By Gyani Patel, Stentorian Staff Writer
The 2024 Olympics have once again brought the world together, celebrating athletic achievement and cultivating a sense of global unity. This international event that goes beyond borders allows athletes from all sorts of diverse places to come together to compete, share their stories, and inspire millions. This year, taking place in Paris, France, the Olympics have captured the world’s attention with its grandeur.
One of the highlights of this year’s games has been Women’s Gymnastics. Often considered one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, Simone Biles has returned to the Olympics with a determination to add to her already impressive legacy. After taking a step back during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics to prioritize her mental health, Biles has come back even stronger. Her performances in Paris demonstrate her extraordinary talent but also showcase her perseverance and dedication to the sport. Biles has already made her mark in history by winning gold medals in the team, all-around, and vault events. Her routines, being of immense difficulty, are almost perfectly executed, leaving judges and audience members alike, mesmerized.
However, the 2024 Olympic Games have not been without their controversies. The boxing events have sparked ongoing debates over gender eligibility. Algerian boxer Imane Khelif and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting were disqualified from the 2023 World Championships due to gender tests by the International Boxing Association (IBA). Despite this, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) allowed them to compete in Paris, which only furthered the discussions about fairness and the integrity of Women’s Boxing. The IOC and IBA are now in a public argument, with the IOC criticizing the IBA’s actions and transparency, while the IBA defends its stance. This controversy raises more general questions about gender testing and discrimination in sports, overshadowing many athletes’ achievements during the games.
The Paris 2024 Olympics have been a tribute to exceptional skill, remarkable achievements, and perseverance. Athletes have inspired millions with their dedication and talent, while the events displayed stories of resilience and triumph from competitors of all backgrounds. However, the games have also highlighted ongoing issues within sports, such as the debates surrounding gender eligibility. Despite these controversies, the unwavering commitment and years of hard work from each athlete have resulted in performances that will be remembered for years to come, making this year’s Olympics a truly spectacular event for fans worldwide.