The 2024 Paris Paralympics have officially wrapped up, and Paris has said its goodbyes to an incredible Summer Games. Over the past two weeks, the world’s top athletes competed for their shot at glory. The closing ceremony at Stade de France was a vibrant and emotional send-off, featuring powerful speeches and amazing performances. With the stadium packed to its 64,000-person capacity, everyone came together to celebrate the end of a summer filled with Olympic and Paralympic magic, while 24 artists from the electronic music scene kept the party going.

China ruled the medal count at the Paris Paralympics, racking up a jaw-dropping 95 golds and 222 total medals. Great Britain followed up strong, landing second place with 49 golds and 125 total medals. Meanwhile, Team USA proudly claimed third place, bringing home 36 golds out of 105 total medals (including 42 silver and 27 bronze). At the closing ceremony, Team USA athletes Ellie Marks, a swimmer, and wheelchair basketballer Paul Schulte carried the American flag as they bid farewell to the City of Light. Now, let’s take a deeper dive into Team USA’s medal haul!

A look into team USA’s Paris Paralympics medals

Team USA shone brightly in both track and pool events, securing 10 golds in each sport. Their performances in para track and field earned them an impressive 38 total medals, while para swimming followed closely with 30 medals. These athletes showcased their exceptional talent and determination, making waves and leaving the competition in awe.

But the gold rush didn’t stop there! In para equestrian, the team claimed an impressive 5 gold medals, showcasing their versatility across the board. Para cycling followed with 4 golds, making every turn count on the road. The para triathlon squad added 3 golds to the tally, proving their endurance and grit. In para archery, the Americans hit the bullseye twice, earning 2 gold medals. Rounding off the medal haul, the wheelchair basketball team and sitting volleyball squad each brought home 1 gold. Talk about a powerhouse performance!

But of course, the medal haul wouldn’t be complete without some record-breaking moments and heartwarming scenes that made the crowd go “aww.” So, what were these unforgettable highlights that truly stole the show and captured the audience’s hearts?

USA’s heartwarming moments and record-breaking achievements at Paris Paralympics

Remember when Tara Davis-Woodhall snagged the gold in the long jump at the Paris Olympics and dashed straight into her husband’s arms in the stands? Well, Hunter Woodhall gave us a sweet déjà vu moment of his own. After winning his first gold ever at the Olympics in the 400m T62, he jumped off the podium and ran into the stands, recreating Tara’s celebration. “This is my first gold, it’s my first time winning any major championship, and they couldn’t pick a better one,” Woodhall said after the race. They shared a heartfelt embrace that seemed to shout, “We did it, babe!” 

And it doesn’t end there! Jessica Long, the swimming legend, dazzled by defending her 100m S8 butterfly title at the Paris Paralympics. Not only did she snag her second gold in Paris, but she also added to her already epic collection of 18 golds and 31 total medals, making her the second-most decorated American Paralympian ever. At 32, she hit the wall in 1:10.59, continuing her winning streak from Beijing 2008, London 2012, and Tokyo 2020. Looking ahead, Long hinted that the 2028 Games might be her swan song, saying, “I’m coming towards the end of my career – I hope to end in LA.”

Do you think that’s all? Nope, there’s more! The men’s wheelchair basketball team made history by becoming the first ever to snag three gold medals at the Paralympics. On September 7th at the Bercy Arena in Paris, Team USA pulled off a nail-biting 73-69 win against Great Britain. What a way to top off an amazing run! Steve Serio, who led Team USA to victory, reflected on the moment with heartfelt words:“ This is what dreams are made of, man. The totality of the journey, how much this team has grown up together. We’ve won together, we’ve lost together. To cap off my Team USA career with a win like this, with 12 athletes that I love and a great staff behind me, this is what dreams are made of.” In the game, Serio was a powerhouse, scoring 24 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out eight assists.

But hold on, there’s more to celebrate! Team USA dazzled at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, adding another gold to their impressive tally in Para Equestrian. On Friday, the American squad clinched the Team gold, marking their third title in the Paris 2024 Para Equestrian lineup. Fiona Howard, riding Diamond Dunes, and Rebecca Hart with Floratina each secured individual golds, while Roxanne Trunnell, who previously won silver in Grade I with Fan Tastico H, also contributed to the team’s triumph. Howard’s jaw-dropping score of 80.000% was the highest individual score of the Games, propelling the team to victory. Meanwhile, Trunnell and Hart delivered standout performances with scores of 77.000% and 78.567%, respectively, sealing the gold for Team USA with flair and finesse.

The incredible medal haul and unforgettable moments just keep coming, and we’re all as spellbound as ever. From record-breaking feats to heartwarming celebrations, Team USA’s historic Paralympic season has truly been one for the books. We’d love to hear your thoughts—what do you think of Team USA’s stunning Paralympic journey, and which moment made you cheer the loudest? Share your reflections and let’s revel together in these amazing achievements!