The Paris Olympics 2024 concluded with a resounding success at the Stade de France, where the closing ceremony signified the end of an unparalleled sports spectacle.
This event transcended mere celebration of athletic prowess, serving as a symbolic transfer of the Olympic torch to Los Angeles, the host city for the 2028 Games.
The ceremony commenced with an enthralling performance by French singer-songwriter Zaho de Sagazan, who established the mood with a powerful rendition of Edith Piaf’s timeless classic, “Sous le Ciel de Paris.”
The stadium was then enveloped in darkness, creating an ethereal ambiance reminiscent of a mysterious and forsaken planet, setting the stage for the introduction of The Golden Voyager, a character inspired by French historical figures, notably the Spirit of the Bastille.
In accordance with tradition, the Greek flag was hoisted to acknowledge the origins of the Olympic Games. Following this, the French indie rock band Phoenix, renowned for their dynamic performances, took the stage, followed by French artist Kavinsky, who captivated the audience with his rendition of “Nightcall.”
A standout moment of the evening was pianist Alain Roche’s extraordinary performance of “The Hymn to Apollo,” executed while suspended in mid-air with a piano overhead. This breathtaking display of musical talent was complemented by opera singer Benjamin Bernheim, who performed from the center of the stadium.
The transition to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles commenced with a soulful performance of the American National Anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” delivered by Grammy Award-winning singer H.E.R. Her melodious voice set the tone for the official handover, during which the Olympic flag was passed from Paris to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and gymnastics superstar Simone Biles.
The celebration reached new heights with Hollywood icon Tom Cruise’s dramatic entrance, rappelling from the roof of Stade de France, showcasing his characteristic action-hero persona. The festivities continued with Grammy Award-winning musician Billie Eilish, who performed her chart-topping song “Birds of a Feather.”
As the focus shifted to Los Angeles, the Olympic flag was paraded through the city’s streets by athletes Michael Johnson, Jagger Eaton, and Kate Courtney. The handover ceremony concluded with a dynamic performance by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who energized the audience with their song “Can’t Stop,” followed by American rapper Snoop Dogg, who closed out the musical segment with his iconic tracks, “Drop It Like It’s Hot” and “The Next Episode,” leaving the audience in a state of awe.
The United States emerged as the top medal winner at the Paris Olympics 2024, securing an impressive total of 126 medals, including 40 gold, 44 silver, and 42 bronze. China took second place with a total of 91 medals, comprising 40 gold, 27 silver, and 24 bronze. Japan rounded out the podium with 45 medals, including 20 gold, 12 silver, and 13 bronze.
