The 2024 Paris Olympic Games concluded with a spectacular and star-studded Closing Ceremony at the Stade de France, officially drawing the curtain on what has been a memorable and thrilling international sporting event. Los Angeles is now eagerly preparing to take the reins for the upcoming summer event in 2028.
Grand Transitional Moments
The passing of the Olympic flag was a moment of grandeur and seamless transition, marked by an array of dazzling performances and iconic moments embodying the spirit of Hollywood-meets-Olympics theatrics. One of the standout spectacles of the evening was renowned actor Tom Cruise's exhilarating descent from the roof into the crowd, proudly holding aloft the Olympic flag. This event was capped by a symbolic handoff wherein gymnast Simone Biles passed the flag to Cruise, marking the transition to the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
The cinematic flair did not end there. In a bold and adventurous sequence, Cruise took the Olympic flag on a whirlwind ride, boarding a military cargo plane with his signature motorcycle. A brilliantly executed montage showcased Cruise skydiving into Los Angeles, dramatically transforming the double O's of the Hollywood sign into the bottom of the Olympic rings logo. The visual spectacle culminated at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, a venue that has proudly hosted the Games in 1932 and 1984.
Musical Brilliance and Cultural Bridging
A pivotal aspect of the ceremony was its musical component, which served to bridge the cultural energies of Paris and Los Angeles. American skateboarder Jagger Eaton added dynamic flair by skating with the Olympic flag to a quintessential Southern California beach backdrop. The Red Hot Chili Peppers ignited the vibe with their hit song "Can't Stop," energizing the crowd.
Billie Eilish delivered a riveting performance on an adjacent stage, while Snoop Dogg elevated the celebration with "Drop It Like It's Hot," later joined by Dr. Dre for a powerful rendition of "The Next Episode." The night came alive with color cannons firing off the Olympic colors against the picturesque California beach, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Homage to Paris and Artistic Highlights
Back in Paris, the closing festivities were marked by an artistic and cultural homage to the host city. Alain Roche's piano performance, suspended in the air, along with the soulful opera singing of Benjamin Bernheim, added a touch of elegance to the evening. French musicians Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the band Phoenix further underscored the celebration with their contributions.
The torch, a symbol of Olympic legacy, was carried by star French swimmer Leon Marchand before being ceremoniously extinguished, signaling the official end of the 2024 Games. French R&B singer Yseult also performed "Comme d'habitude," adding to the emotional depth of the evening.
Transition to the Paralympic Games
The ceremony also symbolized Paris' transition from hosting the Olympics to the upcoming Paralympic Games. French rugby star and flag bearer Antoine Dupont elegantly passed a French flag to Paralympic track and field runner Nantenin Keita. This act gracefully marked the shift to the Paralympic Games, scheduled from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8, showcasing the continuity and inclusivity of the Olympic spirit.
United States' Dominance
The United States emerged as a dominant force throughout the competition, amassing a total of 126 medals. Both the United States and China clinched an impressive 40 gold medals each, underscoring their prowess in the global sporting arena.
Finale
The Closing Ceremony concluded with a mesmerizing fireworks display over the Stade de France, illuminating the Parisian sky in a fitting tribute to the end of the Games. As the Olympic flame was extinguished, Paris bid farewell, passing the torch to Los Angeles, setting the stage for an exciting 2028 Summer Olympic Games.