After months of shoddy planning and problems piling up in Rio, the 2016 Summer Olympics needs a rousing start.
An event meant to unite the world through sports has instead become an easy target for critics who wonder if the games warrant the massive cost and safety issues. Those worries are understandable, but they also may wane once everyone watches the world's best athletes compete at the highest level for individual and national pride.
The Olympics will kick into gear following Friday night's opening ceremony. Once the pageantry passes, everyone can settle in for a loaded weekend with multiple medals on the line.