Female stars move into main spotlight

But gender gap still plays a role, with more events for male athletes

From the dizzying heights of US gymnast Simone Biles to Indian wrestler Sakshi Malik and Brazilian golden girl Rafaela Silva in judo - Rio proved a groundbreaking Games for women.

Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps had already arrived in the host city as global superstars of athletics and swimming, but newcomer Biles' amazing acrobatic skills also won star billing with her record-equaling four golds and a bronze at her first Games.