Axios

Team USA is coming home — and they're bringing the Olympic Games with them as the U.S. gears up to host what policymakers are calling the "mega decade" of sporting events.

Why it matters: Hosting major sporting events not only brings economic opportunities to U.S. host cities, but it also presents an opportunity to spotlight the nation's culture and values globally during a time of intense focus on America's global standing.

The closing of the Paris Games Sunday concluded with the handover of the Olympic flag to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, officially kicking off the countdown to the 2028 Summer Olympics.

Why it matters: Organizers of the L.A. Games are taking a cue from Paris on striving for sustainability, vowing the tournament will be a "no build" and "car-free" feat.

Black women earned 42% of Team USA's women competition medals — a much larger share than in past Games.

Why it matters: This is a big moment for Black and brown athletes, and little girls who look up to them.

From get-ready-with-me vlogs to reviews of dating app prospects in the Olympic Village, Paris 2024's athletes took fans inside the Games.

Why it matters: Younger athletes gave viewers a less polished, more personal behind-the-scenes of the global stage.