AEST 10:00, Tue Jan 24 2012
The Games of the XXVII Olympiad produced 17 days of unforgettable sporting memories.
Australia won a record haul of 58 medals – 16 gold, 25 silver and 17 bronze.
Ian Thorpe scooped the pool with five medals of his own, while Cathy Freeman lit up the track with a stunning performance.
In his final Games as IOC chief, Juan Antonio Samaranch closed the Sydney Olympics by saying: "I am proud and happy to proclaim that you have presented to the world the best Olympic Games ever".
(All images Getty)
Cathy Freeman lit the cauldron at the Sydney Olympic Stadium.
AFL