The Fijian extended his gratitude to the organisers of the event.

"As we ready ourselves for the Closing Ceremony of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, we can look back fondly on what has been a wonderful two weeks of thrilling sport and unforgettable moments of solidarity and respect," said Mitchell.

"None of this would have been possible without the dedication and resolve of Tokyo 2020, the IOC and of course our gracious Japanese hosts.

"On behalf of our athletes, and the NOC family, we will be forever grateful to the people of Japan for staging such a safe and successful Games."

Mitchell, an member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board, applauded how the Games focused on matters beyond sport, especially during the coronavirus pandemic.

"But of course, this Olympic Games, as all Olympic Games, is about so much more than finishing on the podium," he said.

"It is about celebrating humanity and bringing the world together through our shared values.

"For all the records broken, there have been countless moments of friendship and sportsmanship from our inspiring athletes.

"Without fans, it was athletes who spurred each other on and showed great comradery, even in competition.

"As ever, they have led the way and served as role models for us to follow.

"At a time of such difficulty and uncertainty in the world, the role our Olympians have played in bringing joy and hope to communities around the globe cannot be underestimated."

ANOC secretary general and IOC member, Gunilla Lindberg, also commented on her delight at the growth of the Olympics and the strides it has made for gender equality.

"We have gone from 121 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) [in 1972] to the proud 206-NOC family we are today," said Lindberg.

"The number of athletes competing has risen from around 7,000 to more than 10,000.

"But, most importantly, we have gone from about 15% female athletes in 1972 to what will be full gender equality at Paris 2024."