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A viral TikTok video humorously mimiced an Olympic athlete's disappointing homecoming capturing the struggles of lesser-known competitors.
American TikToker with a Nigerian accent Darryl Vega has sent social media into a frenzy with his latest video in which he humorously mimics the reception of athletes returning from the Paris Olympics.
The video, which many initially believed to be a genuine news clip from ABC 6 News Philadelphia, showcases Vega's comedic talent as he portrays the challenges faced by an athlete arriving back home after a less-than-stellar performance.
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21:16 - 13.08.2024
US Olympics silver medallist fumes at lack of recognition on flight back home
The American sprinter was not happy that his silver medal was not enough not see his flight upgraded as he travelled back home from the Paris 2024 Olympics.
In the three-minute clip, Vega dons a Team USA track suit and recreates a scene at an airport where he laments not being recognized for his efforts in Paris.
Speaking in a deep Nigerian accent, Vega's character complains about his disappointing return, complete with missed flights, economy class seating, and a lack of fanfare.
"I am still better than a lot of people so when I came last it because they disqualified me. It wasn't my fault. I thought I had gunshot. That's what I thought. I had. But it's not what happened. So I tried," he said.
Vega continues to describe his unfortunate travel experience, explaining why he was not greeted by fans or officials upon his arrival.
"So that's why, because I came last, they didn't come to pick me up in the airport. All the other athletes came back yesterday. Me, my own flights, we were delayed. It was a 10-hour layover. Tell me why they put me in that type of flight. They put me in economy class. My back, I couldn't even stand people when they play lander. They had to wheel me out with wheelchair. With wheelchair, because I came last," he added.
The TikTok star's parody highlights the struggles of an athlete who, despite being an Olympic competitor, receives little to no recognition due to a less-than-glorious performance.
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07:40 - 15.08.2024
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Faith Kipyegon has narrated how Ethiopian track rival Gudaf Tsegay sought an apology from her following a dramatic incident that nearly saw her Olympics silver medal win quashed.
Vega's character continues to express his frustration at the lack of attention he received, sharing a humorous anecdote about a moment in the baggage claim area.
"I was even wearing sunglasses because I thought people recognized me. Nobody recognized me. Nobody said anything. That's how I was picking up my bag from the baggage place.
This old woman tapped me on the shoulder. I thought she recognized me, but she just wanted help with her bag. So it's OK. Nobody to welcome me. No rights. They didn't send nobody to pick me up. They put me in an economic class in a bag. This small girl was just kicking the flight. In fact, I'm just tired," he noted.
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06:09 - 15.08.2024
Hellen Obiri & Benson Kipruto lead race for Ksh6.4m Marathon Major prize after Olympics bronze
Kenya’s Hellen Obiri and Benson Kipruto are in prime position to each claim Ksh6.4 million from the Marathon Majors as they are top of the leaderboard with three races remaining.
The video, which has since gone viral, struck a chord with many viewers, who found Vega's portrayal both hilarious and relatable.
Some even mistook the video for an actual news report, further adding to its charm.
Vega's comedic monologue continues as he describes his attempts to secure transportation from the airport, eventually resorting to asking a news crew for a ride.
"Nobody should call me for 2028. I don't even care what the year is. I'm not doing. So I'm here waiting. I've been calling Uber since. Because if you try to get Uber from airports, it's expensive. So you have to, the best way to, I don't have allowance for Uber. So I have to take airport shuttle to the nearest airport hotel, then call Uber from there. It's usually cheaper. But that's what I'm trying to do," he said.
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18:45 - 14.08.2024
Golden girl Beatrice Chebet gets more goodies following Olympic triumph in 5,000m & 10,000m
After winning two gold medals at the Paris Olympics Beatrice Chebet has been rewarded by National Police Service.
As the video draws to a close, Vega's character, still frustrated, attempts to hitch a ride with the news crew, insisting that he is content to sit on the floor of their van if necessary.
"Which side are you going? Midtown. I'll stop in mid. It's OK. That's half my journey. I'll stop there and I will arrange myself from there. OK. No, ask your producer, please. It's just, I'll just be in the back. I won't even make noise. I'll just be in the back of the van," he noted.
Vega's video has resonated with many fans, who have praised his ability to capture the often-overlooked challenges faced by athletes who fail to return home as champions.
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