The 2024 Paris Olympic Games came to an electrifying close at the Stade de France on Sunday night, marking the end of a breathtaking and memorable international sporting event. The Closing Ceremony did not disappoint, delivering a seamless blend of Hollywood flair and Olympic tradition, setting the stage for Los Angeles to take the baton for the 2028 Games.
A Star-Studded Farewell
The evening was adorned with dazzling performances, capturing both the essence of Paris and the anticipation for Los Angeles. Among the most memorable moments was renowned actor Tom Cruise’s dramatic descent from the roof, Olympic flag in hand. His exhilarating entrance signified a bridge between the two iconic cities. Gymnast Simone Biles added to the sense of occasion, ceremoniously passing the flag to Cruise, symbolizing the official handover to Los Angeles 2028.
Cruise later embarked on a cinematic journey, depicted in an elaborate montage that showcased him boarding a military cargo plane, skydiving into Los Angeles, and transforming the Hollywood sign’s double O’s into the Olympic rings. This narrative crescendoed at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, an emblematic venue that previously hosted the Games in 1932 and 1984.
Musical Extravaganza
Music played an integral role throughout the ceremony, bridging the cultural vibrancy of Paris and the dynamic energy of Los Angeles. The American spirit shone through with skateboarding legend Jagger Eaton, who skated with the Olympic flag to a Southern California beach, embodied the youthful exuberance of the next host city.
Musical performances added layers of excitement. The Red Hot Chili Peppers ignited the atmosphere with their hit "Can't Stop," while Billie Eilish delivered a powerful set from an adjacent stage. The night reached new heights with Snoop Dogg performing "Drop It Like It's Hot," later joined by Dr. Dre for a nostalgic rendition of "The Next Episode."
As color cannons fired off the Olympic colors against a picturesque California beach backdrop, the audience was reminded of the vibrant and diverse cultural tapestry that Los Angeles brings to the Olympic spirit.
A Tribute to Paris
Back in Paris, the celebration was equally exuberant but with a distinct cultural delicacy. The ceremony featured artistic performances that paid homage to the host city. Alain Roche performed a piano piece while suspended in the air, and opera singer Benjamin Bernheim added a classical touch. French musicians Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the band Phoenix provided a fitting musical farewell.
Star French swimmer Leon Marchand played a poignant role in the ceremony, carrying the torch before it was ceremoniously extinguished, marking the official end of the 2024 Games. The reverent performance of "Comme d'habitude" by French R&B singer Yseult encapsulated the emotional farewell.
Medal Tally and Final Moments
The United States emerged as a formidable force during the Games, amassing a total of 126 medals. The competition for gold was fierce, with both the United States and China securing an impressive 40 gold medals each.
As the eventful night wound down, the official handover took place in a poignant moment that transitioned from the Olympics to the upcoming Paralympic Games. French rugby star and flag bearer Antoine Dupont passed a French flag to Paralympic track and field runner Nantenin Keita, marking the ceremonial shift to the Paralympic Games scheduled from August 28 to September 8.
The conclusion came in a blaze of glory with a mesmerizing fireworks display, lighting up the Parisian sky over the Stade de France. As the Olympic flame was extinguished, Paris gracefully bid farewell, passing the torch to Los Angeles, ushering in a new chapter in Olympic history.