If you've tuned in to the Paris Olympics, the infectious energy throughout the crowds at each event can be felt through the broadcast. Basketball games have been no exception.
As French fans cheered their men's and women's basketball teams to the gold medal game, fans from across the globe have been united by a musical tradition that in many ways has become the anthem of Olympic competition.
"Freed From Desire," a 1996 Eurodance song by Italian artist Gala, has become a go-to song in the sports world over the past decade. After it was played at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games, it has been a mainstay at Pierre Mauroy Stadium and Bercy Arena during the basketball tournament.
The repetitive nature of the song's chorus has made it the perfect sports chant for large crowds. Team USA head coach Steve Kerr and the Serbian men's national team have even noticed.
The Rise of a Sports Anthem
After its 1996 release, "Freed From Desire" quickly became a hit in Europe, peaking at No. 1 on charts in Belgium and France. The song's popularity in that region of Europe underlies its usage during the 2024 Olympic games.
Nearly 30 years later, the song is certified Diamond in France.
It first gained popularity as a sports chant in 2011 and gained popularity over the next several years, with different European clubs adopting the song as a chant to celebrate individuals, goals and wins.
The song took on new life at the FIFA Men's World Cup in 2022 and the Women's World Cup in 2023, with various nations adopting the song as their goal song.
Gala has expressed her support for the usage of the song as a sports anthem:
"Music and sport both gather people of different backgrounds together – a rich guy and a poor guy, they both love the same song, they both cheer for the same football team. It really brings people together from different backgrounds and countries."
After it was used throughout the men's and women's World Cups, it has stuck on as the anthem during basketball at the Paris Olympics.
The Song's Impact on Athletes and Fans
"They kept playing that European anthem that I can't get out of my head," Kerr said of the song after Team USA's semifinal win over Serbia. "Everyone was bouncing around. I took my phone out and videoed the crowd because it was so special just to see the energy and enthusiasm."
After Serbia's win over Germany in the bronze medal game, the team's natural reaction was to create their version of the song during their bus ride.
The song has also captured the hearts of individual players, especially Anthony Edwards of Team USA. Edwards, known for his energetic personality on and off the court, has embraced the song as his own. He's been seen singing the song both during and after games, and even when it's not playing, he's known to break into impromptu renditions. His enthusiasm for the song has only added to its popularity among fans.
The infectious energy of the song has created a unique bond between players, coaches, and fans. It's become a rallying cry, a way to express excitement and celebrate victories. The song's impact on the Paris Olympics basketball tournament is undeniable, as it has become a symbol of the sport's unifying power and the global reach of music.
Freed From Desire's Legacy: More Than Just a Song
"Freed From Desire" is more than just a catchy tune; it's a cultural phenomenon. The song's journey from Eurodance hit to global sports anthem is a testament to its enduring power. It's a song that transcends language and culture, bringing people together through shared passion and emotion. As the song continues to echo in sports stadiums around the world, it's clear that its legacy will continue to grow for years to come.
The song's popularity at the Olympics is a reminder of the universal language of sports and the power of music to connect people from all walks of life. The song's infectious energy and positive message have created a sense of unity and excitement that has captivated the hearts of fans around the world.
