French Athlete Breaks European Olympic Record, Proposes to Boyfriend

Despite being tainted by controversy, the Paris Olympics 2024 also created some unforgettable moments. One such heartwarming occurrence was French athlete Alice Finot’s exceptional performance in the 3000m steeplechase final. While she didn’t secure the top position or a medal, Ms. Finot made history by breaking the European record in the event. The 33-year-old smashed the European steeplechase record with an impressive time of 8:58.67.

She also took the opportunity to propose to her partner, right after the race, turning it into a truly memorable event. In the footage, Ms. Finot is observed approaching the stands and surprising her boyfriend with a sincere proposal. With the audience erupting in cheers, she produced an Olympic pin, knelt down, and popped the question. As the crowd erupted in a thunderous roar of cheers and applause, the couple exchanged a tender, tearful embrace and kiss. 

”French athlete came in fourth in the 3000m steeplechase, a European record, and asked for her boyfriend’s hand,” the video was captioned on X. 

Watch the video here:

French athlete came in fourth in the 3000m steeplechase, a European record, and asked for her boyfriend’s hand …pic.twitter.com/ofs9DocirE

— Figen (@TheFigen_) August 7, 2024

Ms. Finot’s extraordinary record-breaking performance and her romantic proposal have touched the hearts of many online users. Reacting to the video, one user wrote, ”The best thing you could see on the internet today. Congratulations, a new couple in town.” Another commented, ”That is sweet. He should be proud of her.” A third wrote, ”Women breaking all barriers. Love to see that.”

A fourth added, ”Sounds like a winning combination of love and success! What a memorable moment, congrats to the athlete.”

Notably, Alice Finot and her fiance, triathlete Bruno Martinez, have been together for nine years. 

“I told myself that if I ran under nine minutes, knowing that nine is my lucky number and that we’ve been together for nine years, then I would propose,” Ms. Finot said.

In addition to Alice Finot’s heartwarming proposal, two more couples have proposed to their partners during the event. After winning the gold medal in mixed doubles badminton, Huang Ya Qiong was surprised by her boyfriend Liu Yuchen with a heartfelt proposal. 

Meanwhile, Olympian Justin Best pulled off an unforgettable proposal for his long-time girlfriend Lainey Duncan in front of the iconic Eiffel Tower. With over 2,700 yellow roses setting the scene, Mr. Best popped the question. 

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