The 2024 Paris Olympic Games wrapped up in grand style with a Closing Ceremony held at the iconic Stade de France. As the event came to an end on Sunday, it became a window into the promising future as Los Angeles eagerly prepares to host the 2028 summer event.
Passing the Torch to Los Angeles
The transfer of the Olympic flag was a highlight of the ceremony, celebrated with a range of dazzling performances and iconic moments. Hollywood and the Olympics converged in a spectacular display, exemplified by renowned actor Tom Cruise's dramatic descent from the stadium roof, clutching the Olympic flag. This symbolic moment was further embellished when gymnast Simone Biles handed the flag to Cruise, marking the transition to the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
Cruise's adventurous spirit was on full display as he took the Olympic flag on a thrilling journey. Riding with the flag aboard a military cargo plane, he then skydived into Los Angeles, transforming the double O's of the Hollywood sign to merge with the Olympic rings logo. This visual narrative led viewers to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the historic venue that hosted the Games in 1932 and 1984.
Musical Extravaganza
The Closing Ceremony was a vibrant fusion of music and culture, embodying the spirit of both Paris and Los Angeles. American skateboarder Jagger Eaton added a dynamic touch, skating with the Olympic flag to a quintessential Southern California beach. This was followed by legendary performances that electrified the crowd. The Red Hot Chili Peppers set the stage ablaze with their hit song "Can't Stop," while Billie Eilish delivered a riveting performance on an adjacent stage.
The evening reached new heights when Snoop Dogg performed "Drop It Like It's Hot," later joined by Dr. Dre for a duet of "The Next Episode." The ceremony's climax featured color cannons shooting out the Olympic colors against a picturesque California beach backdrop, a fitting conclusion to the musical spectacle.
A Nod to Paris
Back in Paris, the festivities were equally grand, paying homage to the host city's rich artistic and cultural heritage. Alain Roche's piano performance, executed while suspended in the air, along with opera singer Benjamin Bernheim's vocal prowess, brought elegance and tradition to the proceedings. French musicians Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the band Phoenix further enriched the atmosphere with their performances.
As a poignant final act, the torch—a timeless symbol of Olympic legacy—was carried by star French swimmer Leon Marchand before it was ceremoniously extinguished. This act signified the official end of the 2024 Olympic Games. French R&B singer Yseult’s performance of "Comme d'habitude" added an emotional touch to the closing moments.
The ceremony also heralded Paris' forthcoming role as the host of the Paralympic Games. French rugby star Antoine Dupont, who served as the flag bearer, passed the French flag to Paralympic track and field runner Nantenin Keita. This gesture elegantly signaled the shift to the upcoming Paralympic Games, scheduled from August 28 to September 8.
Highlights and Achievements
On the competitive front, the United States demonstrated remarkable prowess, accumulating a total of 126 medals. Both the United States and China shared the spotlight by clinching an impressive 40 gold medals each.
The evening concluded with a mesmerizing fireworks display over the Stade de France, providing a fitting conclusion to a monumental Games. As the Olympic flame was extinguished, Paris bid farewell to the Games, passing the torch to Los Angeles, paving the way for another chapter in the Olympic journey.