A top, classy and fluffy finish to a hair-raising event.
The Paris 2024 Olympics ended in a dramatic blend of beauty and tension, a dystopian spectacle that captivated the world. In an unforgettable moment, actor Tom Cruise descended from the roof of Stade de France to collect the Olympic flag, symbolizing the handover to Los Angeles, the next host city in 2028. His exit was equally cinematic, as he rode away on a motorcycle, leaving the crowd in awe.
The closing ceremony was a star-studded affair, featuring electrifying performances by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre on Venice Beach. The energy was palpable, a fitting end to a remarkable Games.
The United States conquered China, then the world.
On the medal table, they firmly held on to the top, narrowly holding off China, with Japan securing a strong third place. The host nation, France, proudly finished in the top five, a testament to their home-field advantage and spirited performances.
Thomas Bach, the outgoing IOC president, lauded the Paris 2024 Olympics.
He said: “sensational, or dare I say, ‘Seine-sational’,” cleverly nodding to the iconic river that flows through the heart of the city. He declared the Games as a landmark event, the first to fully embrace the Olympic agenda’s reforms: younger, more urban, more inclusive, more sustainable, and the first to achieve full gender parity.
Bach praised the athletes for their “simply amazing” performances, marking the Games as a celebration of human potential and perseverance. He was particular with the Germans who were in the top ten.
As the Olympic flame was extinguished, the world now turns its gaze to the Paralympics, set to take place in Paris from August 28 to September 8, 2024.
The spirit of competition and unity will continue to burn bright in the City of Light.
