Ethical Challenges and Record-Breaking Viewership: The Legacy of the Paris 2024 Olympics

The Paris 2024 Olympics marked a significant milestone in the history of the Games, celebrated not only for its athletic competition but also for its monumental global reach and the highlighted issues surrounding sportsmanship and ethical conduct.

A prime focus of the Games was the suspension of Charlotte Dujardin, a British equestrian and Olympic dressage champion. Dujardin faced a major career setback when she withdrew from the Games following a controversy where a video surfaced showing her whipping a horse's legs. This incident sparked widespread discussion about the treatment of animals in sports, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of animal welfare policies in equestrian sports.

In the U.S., the spirit of the Games was captured through the display of Paris 2024 medals at the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum (USOPM). Visitors to the museum had the unique opportunity to view the gold, silver, and bronze medals, enriching their understanding of the Olympics' heritage and the achievement they represent.

The Paris Olympics also achieved unprecedented levels of engagement, heralding the dawn of what might be considered a new era for the Games. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) President, Thomas Bach, celebrated the event as "the most followed Olympic Games ever," with global audiences nearing 5 billion. This surge in viewership was attributed not only to the thrilling performances and compelling storytelling but also to extensive use of digital platforms that made the Games accessible worldwide.

Furthermore, athletes who participated in the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics were honored in high-profile ways beyond the athletic fields. A commendable moment unfolded as these athletes were invited to Parliament Hill, where their achievements were celebrated, highlighting the broader cultural and social recognition of their efforts and the values of the Olympic movement.

The Paris 2024 Games, thus, not only advanced the Olympic agenda by enhancing global viewership and engagement but also spotlighted critical issues such as athlete conduct and the welfare of animals in sports. These games set a precedent for how future Olympics could balance the celebration of sporting excellence with the pressing need to uphold ethical standards and inclusivity.