August 7th 2024.
The Olympics is more than just a competition, it's a celebration of hard work, dedication, and sporting excellence. And as the 2024 Paris Olympics near their end, countries around the world are giving it their all to secure those final gold medals and make their mark on the Games.
As expected, two sporting powerhouses, the USA and China, are locked in a tight battle for the top spot on the medal table. But they're not the only ones making a strong showing in Paris. Countries like Australia, France, and Great Britain are also enjoying success, while Ireland is proudly celebrating their most successful Olympics yet in terms of medal count.
However, there are a handful of countries that are not participating in this year's Olympics. But for the 206 countries that are taking part, the excitement and energy in Paris is palpable. And for the first time ever, the Paralympics will also see 184 countries competing.
Interestingly, there are three non-UN-member countries that are participating in the Olympics - Taiwan, Palestine, and Kosovo. Despite not being recognized as sovereign states by the United Nations, they all have National Olympic Committees and are eligible to compete in the Games.
Meanwhile, Team GB is once again proving their prowess in the sporting world with a strong performance at the Paris Olympics. And they're not alone. Taiwan, a country claimed by China but governed independently, is competing under the name Chinese Taipei, a compromise made between the two countries. And South Sudan, the newest Olympic nation, is making their third appearance since gaining independence in 2011.
But unfortunately, not all countries can take part in the Olympics. Due to the ongoing war with Ukraine, Russia and Belarus are currently banned from competing. However, some athletes from these countries are participating as 'Individual Neutral Athletes'. This means they must not have publicly supported the war and are competing under a neutral flag and anthem.
Despite not being able to officially represent their country, these neutral athletes are still giving it their all and adding to the excitement of the Paris Olympics. And while their medals won't count towards their country's total, they are still making their mark on the Games.
One country that is notably absent from the Olympics is Vatican City. As the only independent country without an International Olympic Committee, they have never applied to join. However, they have expressed their desire to do so in the future, perhaps one day adding to the diverse and international spirit of the Olympics.
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