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New stars emerged too, with 19-year-old gymnast Simone Biles twisting and turning her way into the hearts of fans around the world with her four gold medal-winning performances, and Brazilian judoka Rafaela da Silva, who grew up in Rio’s infamous City of God favela, proving an inspiration as she won the host nation’s first gold of the Games.There was no shortage of emotion, either, thanks to the participation of the first-ever Refugee Olympic Team, featuring 10 athletes who, as IOC president Thomas Bach put it, would send “a signal to the international community that refugees are our fellow human beings and are an enrichment to society”. Wherever they went, the refugee team received a rapturous reception, although the biggest cheers were saved for the host nation, who were able to revel in iconic gold medals in three of the country’s most popular sports – beach volleyball, volleyball and football – sparking delirious celebrations throughout Rio and the rest of Brazil.In total, more than 11,000 athletes from a record 206 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) competed in Rio, with Kosovo and South Sudan sending athletes to the Games for the first time.“I already miss the beauty of Rio and the friendliness of its people. Thank you Rio for hosting the Games and for making us feel so welcomed.”Michael Phelps, USA, 23-time Olympic gold medallist“There is something magical behind these Games. They will stay with me for the rest of my life.” Bruno Schmidt, Brazil, beach volleyball gold medallist2NOCs, Kosovo and South Sudan competed at their first Olympic Games87 NOCs won medals 59 NOCs celebrated gold28 Sports, 306 Events37Venues014 A NEW WORLD