
Tags: Antoine Dupont, Fiji, France, Olympics
Antoine Dupont celebrated a "sensational" triumph for France after he led the Olympic hosts to gold in the rugby sevens.
Having skipped the Six Nations earlier this year to focus on his preparations for the Paris Games, Dupont starred through France's campaign.
And he was equally as influential in Saturday's gold medal match as France overcame two-time defending champions Fiji 28-7, with Dupont scoring twice and setting up another try.
It marked France's first gold of their home Games.
"It is sensational. It is unbelievable. It is a big reward for us," said Dupont, who was introduced as a half-time substitute with the scores tied at 7-7 at the Stade de France.
"It is huge. We worked a lot for a lot of months and a lot of years – in some players' case – for this moment."
Dupont teed up Aaron Grandidier within 21 seconds of his introduction, before twice going over himself.
Grandidier was born in London but elected to represent France.
"I found out France had a system that allowed you a bit more time to break out on to the scene, so I was like, 'you know what, screw it, I've got nothing to lose, this is what I want to do'," he told BBC Sport.
"So I decided to chase it and pursue that dream."
Fiji had never previously before lost an Olympic match, while they conceded 20 points in a game for the first time.
LATEST STORIES
Hansle Parchment Cherishes ‘Truly Special’ Reunion with Tokyo Hero Teiyana Stojkovic in Jamaica
- 2025-03-19 10:53:14
- Hits 283
Minister Grange to Offer Assistance to Para Athletes Dale and Dave Oddman Following Mother’s Passing
- 2025-02-20 06:24:25
- Hits 272
CANOC President Keith Joseph Believes IOC’s Future Hangs in the Balance After Coventry’s Election
- 2025-03-26 06:34:22
- Hits 264
CANOC Seeks Stronger Ties with CARICOM to Position Sport as Key Pillar of Regional Development
- 2025-02-21 06:23:35
- Hits 233
Court of Arbitration for Sport Dismisses Nayoka Clunis’ Appeal Against World Athletics Decision
- 2025-03-19 17:30:25
- Hits 225