The 2024 Paris Olympic Games ended in grand fashion, with a star-studded closing ceremony at the Stade de France on Sunday. It marked the conclusion of a thrilling international sporting event and set the stage for Los Angeles as the next host of the summer games in 2028.
The Grand Transition
The passing of the Olympic flag to Los Angeles was a highlight of the evening, featuring a blend of dazzling performances and iconic moments. Hollywood met the Olympics in a spectacular display that included renowned actor Tom Cruise making an exhilarating descent from the stadium roof, proudly holding the Olympic flag. Cruise then received the flag from gymnastics legend Simone Biles, signaling the transition to the upcoming Los Angeles Games.
In a dramatic and adventurous sequence, Cruise was seen boarding a military cargo plane with his motorcycle. An elaborate montage followed, depicting him skydiving into Los Angeles and transforming the iconic Hollywood sign into the Olympic rings logo. This visual extravaganza culminated at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, a historic venue that hosted the Olympics in 1932 and 1984.
Musical Extravaganza
The ceremony was a masterful blend of music that bridged the cultural gaps between Paris and Los Angeles. American skateboarder Jagger Eaton added to the dynamic atmosphere by skating with the Olympic flag to a quintessential Southern California beach. The Red Hot Chili Peppers electrified the night with their hit song "Can't Stop," while Billie Eilish captivated the audience with her performance on an adjacent stage. Snoop Dogg, later joined by Dr. Dre, took the celebration to another level, performing hits like "Drop It Like It's Hot" and "The Next Episode." The evening was punctuated with color cannons firing off the Olympic colors against a picturesque California beach backdrop.
Paris’ Artistic Farewell
Back in Paris, the closing festivities highlighted the city's rich artistic and cultural heritage. Aerial piano performance by Alain Roche and the opera singing of Benjamin Bernheim added a touch of elegance to the ceremony. French musicians Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the band Phoenix further enlivened the event with their performances. The torch, representing the Olympic legacy, was carried by star French swimmer Léon Marchand before being ceremoniously extinguished, marking the official end of the 2024 Games.
To symbolize Paris' transition from hosting the Olympics to preparing for the Paralympic Games, French rugby star Antoine Dupont passed a French flag to Paralympic track and field runner Nantenin Keita. The upcoming Paralympic Games are scheduled from August 28 to September 8.
The Medal Tally
The United States emerged as a dominant force in the 2024 Games, amassing an impressive total of 126 medals. Both the United States and China clinched 40 gold medals each, showcasing the intense level of competition and athletic prowess displayed throughout the event.
The Closing Ceremony concluded with a mesmerizing fireworks display over the Stade de France, creating a fitting farewell to the Paris Games. As the Olympic flame was extinguished, Paris bid adieu and passed the torch to Los Angeles, eager to continue the Olympic legacy in 2028.