Kristen Faulkner made history by winning the gold medal in the women's road cycling race at the Paris 2024 Olympics, becoming the first American to do so in 40 years since Connie Carpenter-Phinney's victory in 1984. Initially an alternate, Faulkner replaced Taylor Knibb and seized her chance with a bold attack near the end of the 158-kilometer race, finishing 58 seconds ahead of Marianne Vos and Lotte Kopecky. Faulkner's journey to gold is remarkable, considering she only began cycling seriously a few years ago after a career in investment banking. Her victory is celebrated as a monumental upset and a testament to her determination and strategic prowess.