The 2020 Olympics were different from previous ones as they were delayed by a year and had few audience members due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this didn't stop athletes from breaking records and making their mark. Fast forward three years later, and the Olympics are back on track with the same level of excitement and competitiveness. Here are some highlights from the 2024 Olympic Games that came from Team USA:
Noah Lyles' Photo Finish Victory On Olympics Track
Noah Lyles secured an incredibly close victory in the 100-meter sprint at this year's Olympics, edging out silver medalist Kishane Thompson by a mere .005 seconds. Despite facing backlash for comments made about an NBA team, Lyles silenced his critics with a thrilling photo finish. This historic race goes down as the fastest in history among all competitors, further solidifying Lyles' status as a top contender. With the upcoming 200-meter race, all eyes are on Lyles as he tries to potentially achieve a rare back-to-back gold medal win, a feat not accomplished since the days of Carl Lewis. Can Lyles achieve this and add on to his legacy?
Sha’ Carri Richason Is Back AND Better
Upon learning that Sha’carri couldn't compete in the 2020 Olympics due to a failed drug test, the world was left in disbelief. Having had such an amazing season with outstanding performances, Richardson had become the athlete to watch. Despite this setback, Richardson managed to pull herself together to demonstrate that she was here to stay. She went on to achieve a silver medal in the 100-meter sprint event, marking her first-ever Olympic medal. This was an incredible feat for an Olympic debut. Richardson's journey doesn't end there, as she is also set to compete in the 4x100-meter relay. With her performance and determination, it's likely that the gold will soon be hers.
Simone Biles SOARS
The incomparable queen of gymnastics continues to dominate. After overcoming mental health challenges at the 2024 Olympics, Biles made a triumphant return to the Paris stage. Her performance in Paris showcased her exceptional talent and unwavering determination. Biles, alongside Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey, clinched the Gold in the team all-around event, making them the oldest team to accomplish this feat and earning them the moniker "Golden Girls". Biles's historic all-around victory made her the oldest Olympic women's gymnastics champion. Additionally, Biles became the most decorated gymnast in history. It begs the question: Is there anything Simone Biles cannot do?
USA Men’s Gymnastics Being Put Back On the Map
Remember these names: Brody Malone, Frederick Richard, Asher Hong, Paul Juda, and Stephen Nedoroscik, because these gentlemen made gymnastics history. The men’s gymnastics team ended a 16-year drought and secured a bronze medal for the US team in the team all-around event. This achievement is significant, especially after many years of men’s gymnastics being overlooked. The men's performance showcased exceptional talent and teamwork throughout the whole competition. Each of them competed as if they had something to prove, and indeed, they did. This could mark the beginning of a new era for American men’s gymnastics.
Katie Ledecky: Gold Standard
Ledecky’s performances at this year’s Olympics were nothing short of extraordinary as she continued her dominance in the distance freestyle events. Her most notable achievement is her fourth consecutive gold medal in the 800-meter freestyle. She now ties with gymnast Larisa Latynina for the most Olympic gold medals by a female athlete. Ledecky also took home gold in the 1500 meters, beating the competition by twenty seconds. The "Queen of the Pool" is on her way to legendary status and is forging her name as one of the greatest swimmers of all time.
Bobby Finke: The Distance Dominator
Another USA swimmer has etched his way into history. Not only did Finke win the US another Gold medal, but he broke the world record as well. His endurance and athletic prowess are what got him to that wall. He executed a perfectly paced race and stayed in the lead the whole time. Finke is now highly regarded as one of the greatest distance swimmers of all time.
Valarie Allman: A Discus Dominator
Valarie Allman's remarkable performance in the field events earned her a well-deserved gold medal for the discus throw. Her outstanding achievement makes her the first woman from the US to secure consecutive gold medals in this event. The US is dominating in both track and on the field making this a strong Olympic for the US team.
Caroline Marks Claimed Gold in Women's Surfing
The United States is making waves not only on land but also in the water. Caroline Marks' historic Olympic gold medal win marked a significant moment for women's surfing. Her victory exemplified her extraordinary skill, unwavering determination, and ability to thrive under immense pressure. This accomplishment not only reflects the increasing popularity and acknowledgment of surfing as a competitive sport, but also represents a significant leap forward for women's inclusion in the Olympic Games.
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