The surfing competition of the Paris Olympics officially began in Tahiti with surfers showcasing their skills amid challenging conditions. Notable athletes like Ethan Ewing and Kanoa Igarashi faced tough heats, with Ewing ultimately securing a win while Igarashi and reigning world champion Filipe Toledo were relegated to the second round. Surfers expressed mixed feelings about the wave conditions, with some hoping for a stronger swell as the competition progresses. The event's location, 16,000 kilometers from Paris, has been justified by the excellent wave forecasts for Teahupo'o, promising high-quality surfing over the competition's duration. The International Surfing Association president noted that the decision to hold the event in Tahiti has been vindicated by the favorable conditions expected. The competition runs until August 5, with the potential for rough weather impacting future heats.