The 2024 Paris Olympic Games ended on a high note with a spectacular Closing Ceremony at the Stade de France. This grand finale effectively set the stage for Los Angeles, the next host city, to welcome the world for the 2028 summer event.
The transfer of the Olympic flag, a poignant moment of grandeur, was enhanced by magical performances and iconic scenes, embodying a seamless transition of responsibilities to Los Angeles.
Hollywood Meets Olympics
The Closing Ceremony was a dazzling fusion of Hollywood theatrics and Olympic tradition. Renowned actor Tom Cruise made an unforgettable entrance by descending from the stadium roof with the Olympic flag in hand. This dramatic gesture was followed by an emotionally charged handoff where Simone Biles passed the flag to Cruise, a symbolic gesture ceremoniously connecting Paris to Los Angeles 2028.
In a spectacular sequence, Cruise then took the Olympic flag on an exhilarating journey, boarding a military cargo plane with his motorcycle. The captivating montage showed Cruise skydiving into Los Angeles, where he artistically transformed the double O's of the Hollywood sign into the Olympic rings. The journey culminated at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, an iconic venue that previously hosted the Games in 1932 and 1984.
A Fusion of Music and Culture
Music played a pivotal role in the night's celebration, intricately weaving together the cultural vibes of Paris and Los Angeles. American skateboarder Jagger Eaton added a dynamic touch by skateboarding with the Olympic flag to a quintessential Southern California beach. The Red Hot Chili Peppers electrified the atmosphere with their hit song "Can't Stop," followed by a riveting performance by Billie Eilish on a nearby stage.
Raising the energy higher, Snoop Dogg performed "Drop It Like It's Hot," and was later joined by Dr. Dre for a powerful rendition of "The Next Episode." The night came alive with vivid color cannons shooting Olympic colors against the scenic backdrop of a California beach.
Paris Bids Farewell
Back in Paris, the final moments of the Closing Ceremony paid homage to the host city through an artistic and cultural lens. Alain Roche's piano performance, suspended in mid-air, alongside Benjamin Bernheim's opera singing, presented a rich auditory experience. French musical talents like Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the band Phoenix added to the celebratory spirit.
Highlighting the importance of legacy, French swimmer Leon Marchand carried the torch before it was ceremoniously extinguished, marking the official end of the 2024 Olympic Games. French R&B singer Yseult added a final touch with her performance of "Comme d'habitude."
Transition to Paralympic Games
The ceremony also symbolized the transition from the Olympics to the Paralympic Games. French rugby star Antoine Dupont handed over a French flag to Paralympic track and field runner Nantenin Keita. This refined act symbolized the shift to the Paralympic Games, scheduled from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8.
A Triumph for the United States
In the sporting arena, the United States emerged as a dominant force with a remarkable tally of 126 medals, including 40 golds, matching China's gold medal count.
The night concluded with a breathtaking fireworks display over the Stade de France. As the Olympic flame was extinguished, Paris bid a poignant farewell to the Games, gracefully passing the torch to Los Angeles.