After their outstanding performances at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, Rayssa Leal from Brazil and Jagger Eaton from the USA, both part of Team Samsung Galaxy, surprised fans at the Olympic™ rendezvous @ Samsung | Square Marigny. Fans had the opportunity to meet the athletes, take photos, and witness them signing a board and helmet, now exhibited at the venue throughout Paris 2024.
Samsung Newsroom had a conversation with Leal, the bronze medalist in Women’s Street Skateboarding, and Eaton, the silver medalist in Men’s Street Skateboarding, delving into their journey to the Olympics and the role Galaxy played in their experiences.
Leal expressed, “For us skaters, witnessing skateboarding in the Olympics was very emotional and significant. I hope to see the sport grow even further. This Olympics marked an essential chapter in our story, and I am honored to be a part of it. The scale and level of competition were notably higher this time, especially among female skateboarders.”
Eaton added, “The Olympics elevate any sport to new levels. It’s incredible for people, especially youngsters, to witness the creativity, discipline, and beauty of skateboarding on such a grand stage. If there’s one takeaway I wish for viewers, it’s to pick up a skateboard.”
Reflecting on their biggest moments and challenges during the competition, Eaton shared, “Missing the final for the park skateboarding competition by a spot in the Olympic Qualifier Series in Budapest was a tough blow. However, landing a nollie 270 switch backside noseblunt at Paris 2024 was a highlight like no other.”
Leal revealed, “I was anxious and fearful of underperforming during the competition. Despite the nerves, my determination, tricks, and family were on my mind, but the support from the audience truly fueled me.”
When asked about their favorite features of the new Galaxy Z Flip6 Olympic Edition, Leal praised the Auto Zoom feature for its versatility in capturing content effortlessly. Eaton appreciated the compactness of the device, especially while maneuvering during his skating routines.
In terms of music selection during the competition, Leal mentioned her varied playlist, catering the music to her energy levels – Brazilian trap and rap for the semifinals, and soothing tunes for the finals. Eaton emphasized the importance of the journey and never giving up as a Team Samsung Galaxy athlete.
Leal’s words of encouragement for fellow athletes: “Give it your all. This is your moment, and despite the challenges, being present at this stage is already a triumph. Keep calm, breathe, and remember to enjoy the experience.” She also extended a message to Sky Brown from Great Britain, urging her to stay composed and focused.
Eaton’s advice for his teammates echoed resilience and persistence, highlighting the significance of perseverance in the face of adversity. Both athletes hope their journey at Paris 2024 inspires fans to pursue their dreams relentlessly and cherish the entire process, not just the end goal.
