The 2024 Paris Olympic Games came to a close in spectacular fashion on Sunday at the Stade de France. The closing ceremony was an unforgettable spectacle, merging Hollywood glamour with Olympic tradition, officially concluding a thrilling international sporting event.
As Los Angeles gears up for the 2028 Summer Olympics, the transition was marked by a seamless and grandiose handover of the Olympic flag, showcasing an array of vibrant performances and defining moments.
Handover of the Olympic Flag
The highlight of the ceremony was undoubtedly the dramatic passing of the Olympic flag. Renowned actor Tom Cruise descended from the stadium roof to the crowd below, proudly brandishing the Olympic flag. In a poignant moment, gymnast Simone Biles handed the flag to Cruise, symbolically passing the torch to Los Angeles for the 2028 Games.
Cruise, embodying his iconic action-hero persona, took the flag on an adventurous journey. He boarded a military cargo plane with his motorcycle, and in an elaborate montage, he skydove into Los Angeles, turning the double O's of the Hollywood sign into the Olympic rings logo. The visual narrative concluded at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, a storied venue that previously hosted the Olympics in 1932 and 1984.
A Cultural Celebration
The closing ceremony was not just a handover of responsibilities but a celebration of the cultural essence of both Paris and Los Angeles. Music played a pivotal role in bridging these cultures, creating a rhythmic and vibrant atmosphere.
American skateboarder Jagger Eaton skated with the Olympic flag to a quintessential Southern California beach, adding to the dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. The Red Hot Chili Peppers energized the crowd with their hit song "Can't Stop," followed by Billie Eilish, who delivered a mesmerizing performance on an adjacent stage. The night reached another level when Snoop Dogg performed "Drop It Like It's Hot," later joined by Dr. Dre for "The Next Episode."
The ceremony also reflected Paris' rich artistic and cultural heritage. Alain Roche's piano performance, suspended in the air, and opera singer Benjamin Bernheim's vocal prowess added a touch of elegance. French musicians Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the band Phoenix further enriched the ceremony with their performances. French R&B singer Yseult's rendition of "Comme d'habitude" provided a fitting end to the Parisian celebration.
Symbolism and Legacy
Ending the Games with a nod to their legacy, the Olympic torch was carried by French swimmer Leon Marchand before it was ceremoniously extinguished, marking the official end of the 2024 Olympics. The ceremony also symbolized Paris' transition from the Olympics to the Paralympic Games. French rugby star Antoine Dupont handed a French flag to Paralympic runner Nantenin Keita, elegantly marking the shift to the Paralympic Games scheduled from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8.
Medal Tally
The United States emerged as a dominant force in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, amassing an impressive total of 126 medals. The competition for gold was fierce, with both the United States and China clinching 40 gold medals each.
A Memorable Farewell
The closing ceremony concluded with a breathtaking fireworks display over the Stade de France, symbolizing Paris' farewell to the Olympic Games. As the Olympic flame was extinguished, the stage was set for Los Angeles to take over as the host city for the upcoming 2028 Olympics, promising another chapter of athletic excellence and cultural exchange.
In this magnificent finale, the world witnessed not just the end of a sporting event, but a celebration of human spirit, culture, and the enduring legacy of the Olympic Games.