The Paris 2024 Olympics concluded in grand fashion on Sunday with a mesmerizing closing ceremony at the Stade de France. A celebration of sportsmanship and global unity, the event featured a dazzling array of performances by athletes, musicians, and artists.
The ceremony kicked off with French swimmer Leon Marchand carrying the Olympic flame into the stadium, followed by the Parade of Nations led by the IOC Refugee and Olympic Team and France. India’s flag bearers, Manu Bhaker and PR Sreejesh, received a warm welcome as they entered the stadium.
The closing ceremony also included the final medal ceremony of the Games for the women’s marathon, symbolizing the first-ever Olympics with full gender parity. The event continued with an enchanting light show and a performance by The Golden Voyager, a character drawing inspiration from French history.
The Olympic rings were dramatically unveiled, accompanied by a rendition of the ‘Hymn to Apollo’. The atmosphere then shifted to high-energy with electrifying performances by French indie-rock band Phoenix and electronic artist Kavinsky.
Paris 2024 Organising Committee president Tony Estanguet and IOC president Thomas Bach delivered inspiring speeches, celebrating the athletes and the spirit of the Games. The Olympic flag was then handed over to Los Angeles, marking the transition to the 2028 Olympics.
The transition to LA2028 was marked by a series of captivating performances and appearances. Singer H.E.R. performed the American national anthem, actor Tom Cruise made a dramatic entrance, and the Olympic flag was symbolically transported from Paris to Los Angeles, with cameos from Olympians along the way.
One thing about America is that they know how to put on a show. I’m excited for the LA 2028 Olympics. Also no matter what you might think of Tom Cruise, his star power and talent can’t be denied #ClosingCeremony pic.twitter.com/zx9t6DQNOE
— Emi Eleode (@EmiEleode) August 11, 2024
Musical performances by Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre further amplified the celebratory atmosphere. The ceremony culminated with Leon Marchand extinguishing the Olympic flame and President Bach declaring the Games officially closed.
The Paris 2024 Olympics left a lasting legacy, with the USA topping the medal tally with 126 medals, followed by China and Japan. India finished at a respectable 71st position with six medals. The Games marked a new era for the Olympics, characterized by inclusivity, sustainability, and gender parity. The world now eagerly awaits the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where the Olympic spirit will continue to shine.
