In a riveting display of athleticism and national pride, the 2024 Paris Olympic Games have witnessed intense competition among the world's greatest athletes. As spectators at home eagerly track the medal count, the United States, China, and host country France emerged as frontrunners by the start of the second week.

The United States has surged ahead, securing the highest number of overall medals and taking the lead in gold medals as well. American gymnast Simone Biles has been a standout performer, etching her name in the annals of Olympic history. Biles, touted as the most decorated Olympic gymnast, clinched a gold medal with the women's team, followed by individual gold medals in the all-around and vault competitions. She also claimed a silver medal in beam, further cementing her status as a global icon in gymnastics.

Not to be outdone, swimmer Katie Ledecky dazzled in the pool, earning the title of the most decorated female Olympian. Ledecky's remarkable achievements in swimming propelled her to a series of wins, securing numerous medals for Team USA.

The U.S. women's rugby sevens team added another milestone to Team USA's Olympic journey, earning their first-ever medal in the bronze medal game against Australia. This historic achievement marks the first rugby medal for the United States since the men's team won gold at the 1924 Olympics, also hosted in Paris, nearly a century ago.

Debate has ensued online regarding the criteria for success on the Olympic leaderboard, with some arguing for the significance of overall medals while others emphasize the importance of gold medals. China, regardless of the metric used, maintained a strong presence in the medal count and claimed the second position as the final week began. The country showcased dominance in shooting and diving, with their swim teams also making multiple podium appearances. Notably, the Chinese men's team triumphed over Team USA in the 4x100 medley relay, a race traditionally dominated by the United States.

The sheer volume of athletes sent to Paris has given some countries a slight advantage. With a delegation of 594 athletes, the U.S. boasts the largest representation, followed closely by France with 571 athletes.

On the track, American sprinter Noah Lyles left audiences in awe with a stellar performance, winning gold in the men's 100-meter race. Meanwhile, Gabby Thomas secured another gold for Team USA in the women's 200-meter race, with teammate Brittany Brown capturing the bronze medal.

With their impressive start at the Paris Olympics, the United States is aiming to replicate the formidable presence they showcased at the 2020 Tokyo Games, where they secured a staggering 113 medals, the most by any country. China finished second with 89 medals.

However, this year, the absence of Russia looms large as the International Olympic Committee banned the country, along with Belarus, in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Competitors from these nations are permitted to participate only as "Individual Neutral Athletes," and their medals will not contribute to their respective nations.

As the Paris Olympic Games continue to captivate sports enthusiasts worldwide, spectators eagerly anticipate the unfolding of more thrilling moments of triumph and national glory.