The United States led the medal count at the Paris Olympics, achieving a remarkable total of 126 medals, with 40 of them being gold. The intense competition for golds, regarded as the most prestigious medals, saw the U.S. and China finishing with an equal number of gold medals at forty each. However, China secured 91 total medals overall, solidifying its position as a key competitor against the United States in the Summer Games.
In contrast, Russia, once a dominant force in the Olympics, had a minimal presence in Paris, sending only about fifteen athletes and struggling to make a significant impact on the medal board.
The U.S. excelled primarily in swimming and track, with swimmers like Katie Ledecky and Torri Huske contributing to 28 medals, including 8 gold in the pool. On the track, American athletes showcased even greater success, securing 34 total medals, 14 of which were golden. Combined, these two sports accounted for around half of the U.S.’s total medal haul.
China’s golds were predominantly acquired through diving, shooting, table tennis, and wrestling, indicating a different focus in their approach to the games.
Additionally, the host nation, France, performed well with 64 medals in total, including 16 gold, highlighted by the emergence of young swimmer Léon Marchand, who took home four gold and one bronze. Australia also made a notable impression with 53 medals, 18 of them gold, showcasing their prowess despite a relatively small population of 26 million.
Moreover, the International Olympic Committee introduced a team of refugee athletes at this year’s games, with Cindy Djanjeu Ngamba from Cameroon earning the team’s sole bronze medal in boxing.