Australia’s chef de mission Anna Meares has issued a statement to mark the halfway mark of Paris 2024.

Meares, the former cycling champion, is understandably delighted as Australia, with 12 gold medals, sits second behind only China on the medal tally.

“I am very grateful to all our athletes for how they have conducted themselves amid the height of pressure, in the face of defeat, and in the everyday interactions among our team in village spaces to date,” Meares said.

“I have always said there are no guarantees at an Olympic Games, so we have celebrated all the medals won, just as we have celebrated the many other achievements including finals, personal bests and sport best results, we have also rallied around those who have felt disappointment and reminded them we are there for them and show our immense pride in their effort as an Australian Olympian.

“I am battling to find daily emotional composure as I am sure all of Australia is too.

“I am proud of every member of this team and even more proud to be in the thick of it with them. We have just ticked over half way in this Olympic campaign and everyone has given their best and I know the athletes and sports yet to compete will continue to represent with the same courage I’ve enjoyed witnessing so far.”