Medal Race
Paris 2024: Which Countries Are Poised for Olympic Glory?
Top countries to watch at Paris 2024 Olympics: USA, China, Great Britain, France, and Australia.
As the world eagerly anticipates the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, the competition among nations to secure the most medals is heating up. Based on recent projections and historical performances, several countries stand out as the top contenders. Here’s a detailed look at the nations that are expected to dominate the medal table at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
United States: Continuing the Legacy
The United States has a storied history of Olympic success, and the Paris 2024 Games are expected to be no different. According to Gracenote's Virtual Medal Table (VMT) forecast, Team USA is projected to win a staggering 123 medals, including 37 golds. This would mark an improvement over their performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where they secured 113 medals.
The U.S. team’s strength lies in its diversity and depth, with medals expected in 26 different sports. Athletics and swimming remain the cornerstone of their success, accounting for nearly half of the projected medals. With star athletes like swimmer Caeleb Dressel and gymnast Simone Biles likely to compete, the U.S. is poised to maintain its dominance on the global stage.
China: A Rising Powerhouse
China has steadily risen as a formidable force in the Olympics, and Paris 2024 is set to continue this trend. Gracenote predicts that Chinese athletes will win 87 medals, including 36 golds. This performance would be on par with their showing in Tokyo, where they won 89 medals.
China’s strengths are well-distributed across several sports, including diving, shooting, weightlifting, and table tennis. The country’s investment in sports infrastructure and athlete development programs has paid off, making it a consistent top contender. With a focus on precision sports and a growing presence in swimming and athletics, China is expected to challenge the U.S. for the top spot in the medal tally.
Great Britain: Sustaining Success
Great Britain has enjoyed a remarkable run of success in recent Olympic Games, and the trend is expected to continue in Paris. The VMT forecast projects that Team GB will win 62 medals, including 14 golds. This would mark the fourth consecutive Summer Games where Britain surpasses the 60-medal mark.
British athletes have shown prowess in a variety of sports, including cycling, rowing, and athletics. The nation’s success is built on a broad base, with medal winners in at least 20 sports. Notable athletes like cyclist Laura Kenny and swimmer Adam Peaty are expected to lead the charge for Team GB, ensuring a strong performance in Paris.
France: The Host Nation Advantage
As the host nation, France is expected to see a significant boost in its medal tally. Gracenote’s forecast predicts that French athletes will win 56 medals, including 29 golds, nearly tripling their gold medal count from Tokyo 2020. This would be France’s best Olympic performance since 1900.
The home advantage often plays a crucial role in the Olympics, providing athletes with familiar environments and robust local support. France’s strengths lie in judo, fencing, and handball, but the nation is also expected to excel in emerging sports like skateboarding and surfing. With the added motivation of competing on home soil, French athletes are poised for a historic performance.
Australia: Riding the Wave of Success
Australia has a rich Olympic history, particularly in swimming, and Paris 2024 is expected to be another successful outing. The VMT forecast projects that Australian athletes will win 48 medals, including 13 golds. This would be an improvement over their performance in Tokyo, where they won 46 medals.
Swimming remains Australia’s strongest suit, with the nation consistently producing world-class swimmers. The success of athletes like Emma McKeon and Ariarne Titmus is expected to continue, contributing significantly to Australia’s medal haul. Additionally, Australia’s prowess in sports like cycling, rowing, and athletics will ensure a well-rounded performance in Paris.
Other Notable Contenders
While the top five nations are expected to dominate the medal table, several other countries are also poised for strong performances:
- Japan: Following a record-breaking performance as the host nation in Tokyo, Japan is projected to win 46 medals in Paris. The country’s strengths in judo, gymnastics, and swimming will be key to its success.
- Italy: Italy is forecasted to win 46 medals, with strong showings in fencing, cycling, and athletics.
- Germany: Germany is expected to secure 37 medals, continuing its tradition of excellence in sports like rowing, equestrian, and athletics.
- Netherlands: The Netherlands is projected to win 34 medals, with cycling and speed skating being their standout sports.
- South Korea: South Korea is expected to win 29 medals, with strengths in archery, taekwondo, and short track speed skating.
The Paris 2024 Olympics promise to be a thrilling spectacle of athletic prowess and national pride. The United States, China, Great Britain, France, and Australia are the top contenders, each bringing unique strengths and star athletes to the competition. As the countdown to the Games continues, these nations will be fine-tuning their preparations, aiming to achieve Olympic glory on the grandest stage of all.