Paris 2024 Olympics Day 16 Recap and Highlights – August 11

The 2024 Paris Olympics have come to a close, but not before delivering an unforgettable final day filled with remarkable performances and historic achievements. From the U.S. women’s basketball team securing their eighth consecutive gold medal to Sifan Hassan’s incredible treble, the Games concluded with a celebration of unity, perseverance, and athletic excellence.

U.S. Women’s Basketball Makes History

The U.S. women’s basketball team faced a tough challenge in the gold medal match against France, but they managed to secure a narrow 67-66 victory, extending their Olympic win streak to an astonishing 61 games. This win marks the team’s eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal, a feat unmatched by any other team in Olympic history.

France put up a strong fight, with the game tied at halftime. However, the U.S. team, led by A’ja Wilson’s 21 points and 13 rebounds, found a way to pull ahead in the final stretch. France nearly forced overtime with a last-second shot by Gabby Williams, but her foot was inside the 3-point arc, sealing the victory for the U.S.

Sifan Hassan’s Remarkable Treble

Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands achieved an extraordinary feat by competing in and medaling in the 5,000-meter, 10,000-meter, and marathon races at the Paris Olympics. Hassan’s journey began with bronze medals in both the 5,000-meter and 10,000-meter events earlier in the week.

On the final day of the Games, Hassan not only won gold in the marathon but also broke the Olympic record with a time of 2:22:55. This accomplishment marks the first time in 70 years that an athlete has medaled in all three events at the same Olympic Games.

U.S. Men’s Water Polo Secures Bronze

The U.S. men’s water polo team ended their Olympic campaign on a high note, defeating Hungary in a penalty shootout to claim the bronze medal. This victory marks the team’s first Olympic medal since the 2008 Beijing Games, where they won silver.

Goalie Adrian Weinberg played a crucial role in the team’s success, making 16 saves throughout the match. The U.S. team’s ability to prevail in penalty shootouts proved to be a key factor, as they also eliminated Australia in the quarterfinal round via penalties.

Italy Dominates Women’s Volleyball

The Italian women’s volleyball team made history by winning their first-ever Olympic medal, and it was gold. Their journey to the top of the podium was nothing short of dominant, as they won 17 consecutive sets after dropping the second set in their opening match against the Dominican Republic.

Throughout the knockout stage, Italy was nearly untouchable, with only one of their nine sets decided by a margin of fewer than three points. This impressive run culminated in a resounding victory in the gold medal match, cementing Italy’s place in Olympic volleyball history.

Closing Ceremony and Handover to Los Angeles 2028

As the Paris Olympics drew to a close, the world’s top athletes gathered for the closing ceremony to celebrate the competition, unity, and perseverance that shaped the Games. The ceremony featured stunning visuals, including a performance by Swiss pianist Alain Roche, who played “Hymn To Apollo” while suspended in the air.

The ceremony also marked the official handover of the Olympic Games to Los Angeles, which will host the 2028 Summer Olympics. Tom Cruise, a well-known American actor, participated in the handover by leaping off the Stade de France, symbolizing the transition from Paris to Los Angeles.

Key Takeaways from the 2024 Paris Olympics

• The U.S. women’s basketball team made history by winning their eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal.
• Sifan Hassan achieved a remarkable treble by medaling in the 5,000-meter, 10,000-meter, and marathon events.
• The U.S. men’s water polo team won bronze, their first Olympic medal since 2008.
• Italy’s women’s volleyball team dominated the competition, winning their first-ever Olympic gold medal.
• The closing ceremony celebrated the athletes’ achievements and marked the handover to Los Angeles for the 2028 Summer Olympics.

The 2024 Paris Olympics will be remembered for the incredible displays of athleticism, sportsmanship, and unity. As the world looks ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Games, the legacy of the Paris Olympics will continue to inspire athletes and fans alike.