Link: Does anime's presence at the Paris Olympics signal the end of the jock-nerd divide? - Digiday

Anime is undeniably mainstream, highlighted by its significant presence at this year's Paris Olympic Games.

Athletes entertained fans by integrating anime into victory celebrations, supported by internet users who created memes comparing athletes to anime characters.

The Games were abuzz with anime references, including Team USA sprinter Noah Lyles posing with "Yu-Gi-Oh!" cards and U.S. shot putter Payton Otterdahl mimicking "One Piece" characters.

Tatiana Tacca of Oni Vision said, “Athletes have always been attracted to nerd culture, but now it’s finally in the spotlight.”

Although the previous Olympics in Tokyo featured anime, this event has taken it to a new level, primarily driven by the athletes themselves.

According to Kerry Waananen, anime references have now become ingrained in Olympic culture, amplified by younger athletes and social media consumption.

Emerging generational perceptions of anime are the driving force behind this year’s explosion of anime references at the Olympics. These younger athletes - well within the demographic that appreciates anime - have rewritten the rules.

Yasu Sasaki stated, “Brands 'get' anime and its fervent fandom because today’s decision makers grew up with hits like 'The Lion King' and 'Toy Story'."

Anime is now as cool as elite sports, making the Olympic Games the perfect platform to showcase its growing popularity.

Tacca concluded, “Viewers compare the extraordinary achievements of athletes to the fantastical feats in anime, whether consciously or unconsciously.” #

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