The Paris Olympics have drawn to a close, with the United States emerging victorious atop the medal table. While the US and China finished with an identical 40 gold medals, the Americans secured a higher overall medal count, claiming 126 medals in total. This marks the fourth consecutive Olympic Games where the USA has topped the medal table. China, however, delivered their best performance since the 2008 Beijing Games, achieving a record 40 gold medals – their highest tally at a Summer Olympics outside their home country.
The closing ceremony, held at the Stade de France national stadium, witnessed a dazzling spectacle with a star-studded lineup. The event marked the official handover of the Olympic baton from Paris to Los Angeles, who will host the 2028 Games. Los Angeles, known for its multiculturalism and Hollywood glamour, plans to capitalize on these attributes for its Olympic Games. The ceremony’s star-studded lineup is a testament to this vision.
The Paris Games were marked by a surge of excitement and enthusiasm throughout the host nation. France celebrated the emergence of Leon Marchand as a swimming sensation, winning four gold medals in the opening week. Judoka Teddy Riner further boosted French spirits by securing his fifth Olympic gold medal. The Games also witnessed a triumphant return of Simone Biles, who overcame the mental hurdles she faced in Tokyo to reclaim her title as the world’s most decorated gymnast, adding four more gold medals to her collection.
The Paris Games also showcased new and exciting additions to the Olympic program. Breakdancing made its debut, generating a buzz on social media, while 3×3 basketball, sports climbing, skateboarding, and surfing made their second appearances. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) was relieved by the lack of major scandals, though it did face some controversies. The women’s boxing competition saw a dispute regarding gender eligibility, exposing the complex relationship between the IOC and the International Boxing Association. Despite this, Algerian boxer Imane Khelif emerged victorious, winning gold and earning the respect of her silver-medal rival.
The successful clean-up of the Seine River allowed for triathlon and marathon swimmers to compete in the heart of Paris without any major health issues, though bacteria levels did lead to some training cancellations. The City of Light itself became a star attraction during the Games, providing a breathtaking backdrop for the competitions, ranging from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the opulent Palace of Versailles. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who will become the first Black woman mayor to receive the Olympic flag, acknowledged the high standards set by Paris and expressed confidence in her city’s ability to deliver a memorable Games.
The Paris Olympics have concluded with a resounding success, showcasing breathtaking athletic performances, innovative sporting events, and a celebration of the Olympic spirit. The handover to Los Angeles marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Olympic journey, promising a vibrant and inclusive Games in 2028.
