Tonga's Pita Taufatofua Disappoints Fans with Covered-Up Opening Ceremony Appearance

Despite captivating audiences with his shirtless, oiled-up look in previous Olympics, Tonga's national heartthrob Pita Taufatofua surprised fans by donning a more conservative outfit for the Tokyo 2020 opening ceremony.

Tonga's viral flag bearer Pita Taufatofua, who has become a fan favorite for his signature shirtless and oiled-up appearance in past Olympic Games, left fans disappointed when he appeared in a more dressed-up style at the Tokyo 2020 opening ceremony on Friday.

Tonga's Pita Taufatofua Disappoints Fans with Covered-Up Opening Ceremony Appearance

Taufatofua, who has competed in both the Summer and Winter Olympics, has always stolen the spotlight with his unique and eye-catching look. But rainy weather seemed to cause him to button up for this year's opening ceremony.

"I didn't recognize him, he had his shirt on," joked Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning during NBC's broadcast of the Parade of Nations. "Paris baby oil was stocked full this week."

Tonga's Pita Taufatofua Disappoints Fans with Covered-Up Opening Ceremony Appearance

Despite qualifying for three Games, Taufatofua announced in April that he had failed to do so for Paris.

"This time my team and I fell short of competing at the Paris Olympics. I gave my absolute everything in both the Kayak and Taekwondo qualifiers but missed out on a qualification," he said in a post on Instagram.

Tonga's Pita Taufatofua Disappoints Fans with Covered-Up Opening Ceremony Appearance

However, earlier this week, Taufatofua announced that he would be headed to Paris after all as a flag bearer.

"Life is interesting. After missing out on the Olympic qualifiers, my goal was to focus on other areas of life. I had been defeated in battle with more scars added to the trophy cabinet, but I couldn't have been happier."

"While not competing, the spirit of the Games called me, opportunities arose and I couldn’t say no. This time the medal I fight for is to be of service, to be there for my fellow athletes, an ear of support or a voice of encouragement. To share what I have learnt and, more importantly, to hear the stories of the other Olympians, these amazing human beings getting ready to represent their nations."

While fans may have been disappointed by Taufatofua's covered-up appearance, they can still take solace in the fact that he will still be representing his country in a meaningful way.