The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris were a resounding success for current, former, and future UCLA students, as they collectively won a total of 14 medals, including five gold, three silver, and six bronze. With 49 Bruins representing their respective countries at the Games, 12 athletes emerged as medalists, while an additional five Bruins served as coaches or staff on medal-winning teams. This impressive haul of medals further solidified UCLA’s standing as a powerhouse in Olympic competition, bringing the university’s all-time medal count to an impressive 284 medals – 141 gold, 74 silver, and 69 bronze.
One standout performer at the Games was UCLA junior Jordan Chiles, who played a pivotal role in helping the USA women’s gymnastics team secure its fourth-ever Olympic team gold medal. Chiles also clinched an individual bronze medal on the floor exercise, adding to her silver team medal from the 2020 Olympic Games. Her outstanding performances at the Olympics have not only brought glory to her country but have also set the stage for her return to compete for the UCLA Gymnastics team in the upcoming season.
Former UCLA Track & Field athlete Rai Benjamin showcased his exceptional talent by winning two gold medals in the 400m hurdles and anchoring the USA’s gold medal-winning 4x400m relay team. Benjamin’s remarkable achievements now place him sixth all-time at UCLA with four Olympic medals, tying him with legends Ato Boldon and Steve Lewis for the most medals in UCLA Men’s Track & Field history. His three gold medals also rank him among the top medalists in UCLA history, a testament to his extraordinary skill and dedication to his sport.
In basketball, UCLA Men’s Basketball alum Jrue Holiday made history by becoming the program’s first-ever two-time Olympic gold medalist. Holiday played a crucial role in leading Team USA to an undefeated record, contributing significantly to the team’s victory in the gold medal game against France. His remarkable feat of winning both an NBA Championship and an Olympic gold medal in the same year further solidifies his status as a basketball icon.
The success of UCLA students extended beyond the realm of gymnastics and track & field, with athletes like Mallory Swanson, Sienna Green, Bronte Halligan, Daniella Ramirez, Ryder Dodd, Chase Dodd, and Max Irving all making significant contributions to their respective teams and earning medals in women’s soccer, water polo, artistic swimming, and men’s water polo. Their achievements not only brought pride to their university but also showcased the depth of talent and skill present among UCLA athletes across various disciplines.
Furthermore, the coaching prowess of UCLA alumni and staff members was on full display at the 2024 Olympics, with individuals like John Speraw, Karch Kiraly, Alfee Reft, Sue Enquist, and Erik Sullivan playing pivotal roles in guiding their teams to success. Their collective efforts helped secure medals for Team USA in volleyball and women’s volleyball, further highlighting the strong coaching legacy of UCLA in the world of sports.
As the 2028 Olympic Games approach, UCLA is poised to play a significant role in the event, with the Olympic Village set to be housed on the UCLA campus. With a rich history of Olympic success and a tradition of producing top-tier athletes and coaches, UCLA is primed to continue its legacy of excellence on the world stage. The achievements of current, former, and future UCLA students at the 2024 Olympics serve as a testament to the university’s commitment to athletic excellence and its ongoing impact on the world of sports.