Not to diminish a great medal count, but how much of this dominance is simply the result of the U.S. competing in a lot of events where few other countries even field serious competitors? I mean, how does anyone keep a straight face on the medal stand after winning a medal in beach volleyball?
Not only that but do they count that as one medal? or do they count each and every medal to each teammate?
Easily. Beach volleyball, at the level at which US athletes (and their closest competitors) played, requires great skill and athleticism.
Since the US failed to medal in men’s beach volleyball this year, and in 1996 and 2000, no US woman’s team competed for the gold medal in beach volleyball, I think the answer to your question is self evident.