Rebeca Andrade had a spectacular run during the Paris Olympics. She started by winning the bronze medal at the team all-around final, before winning the silver in the vault. But, the best part of it was when she won the gold medal at the floor finals. When she went up to the podium, the silver medalist Simone Biles and the then bronze medalist Jordan Chiles bowed to her in a viral gesture. All her medals have now made her the most decorated Olympian in Brazil’s history. Thus, her popularity and supporters have increased vastly.

Hence, when she appeared at the NFL game between the Green Bay Packers first game and the Philadelphia Eagles, everyone was delighted. She has now become a bonafide star in the city of Sao Paulo as it is her hometown. This was also where the game was being held.

It is the first ever NFL game of its kind as it has never been held in South America before. It is a part of the International Game Initiative which hopes to take American football to a global level. The league realized the growing fan base in Brazil, thus they decided to host matches there. This makes it obvious that they would try to bring a local superstar like Rebeca Andrade to the game so that they could pique their interest.

Looking at the reaction of the fans on social media, the plan definitely worked. Many fans said that this move wants them to actually tune in to watch NFL games. Her presence was enough for people to demand a better performance from their teams to impress her. Some reactions also referenced Simone Biles as her husband Jonathan Owens plays in the NFL!

Interest in NFL Brazil increases as fans rejoice over Rebeca Andrade’s appearance

One fan said, “I was today years old when I learned that NFL games take place in the other countries. If I knew Rebeca Andrade would be in attendance, I would’ve tuned at the beginning!” This was exactly what NFL’s tactic was when they brought in Rebeca, to attract a larger audience. This seems to be going according to the plan. “Why is everything and everyone around me conspiring to get me into (football)?” said another fan. One user reacted with delight at seeing the gymnast’s appearance. “Rebeca Andrade at the Brazil game just made me so happy lol.” They said. There was another topic for the comments. 

Rebecca Andrade’s long-term rival Simone Biles’ husband Jonathan Owen is a safety for the Chicago Bears. Interestingly, he previously used to play for the Green Bay Packers. Some fans wished that the Brazilian should have shown up when Simone was in attendance. “Totally missed opportunity having Mr. Biles’ old team play and not his current team.” said one. Another said, “This would’ve been even better if the Bears were playing.” This might be quite an interesting situation in the future. Imagine arguably two of the best gymnasts in the world together in the stands. It is an incredible prospect and hopefully happens during the season.