Antoine Dupont and The Rise of Rugby at Paris Olympics

Antoine Dupont secured his status as a top rugby player by winning gold at the Paris Olympics. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe concluded her sevens career with another New Zealand title. Ilona Maher drew broader attention, helping the U.S. women's team win bronze. The games saw massive local support, with 553,000 spectators attending at Stade de France.

Antoine Dupont enhanced his reputation as the world's premier rugby player by winning a gold medal for the host nation at the Paris Olympics. The skilled Frenchman led his team to a notable victory over two-time champions Fiji.

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe completed her illustrious sevens career with yet another title for New Zealand, further cementing her legacy in the sport. Ilona Maher's efforts ensured widespread viewership beyond rugby's traditional audience, aiding the U.S. women's team in securing a bronze medal.

With 553,000 spectators filling Stade de France to capacity over six days, the event was a grand spectacle. The men's tournament began even before the official start of the Games, using Paris's iconic venues as backdrops. This early start, coupled with fervent local support, highlighted the Olympics' growing influence on rugby, a trend expected to continue through the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

(With inputs from agencies.)