Stanford University made history at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games by securing a school-record 39 medals, solidifying its reputation as the nation’s top collegiate program on the global stage. With a total of 59 Olympians with Cardinal ties, Stanford surpassed its previous best of 27 medals from the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, showcasing its dominance in the world of sports.
The Cardinal’s impressive medal haul included 12 gold, 14 silver, and 13 bronze medals, making it the most successful school at the 2024 Paris Games. Stanford athletes contributed to 27 event medals, further highlighting their exceptional performance on the Olympic stage. If Stanford was a country, it would have tied with Canada for 11th place in the overall medal standings.
Not only did Stanford excel in individual events, but the university also demonstrated its prowess in team sports. Athletes from Stanford played key roles in securing medals in women’s basketball, women’s soccer, men’s volleyball, women’s volleyball, men’s water polo, and women’s water polo. The Cardinal’s success in team events underscored the depth and talent of its student-athletes across various disciplines.
Among the standout performers was Katie Ledecky, who added to her impressive Olympic legacy by winning four medals (2 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze) in women’s swimming. Ledecky’s remarkable achievements made her the most decorated American female Olympian in any sport, with a total of 14 medals. Torri Huske and Regan Smith also had outstanding performances, each winning five medals to contribute to Stanford’s overall success at the Games.
In addition to the seasoned veterans, several Stanford athletes secured their first career medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Grant Fisher, a standout in track and field, made history by becoming the first male distance runner in U.S. history to medal in both the 5,000 meters and 10,000 meters events. The emergence of new talent further solidified Stanford’s position as a breeding ground for future Olympic champions.
Stanford’s Olympic representation extended beyond the athletes on the field, with five alternates, one national team head coach, and three national team assistant coaches also part of the contingent. Despite some withdrawals due to injuries, Stanford maintained a strong presence at the Games, showcasing the university’s commitment to excellence in athletics.
With a rich history of success in collegiate sports, Stanford University has established itself as a powerhouse in the world of athletics. The Cardinal’s impressive performance at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games only added to its legacy of excellence, further cementing its reputation as a top-tier program for aspiring athletes. As the university continues to produce champions and medalists, Stanford’s influence on the global sports landscape remains unparalleled.