The Olympic village serves as the ultimate creative hub during the games

The Tokyo 2021 Games have been affectionately dubbed the 'TikTok Olympics', as athletes from around the world have taken to the popular social media platform to connect with their audience in unprecedented ways.

One athlete who has gained significant popularity on TikTok is Norwegian swimmer Henrik Christiansen, known for his famous chocolate muffin content series. His relatable 'day in the life' skits showcase an authenticity that resonates with audiences.

Another standout figure is Ilona Maher, a Rugby 7s player who represents the everyday Gen Z girl and promotes body inclusivity across the Games. Maher, who is the most followed Rugby influencer account, has overtaken the All Blacks in terms of social media following.

Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina also captured the world's attention with a captivating still image that went viral. Initially believed to be a result of AI, the image was later confirmed as a genuine snapshot of Medina's Olympic experience.

Sunisa Lee, the gymnast who has become a global phenomenon due to her Olympics participation, also uses TikTok like her peers. Her content, which includes behind-the-scenes glimpses and participation in viral trends, is enjoyable due to her ability to present herself as a real person. Lee currently has over three million followers on the platform.

Other athletes, such as sprinter Noah Lyles and gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik, have showcased their niche interests on social media. Lyles is known for his interest in Yu-Gi-Oh! cards, while Nedoroscik is associated with Rocket League games.

Simone Biles, who stood out as an influencer during the Games, shared powerful, inspirational messages on social media, especially highlighting mental health and resilience, and expressing support for athletes like Coco Gauff.

It's not just the big names who are making an impact on social media. Team USA's Daniella Ramirez has gained popularity for her hair gel 'knoxing' videos, which have accumulated over 165 million views.

The connections athletes form with their audiences on social media are proving to be more powerful than medals, and these connections will continue long after the Games. As athletes continue to use social media to showcase their personalities and share their experiences, the 'TikTok Olympics' phenomenon is set to continue.

The Olympic village serves as the ultimate creative hub during the games