In an exhilarating two weeks of sporting prowess, the Paris Olympics 2024 came to a close with the United States clinching the first-place position on the medal table. The US contingent secured a total of 40 gold medals, tied with China, but edged into the leading position based on the total number of medals won, with an impressive haul of 126.

Heading into the final day of competition, the US was only one gold medal behind China, and expectations were high for the American athletes to deliver in the remaining events. Jennifer Valente, the reigning Olympic champion in omnium, rose to the occasion, securing a gold medal and bringing the US tantalizingly close to the top spot. But it was the women's basketball team that secured the decisive victory, defeating France in a thrilling final seconds match to secure the 40th gold for the Americans.

The US dominance in women's basketball continued, with the team winning the event for the eighth consecutive time since 1996. The victory not only solidified their status as Olympic powerhouses but also extended their remarkable winning streak at the Games, standing at an impressive 60 games.

China, with a tally of 40 gold medals, matched the US in terms of top honors but trailed behind in the overall medal count, securing 91 medals. Japan secured the third position, finishing with 20 gold medals, mirroring their result from the Tokyo Olympics held in 2021. Australia achieved their best-ever performance, securing 18 gold medals, and finished fourth on the medal table. Host nation France celebrated their highest result since 1900, when Paris last hosted the Games, finishing fifth with 16 gold medals.

The Paris Olympics 2024 also witnessed Team GB's performance, who secured the seventh position on the medal table, their lowest since 2004. However, when rankings are determined by total medals rather than gold, Great Britain rises to the third position, with an impressive count of 65 medals, one more than their tally in the Tokyo Olympics.

Looking forward, all eyes are set on the next edition of the Summer Olympics, to be hosted by Los Angeles in four years' time. The United States, accustomed to dominance in the Summer Games, will seek to maintain their reputation by aiming for the top spot on home soil. However, the Winter Olympics have historically proved more challenging for the US, with their last table-topping performance dating back to 1932. Norway, with a population of less than 6 million, has emerged victorious in the Winter Games for the past two editions, demonstrating their prowess in cold-weather sports.

As the curtain falls on the Paris Olympics 2024, the world witnessed exceptional performances, remarkable achievements, and the enduring spirit of athleticism. The medals won by each nation represent the dedication and determination of thousands of athletes who left no stone unturned in pursuit of glory.