PARIS OLYMPICS 2024: An Epitome of Sporting Thrill and Global Harmony.
By David Ojo.
The curtains have drawn on the 2024 Summer Olympics, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable moments, records broken, and a profound sense of global unity. Held in the iconic city of Paris, the Games marked a triumphant return to the French capital, 100 years after it last hosted the Olympics in 1924. The Paris 2024 Olympics, which ran from July 26 to August 11, was not only a celebration of athletic excellence but also a testament to the resilience and spirit of humanity.
©Punch
The competition was fierce, with numerous records broken. The United States led the overall medal count, securing 126 medals, including 40 golds, a number matched by China. Japan, Australia, and the Netherlands also performed exceptionally well, maintaining their dominance in sports like judo, swimming, and cycling. The Olympics saw the debut of several new sports, including breakdancing, which made its Olympic debut with impressive performances that captivated younger audiences. Skateboarding, surfing, and sport climbing, introduced in Tokyo 2020, also returned to great fanfare, further cementing their popularity among both athletes and fans.
France, the host nation, asserted their presence too. The host nation excelled in several events, notably in Fencing and Judo, securing a total of 64 medals. The French crowd was particularly electrified by the victories of their athletes in these traditional sports, which are deeply rooted in the nation’s culture.
Just as the festival pleased its fans, it unified its lovers across the world as well. The 2024 Paris Olympics, like its predecessors, served as a powerful symbol of global unity. Since its inception, the modern Olympics have brought together nations from around the world, fostering peace and understanding through sports. This tradition, revived in 1896, has seen athletes from different cultures compete on the same stage, breaking down barriers and creating moments of shared humanity.
©The Telegraph
The 2024 Games continued this legacy, with athletes from over 200 nations competing in Paris, embodying the Olympic motto “Faster, Higher, Stronger—Together.” The Paris Games highlighted the power of sports to unite even the most divided regions. Joint teams from North and South Korea and athletes from conflict zones competing side by side exemplified how the Olympics can transcend political and cultural differences. The event also showcased the growing inclusivity of the Games, with more countries than ever before winning medals and being represented on the podium.
Throughout history, the Olympics have been a stage where humanity’s shared values are celebrated. The 2024 Games reaffirmed the importance of international cooperation, not only in sports but in addressing global challenges. As the world faces increasing division, the Olympics remain a beacon of hope, reminding us that through unity, we can achieve greatness together.