The 2024 Paris Olympic Games came to a thrilling close with a star-studded and elaborate Closing Ceremony at the Stade de France on Sunday. This event marked the end of an international sporting spectacle that has left an indelible mark on history.
A Spectacular Farewell
The ceremony was a dazzling display of Hollywood-meets-Olympics theatrics. Renowned actor Tom Cruise stole the show with a breathtaking descent from the roof, holding the Olympic flag aloft as he landed amidst the cheering crowd. The symbolic handoff was a moment to remember, with gymnast Simone Biles passing the flag to Cruise, marking the transition to the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
Los Angeles Gets Ready
Cruise didn’t stop there. In a fantastic montage, he boarded a military cargo plane with his motorcycle, took an exhilarating ride, and skydived into Los Angeles. The narrative reached a crescendo as he dramatically transformed the double O's of the iconic Hollywood sign into the lower part of the Olympic rings logo. This visual spectacle culminated at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, a venue that has hosted the Olympics twice before in 1932 and 1984.
A Fusion of Music and Sport
Music played a central role in the ceremony, linking the vibrant cultures of Paris and Los Angeles. American skateboarder Jagger Eaton added to the dynamic atmosphere, skating with the Olympic flag to a quintessential Southern California beach. The iconic Red Hot Chili Peppers fired up the crowd with their hit song "Can't Stop," followed by a riveting performance from Billie Eilish on an adjacent stage.
Not to be outdone, Snoop Dogg elevated the celebration with "Drop It Like It's Hot," later joined by Dr. Dre for a dynamic performance of "The Next Episode." The festivities reached their peak as colorful cannons fired off Olympic hues against the picturesque backdrop of a California beach.
Paris Bids Adieu
Back in Paris, the closing festivities paid homage to the host city with artistic and cultural tributes. Alain Roche captivated audiences with a piano performance while suspended in the air, and opera singer Benjamin Bernheim added an ethereal quality to the evening. French musicians Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the French band Phoenix further enriched the celebration with their performances.
The torch, symbolizing the Olympic legacy, was carried by celebrated French swimmer Leon Marchand. As he ceremoniously extinguished the flame, the 2024 Olympic Games officially came to an end. French R&B singer Yseult performed "Comme d'habitude," bringing a fitting conclusion to the Parisian celebration.
Transition to the Paralympic Games
The ceremony also symbolized Paris' transition from the Olympic to the Paralympic Games. French rugby star and flag bearer Antoine Dupont passed the French flag to Paralympic track and field runner Nantenin Keita, elegantly marking the shift to the Paralympic Games scheduled from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8.
The Final Medal Count
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 their athletic prowess on the global stage.
A Farewell with Fireworks
The Closing Ceremony concluded with a mesmerizing fireworks display over the Stade de France. As the sky lit up in vibrant colors, the Olympic flame was extinguished, and Paris bid a heartfelt farewell to the Games. The torch was passed to Los Angeles, signaling the start of a new Olympic journey in 2028.