Tonga’s beloved shirtless flagbearer returns for Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony

The Tokyo 2020 Olympics kicked off on Friday with an unusual but highly anticipated opening ceremony that featured a familiar face.

Much to the internet’s delight, Pita Taufatofua — the man who marched shirtless, covered in oil, in traditional Tongan attire during the Rio 2016 Olympics and PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics opening ceremonies — was seen once again carrying the Tongan flag.

We missed you, Pita.
Credit: Michael Kappeler / picture alliance via Getty Images

Taufatofua, who’s also a Taekwondo practitioner and skier, captured hearts around the world while carrying Tonga’s flag the past two Olympics, so seeing him march a third time — especially after COVID-19 prompted a delay in the games — really excited faithful Olympics fans.

Taufatofua was instantly recognizable to viewers (even with his mask on, for obvious reasons) and it wasn’t long until Twitter was flooded with praise for his triumphant return.

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This year, however, it seems Taufatofua had a little competition from Vanuatu’s flagbearer, who was also shirtless and well-oiled.

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We see you, Vanuatu. And while this flagbearer will never be the GOAT shirtless oily man, imitation is supposed to be a form of flattery, right?

As for the beloved Tonga flagbearer’s return, the official Olympics Twitter account commented by saying, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” We agree. Please do not fix.

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Much like lighting the torch, Pita is now officially an Olympic tradition. Protect him at all costs.