The Rise of Phryge: From Mockery to Adoration
Some people liken it to a whimsical blend of the iconic Eiffel Tower and a classic French beret, while others jokingly compare it to a quirky, red French Smurf. Many struggle to even pronounce its name correctly. Meet Phryge (pronounced “freej”), the official mascot of the Paris Olympics. Initially met with skepticism and even ridicule by the French public upon its unveiling, Phryge has since transformed into a beloved symbol of national pride and a hot-selling item across the city.
At the bustling Olympics megastore located on the famed Champs-Élysées, a staggering 15,000 enthusiastic shoppers line up each day, forming queues that stretch nearly five blocks. They eagerly await the chance to purchase Phryge in its various delightful forms—whether it’s the mascot dressed as the Mona Lisa or dashing alongside the Olympic flame. Sales of official Olympic merchandise are soaring, reflecting a growing enthusiasm for the Games.
“J’adore!” exclaimed Jenny Prudhomme, a local from southern France who is proudly volunteering at the Games. She emerged from the store one sunny afternoon, her hands full of treasures, including a vibrant red tote bag emblazoned with the googly-eyed mascot. “It represents not just France, but it also serves as a cherished souvenir of the Olympic Games, which have filled us with immense pride,” she added, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
Once considered an underdog, Phryge has swiftly ascended to a prominent place in French culture. The initial indifference that surrounded its design has transformed into a wave of national pride. As the Olympics neared their conclusion, this pride only intensified, fueled by an unexpected surge of excitement that gripped Paris from the moment the Olympic cauldron was ignited.
What started as grumbling and skepticism has given way to an overwhelming enthusiasm, as nearly a million tourists flooded the city during the opening week. Meanwhile, France’s athletes celebrated a record number of medals at packed events, with Phryge often energizing the crowds and enhancing the festive atmosphere.
