AEST 10:00, Tue Jan 24 2012
The Olympics returned to Greece in 2004 for the first time since the inaugural modern day Olympics in 1896.
Athens hosted athletes from 201 countries participating in 28 different sports. The USA (103) would dominate the medal tally with Russia (92), China (63) and Australia (49) sitting behind.
Australia's Ian Thorpe won two golds, however expectations were too high for the 100m as he could only muster a bronze. Australia's overall team performance was its best ever with 17 gold, 16 silver and 16 bronze.
Photos: Getty Images
The Olympic rings beam centre stage as drummers perform during the Opening Ceremony.
AFL