The 2024 Paris Olympics will go down in history for its entertaining atmosphere, the numerous legacies created, and the record breaking performances from various athletes. These athletes come from around the world to compete while representing their country and striving to make it proud.
The United States of America has once again showcased an unmatchable performance through reaching for even greater heights. Fans across the country have witnessed the US break down barricades and triumphantly march their way to the top.
As the Paris Olympics came to an end, the USA celebrated their 40 gold medals, tied with the 40 gold medals earned by China. The Americans also received 44 silver medals and 42 bronze, tying together for a total of 126 medals, which was at least 35 more than any other country.
The United States did have the largest national delegation at this years’ Olympics with 592 athletes in total, which does play a factor in setting the nation up for success. Other big countries such as France, Australia, Germany, and China also send large numbers of athletes to the Olympics. Beneficial and well sustained economies play a factor in this and can help athletes become accustomed to more and earlier opportunities.
However, nothing can take away from the spectacular performances of the athletes who continue to push themselves and reach success. The displays of talent, athleticism, grit, perseverance, and hard work were significant components in producing so many medals and memories for the US.
Social media has become a big influence in keeping people informed and up to date with the Olympics as well as other sporting events. It has also brought more attention to specific athletes and programs that are not as well known or viewed, such as the USA women’s rugby team. Llona Maher, one of the women’s rugby players, gained an abundance of fame from posting her viral glimpses into the Olympic Village. She effectively brought a sense of humor, as well as further attention to her sport as the Americans made history and secured a bronze medal in the last seconds of their game against Australia.
It is clear that the incredible abilities of athletes participating in the Olympics are only improving. Athletes are indulging in more extensive training which raises standards and breaks various records. Certain athletes even set out to break their own impressive records. USA women’s swimmer Katie Ledecky now owns the 20 fastest women’s 1500m freestyle times in history.
As records continue to be broken, retired athletes are cheering on and clearing the path for the younger incoming athletes chasing their dreams. Retired US men’s swimmer Michael Phelps, who now helps coach other athletes, has watched his last record be beaten by Leon Marchand of France. However, Phelps displayed nothing but joy and admiration for the young athlete making history.
The United States continued to dominate in certain areas of the competition. The nations’ men’s and women’s basketball teams both won gold, effectively adding on to old legacies and creating new ones. This is now the men’s fifth consecutive olympic games winning gold, and the women’s eighth, both being remarkable feats.
However, the United States are not always the favorites in numerous events throughout the Olympics. Against all odds and predictions, certain US athletes were able to pull off major upsets, giving the nation a reason to celebrate and basque in triumph. The USA produced a huge upset in the men’s 1500 meter run as 2 American athletes walked away with medals, Cole Hocker taking home the gold.
With a new coach, young players, and extensive adversity, many people overlooked the US women’s soccer team’s chances in the Olympics this year. However, despite challenges and a grueling 6 games in 16 days, the US women came out on top and secured the gold medal against Brazil.
The Olympics is a setting where new athletes gain attention, such as US men’s gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik who won bronze with the rest of his team, as well as a setting where legends come back for more, such as US women’s gymnast Simone Biles, who has reestablished her unmatched performances winning three gold and one silver medal.
Throughout these Olympics, the USA has seen an extraordinary amount of support, especially that of Snoop Dogg, who was a torch bearer and correspondent that brought a sense of humor and enjoyment of the moment to the games. The Olympics help to draw nations together to support a team and outcome.
Spectators were able to witness the idea that the Olympics are not just about the sports, because they actually encapsulate a centuries old idea of bringing people together and seeing athletes work hard and achieve their dreams.
This year’s Paris Olympics inspired millions of people watching, and nations around the world got to celebrate both their wins and the respective athletes who performed on a worldwide stage. The United States displayed a spectacular performance filled with passion and the manifestation of human endeavor.
