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Tonga's shirtless flag bearer returns for closing ceremonies

REUTERS/Stoyan Nenov

After emerging as the breakout star of the opening ceremonies, the Tongan flag bearer made a triumphant return to say goodbye to Rio during Sunday's closing ceremonies.

Pita Taufatofua created a media storm when he appeared shirtless and oiled up during the opening ceremonies, providing the game with one of its earliest viral moments. After all the attention, he embarked on a whirlwind tour that included "Today" show correspondents oiling him up.

While the actual competition part didn't quite go his way - he lost 16-1 in his only taekwondo match - Taufatofua certainly had an Olympics he'll never forget and got one last moment to glisten in Brazil.

Photo courtesy Action Images

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