The 2024 Paris Games are drawing to a close, with Team USA holding a commanding lead in the overall medal count. However, the race for the most gold medals is still up for grabs and could come down to the wire.
As the competition enters its final day, the United States and China are locked in a tight battle for gold. With just a few events left, every gold medal matters as both countries vie for the top spot.
What to Watch on Day 16 of the Paris Olympics
Which Country Has the Most Olympic Medals?
The United States currently leads with 122 total medals, including 38 gold, 42 silver, and 42 bronze. Meanwhile, China is sitting in second place with 90 medals overall. While China may not be able to catch up in the overall count, the gold medal race remains close.
This year marks the eighth consecutive Summer Games where the United States has secured the most overall medals. However, the battle for gold is still anyone’s game.
Who Has the Most Gold Medals at the Paris Olympics?
Heading into the final day, China holds a slight edge over the U.S. in the gold medal count, with 39 to 38. The competition could go either way, with China potentiall winning more gold medals on the last day.
The highlight of the day will be the women’s basketball final, which could ultimately decide the gold medal winner. Both the United States and China finished on top of the medal table in Tokyo 2021.
Key Olympic Events on Sunday
Key events to watch on the final day include the women’s marathon, the U.S. men’s water polo team, the U.S. women’s volleyball team, and the women’s basketball final.
The Americans are aiming to win their eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal in women’s basketball, a feat that would set a new record in Olympic history.
Closing Ceremony Details
The Closing Ceremony is set to take place at the iconic Stade de France, with a star-studded celebration expected. The handover from Paris 2024 to Los Angeles 2028 will also be featured.
After Paris, the focus will shift to the next Winter Games in Milano Cortina, just a year and a half away.
It’s been an incredible journey at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and as the Games come to a close, the world will be watching to see who emerges victorious in the gold medal race. The Closing Ceremony promises to be a spectacular conclusion to this exciting chapter in Olympic history.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.