluded with the USA's Dream Team celebrating their victory, further solidifying their dominance in Olympic basketball.
- Fallon, who boasts nearly 27 million followers on Instagram, has a flair for creating viral moments, often collaborating with celebrities on his show. His presence at the Olympics was a blend of entertainment and sports, as he mingled with icons like Mick Jagger and engaged in the Olympic spirit.
- The basketball final was particularly noteworthy as it showcased the USA's Dream Team, a term that refers to the elite roster of basketball players representing the United States. Their historical performance has made them a formidable force in Olympic competitions, with eight out of nine titles won, the only exception being the 2004 Athens Games.