Team USA wrapped up the 2024 Paris Olympics in spectacular fashion during the closing ceremony on Sunday, August 11. The event featured a high-energy performance by the French band Phoenix, led by frontman Thomas Mars, who brought an extra level of excitement to the festivities. Mars, 47, made a memorable appearance by crowd-surfing among the American athletes, with members of Team USA helping him navigate the enthusiastic crowd. The moment prompted a playful comment on social media, suggesting Mars was “advocating for crowd surfing as a new Olympic sport.”
The American delegation stood out not only for their spirited participation but also for their impressive medal haul. Team USA topped the medal count with 126 medals, including 44 gold, 42 silver, and 40 bronze, equaling China’s record for the most gold medals in Olympic history. This achievement marks a historic milestone as the first time the U.S. has shared the top spot for gold medals.
The U.S. team set several new records throughout the games. Swimmer Katie Ledecky clinched gold in the 1500m freestyle with a time of 15:30.02, surpassing her previous Olympic record. Gretchen Walsh shattered the 100m butterfly record with a time of 55.37, and Bobby Finke set a new world record in the men’s 1500m freestyle at 14:30.67. Walsh, alongside Regan Smith, Lilly King, and Torri Huske, also broke the world record in the 4x100m medley relay, while Huske, Ryan Murphy, and Nic Fink set a new record in the mixed 4x100m relay.
Gymnast Simone Biles also made history, becoming the most decorated U.S. gymnast in Olympic history. Biles won three gold medals and one silver in Paris, surpassing Shannon Miller’s record. Describing her experience as a “redemption tour,” Biles reflected on her previous Olympics in Tokyo, where she had to withdraw from several events due to disorientation caused by the “twisties.”
After her final competition in Paris, Biles shared her emotional reaction, noting that the reality of the games ending had not fully set in. “I don’t think I will until one day I decide to retire,” Biles said. She revealed that she was overwhelmed with emotion after returning to the Olympic village, shedding tears with her teammate Jordan Chiles. “I was so proud, happy, bittersweet that the journey’s over. It’s so crazy. It happened too quick. My third Olympics!” she added.
While Biles has yet to decide on her participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, she remains open to the possibility. “You know, you never say never,” she said. “The next Olympics is on home turf. I’m just going to relax and see where life takes me.”
Regardless of her future in gymnastics, Biles hopes to be remembered for her passion for the sport, her enjoyment, and her authentic self.
Related topic:
Yseult Shines at 2024 Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony
Who Is King George in Country Music?
15 Different Types Of Country Music You Should Know