<p>The 2024 Olympics in Paris demonstrated the continuing importance of sports events as an aspect of public diplomacy and soft power. France used the event to reflect the French commitment to diversity and equality while demonstrating its continued great power status. The recent endorsement by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for a National Rugby League Team for Papua New Guinea (PNG) is proof that Australia continues to use "sports diplomacy" as one element in its foreign policy toolkit.</p>