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!”