USA Edges Out China for Paris 2024 Olympics Top Spot; India Finishes 71st
USA Claims Top Spot with Last-Minute Triumph
New Delhi: The United States emerged victorious at the Paris 2024 Olympics, clinching the top position in a dramatic finish. The US delegation concluded the Games with a total of 40 gold medals, matching China but surpassing them based on a higher number of silver medals. This marked the USA’s continued dominance in global sports, becoming the only nation to secure over a hundred Olympic medals in 2024.
The decisive moment came in one of the most thrilling finals in Olympic history. The US women’s basketball team narrowly defeated France 67-66 to claim the gold medal. This victory secured their eighth consecutive Olympic gold and cemented the USA’s position at the top of the medal table. The last-minute triumph was a significant boost, as the USA had previously edged out China by a single gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games.
China Finishes Just Behind with Impressive Performance
China, which had led the medal standings for a few days, finished just behind the USA with 40 golds, 27 silver, and 23 bronze medals. Despite their impressive showing, the higher number of silver medals earned by the US determined the final ranking.
India’s Disappointing Finish and Standout Performance
India finished 71st on the medal table, a disappointing result with only six medals, none of which were gold. Neeraj Chopra’s silver in the men’s javelin throw on August 8 was the standout performance for India. The nation’s overall tally reflects challenges faced by Indian athletes in this edition of the Games.
Pakistan’s Return and Notable Achievement
Pakistan made a notable return to the Olympic rankings after a 32-year hiatus, finishing 62nd. Arshad Nadeem’s gold medal in the men’s javelin throw marked a significant achievement for the country.
Japan and France’s Strong Performances
Japan secured third place with 20 gold medals, showcasing a strong performance across various sports. Hosts France, despite their impressive run, ended up fifth with 16 golds and a total of 64 medals. Great Britain, which started the Games strongly, fell to seventh place by the end of the competition.
Individual Highlights and Records
In individual highlights, French swimmer Leon Marchand stood out with four gold medals and one bronze, the only athlete to achieve such a feat at the Paris Games. Ten athletes, including US gymnast Simone Biles, won three gold medals each. China’s Zhang Yufei earned the most individual medals, with one silver and five bronze.
Shifting Dynamics of Global Sports Power
The Paris 2024 Olympics not only celebrated extraordinary athletic achievements but also showcased the shifting dynamics of global sports power. With the USA and China vying closely for dominance and new contenders making their mark, the future of international athletics promises to be as exciting as ever.
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