As the Summer Olympics wrapped up in Paris, there is something that stands out. The American women have overrun their male peers, winning 26 gold medals compared to 17.
This historical achievement goes way beyond numbers, it truly shows the impact that women’s sports has on the global stage.
Yet these achievements and conversations about women’s sports often lack the enthusiasm seen in male-dominated sports. Throughout history, media coverage of female athletes has been pushed to the sidelines, making it difficult to gain the respect and recognition that they truly deserve.
However, the 2024 Summer Olympics marked a turning point for womens athletics. Media coverage of womens sports went through the roof, leading to in-depth features and real-time updates. This sudden shift in focus has started a new perception, and also gained deeper appreciation for women’s contribution to athletics.
The dominance of female athletes was clear throughout this summer’s Olympic games.
Sarah Hildebrandt showcased her wrestling skill, while Katie Ledecky broke records in the pool, solidifying her status as one the most decorated female athletes of all time. The womens teams also excelled, notably the Womens Rugby Sevens who won bronze, marking the sport’s first Olympic medal since its return in 2016. Their powerful leadership and bold personalities, especially from player Ilona Maher, helped them gain a massive following on social media, proving that women can be celebrated in all sports, marking a significant cultural shift.
Witnessing these events was an emotional roller coaster. I’ll never forget the excitement of the Womens Rugby Sevens taking their bronze medal, or the adrenaline rush of Lee Kiefer winning gold in fencing.
When I look at images from many of the women’s victories, I almost feel as if I understand what they’re going through. The athletes’ happiness exposed the childhood dreams of young ladies who had long awaited these moments. With an increasing demand for their stories, these athletes are inspiring a new generation and transforming the future of women’s sports.
In a world where sports often reflect societal values, the achievements of women in Paris signal a growing acknowledgment of their importance in athletics. The American women’s achievements at the 2024 Olympics represent more than just a statistic. Sports are often defined strictly through numbers, which has historically undermined women’s success in sports, from professional athletes to high school c-teams.
This year’s Olympics signified a turning point in history, as a real sense of inclusion slowly arises.
The narrative is changing. As we move forward, let’s ensure that this change is celebrated and sustained.
The remarkable achievements of these women are not just milestones, they are a call to action for all of us to support and uplift women in sports.
Together, we can create a future where their talents are recognized and celebrated on equal footing. Because, at the end of the day, they are competing in a sport they enjoy and are giving no less than men.
