China Hits Best Medal Tally Since Beijing at Paris 2024, USA Still Leads Overall

China showcased an outstanding performance at the Summer Olympics, matching their best gold medal haul since the 2008 Beijing Games with the United States, but fell short in overall standings due to fewer silver medals.

The tally of 40 gold medals marked a record for China at an overseas Olympics, achieved amidst intense pressure and scrutiny due to a doping controversy involving Chinese swimmers.

The nation continued its dominance in traditional strongholds such as diving and table tennis, sweeping all titles, and secured additional golds in badminton, weightlifting, and shooting. China also celebrated its first Olympic golds in artistic swimming, rhythmic gymnastics, women’s boxing, and women’s singles tennis.

Zheng Qinwen, a rising star in women’s tennis, clinched the singles gold at Roland Garros, overcoming top opponents including the world number one, Iga Swiatek.

Before the Games, reports emerged from the New York Times and German broadcaster ARD alleging that 23 Chinese swimmers tested positive for a banned substance in 2021 but were permitted to compete in the Tokyo Olympics. China’s Foreign Ministry later criticized the United States, suggesting the allegations were attempts to discredit Chinese athletes in Paris.

Amidst the controversy, 20-year-old Pan Zhanle became a standout performer, setting a new world record in the 100 meters freestyle and helping China break the U.S. hold on the men’s 4×100 medley relay. Despite facing isolation from other competitors, Pan’s achievements shone brightly.

Zhang Yufei, implicated in the ARD report, secured six medals, bringing her total Olympic haul to 10, making her China’s most decorated Olympic swimmer. She stated that despite the clearing of their names by World Aquatics, some skepticism remained, which they chose not to contest further, relying instead on their proven innocence.

Beyond the pool, China also excelled in newer Olympic sports, winning gold in women’s BMX freestyle, two silvers in sport climbing, and a bronze in women’s breaking, contributing to an impressive overall count of 91 medals.