Olympian Sharon Van Ruwendall's Wins Gold In Paris, Dedicates It To Late Pet

Sharon van Ruwendall has won gold in the 10 km marathon swimming event for Netherlands at the Summer Paris Olympics 2024. This victory carries special significance for van Ruwendall, who dedicated the medal to his late Pomeranian, Rio, who passed away earlier this year.

A poignant video of van Ruwendall has gone viral, showing him kissing a tattoo of Rio on his arm after his gold medal win. The tattoo, a tribute to Rio who died in May following lung surgery, symbolizes the deep bond between the swimmer and his pet.

Van Ruwendall faced a motivational struggle leading up to the Paris Games following Rio’s death. However, with his father's encouragement, he found renewed determination and went on to win the gold. He shared that the tattoo was completed shortly after Rio’s passing and that his victory was a tribute to his beloved pet.

A win for Rio

Sharon van Ruwendall won the gold medal at the 2016 Olympics held in Rio city of Brazil. He had a dog of Pomeranian breed, which died in May this year after lung surgery. "I got him tattooed three days after my Rio funeral and decided to swim for him with all my heart after my father encouraged him," Rowendall told the media after winning the gold in Paris. And I did it. I won for him."

People pen emotional notes in response to the video

People are giving different reactions on social media to Rovendal's viral video. One user wrote, "I am happy that Rovendal took part in the game for Rio and won. Another user wrote: "Losing a pet is life's biggest pain, I think about it every day. Another said, "The best story of the Olympics. "