The 2024 Paris Olympic Games drew to a close with a dazzling and star-studded Closing Ceremony at the Stade de France. This event marked the end of an unforgettable international sporting saga. With Los Angeles gearing up to host the next summer games in 2028, the transition was nothing short of spectacular.
A Monumental Handoff
The passing of the Olympic flag was a highlight of the ceremony. Renowned actor Tom Cruise executed a jaw-dropping descent from the stadium roof, holding the Olympic flag aloft. The flag exchange itself was symbolically powerful, as gymnast Simone Biles handed it to Cruise, who then embarked on a thrilling journey to Los Angeles.
Hollywood Meets the Olympics
Cruise’s journey to Los Angeles was theatrically portrayed. He boarded a military cargo plane with his motorcycle and was shown skydiving into L.A. In a dramatic twist, the double O's of the iconic Hollywood sign transformed into the bottom of the Olympic rings logo, enhancing the visual grandeur of the moment.
A Melodious Night
Music played an essential role in the Closing Ceremony, reflecting the vibrant cultural energies of both Paris and Los Angeles. American skateboarder Jagger Eaton showcased his skills by skating with the Olympic flag to a quintessential Southern California beach. The Red Hot Chili Peppers charged the atmosphere with a performance of their hit song "Can't Stop," followed by Billie Eilish who delivered a captivating set on a nearby stage.
Snoop Dogg elevated the celebration further with his iconic track "Drop It Like It's Hot" and was later joined by Dr. Dre for a rendition of "The Next Episode." The night sky erupted with the Olympic colors fired from color cannons, set against the scenic backdrop of a California beach.
Parisian Elegance
Meanwhile, back in Paris, the Closing Ceremony was infused with artistic and cultural tributes to the host city. Alain Roche's aerial piano performance, coupled with the operatic voice of Benjamin Bernheim, brought a unique artistic flair to the evening. French musicians Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the band Phoenix added to the rich tapestry of performances.
In a poignant moment, French swimmer Leon Marchand carried the symbolic torch before it was ceremoniously extinguished, marking the official end of the 2024 Olympic Games. French R&B singer Yseult closed the Parisian segment with a heartfelt rendition of "Comme d'habitude."
Transitioning to the Paralympics
The evening not only marked the end of the Olympics but also smoothly transitioned Paris from the Olympic Games to the Paralympic Games. French rugby star Antoine Dupont passed a French flag to Paralympic track and field runner Nantenin Keita, symbolizing the shift to the upcoming Paralympic Games scheduled from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8.
The United States finished strong in the medal tally, amassing a total of 126 medals. Both the United States and China clinched 40 gold medals each, highlighting their dominance in the games.
A Grand Finale
The ceremony concluded with a mesmerizing fireworks display over the Stade de France, as the Olympic flame was extinguished, officially signaling Paris' farewell to the Games. The torch has now been passed to Los Angeles, where new Olympic memories await to be made.