A glorious song and sporting beauty offer escape from gathering darkness
Sydney Morning Herald
by Tony WrightFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In a world grappling with growing darkness, the convergence of great sporting events and the transcendent power of classical music offers a unique form of escape. The aria "Nessun Dorma" by Luciano Pavarotti, renowned for its stirring emotional impact, has become a defining anthem at major international sports events. Originating from Puccini’s opera *Turandot*, this aria was first performed by Pavarotti during the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Rome and later became a staple at subsequent tournaments, including the Winter Olympics.
Pavarotti’s rendition of "Nessun Dorma" gained global acclaim through performances at pivotal moments like the 1994 World Cup in Los Angeles and the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. Despite his declining health due to pancreatic cancer, Pavarotti’s last public appearance was marked by a lip-synced performance of the aria during the opening ceremony of the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, where he received a standing ovation. His colleague’s experience at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) with a Discman playing Pavarotti’s music highlights how such moments create spiritual connections, transcending the physicality of sports and immersing audiences in musical beauty.
In 2026, Andrea Bocelli reprised "Nessun Dorma" during the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Milan, continuing the legacy of using this aria to unite global sporting events with timeless music. This tradition reflects how classical melodies, particularly Pavarotti’s interpretations, transcend cultural boundaries and connect people across generations. The enduring popularity of "Nessun Dorma" underscores the universal appeal of combining sports and music, offering solace and inspiration in challenging times.
For readers interested in global culture and the unifying power of art, this story illustrates how music and sport together create unforgettable moments that resonate long after the events conclude. Pavarotti’s "Nessun Dorma" remains a testament to the enduring impact of classical music in celebrating human achievement and fostering shared emotions worldwide.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/26/2026