Paris Olympics 2024 Ends with Star-Studded Closing Ceremony Featuring H.E.R, Snoop Dogg, and Billie Eilish

The 2024 Paris Olympics concluded in a dazzling display of athleticism and artistic flair during a star-studded closing ceremony on Sunday. The ceremony brought together athletes, musicians, and cultural icons to celebrate the pinnacle of sportsmanship and officially hand over the Olympic torch to Los Angeles for the 2028 Games.

Paris Olympics 2024: A Night of Triumph and Transition

The closing ceremony unfolded like a grand narrative, starting with a classic musical performance and the arrival of the Olympic flame carried by French swimmer Leon Marchand. The stadium erupted in cheers as the Parade of Nations commenced, with flag-bearers leading their respective delegations in a vibrant display of international unity.

India's presence was marked by two national heroes: shooter Manu Bhaker, a double bronze medalist, and legendary hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who played a pivotal role in securing India's second consecutive Olympic bronze.

The ceremony paid homage to the history of the Olympics by highlighting the first-ever games held in Athens in 1896. The final medal ceremony for the women's marathon was a symbolic gesture, marking the first Olympics with complete gender parity.

Following the tradition, the Greek flag was raised, reminding everyone of the event's roots. A captivating performance by "The Golden Voyager," a character inspired by French historical figures, further emphasized this connection. The iconic Olympic rings were symbolically unearthed and hoisted high, representing the five continents united by the spirit of the Games.

A Symphony of Music and Spirit

The electrifying atmosphere continued with a musical extravaganza. French indie-rock band Phoenix set the stadium alight with their energetic performance, followed by French electronic artist Kavinsky's rendition of "Nightcall."

Paris 2024 Organizing Committee President Tony Estanguet addressed the crowd, joined by a group of athletes representing all continents and the Refugee Olympic Team. He expressed gratitude to the athletes for their dedication and invited them to reunite in Los Angeles for the 2028 Games.

IOC President Thomas Bach hailed the Paris Games as "a start of a new era," commending the athletes' fierce competition and the spirit of sportsmanship that resonated globally. He highlighted the successful implementation of the Olympic Agenda reforms, promoting a younger, more inclusive, and sustainable Olympic experience.

The Handover Ceremony: A Bridge Between Paris and LA

The Olympic flag handover ceremony marked the symbolic transition from Paris to Los Angeles. The flag was passed from Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo to IOC President Thomas Bach and then to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. American gymnastics legend Simone Biles joined the stage to receive the flag with a wave, signifying the anticipation for the next chapter of the Olympic Games.

The ceremony then seamlessly transitioned to a celebration of LA 2028. Grammy Award-winning R&B singer H.E.R delivered a soulful rendition of the American National Anthem, setting the tone for the Games to come.

Hollywood Takes Center Stage

A surprise entry by Hollywood action star Tom Cruise sent the crowd into a frenzy. Rappelling down from the stadium roof, Cruise embodied the spirit of adventure and transition. He received the flag from Bass and Biles and proceeded to ride it across the streets of Paris and the iconic Hollywood hills.

A Multimedia Journey to LA 2028

Cruise's journey with the flag was visually enhanced by cameos from renowned athletes like Kate Courtney (mountain bike), Michael Johnson (track and field), and Jagger Eaton (skateboarding). The iconic Hollywood sign was showcased prominently as the Red Hot Chili Peppers delivered a powerful performance of their song "Can't Stop" at Venice Beach in California.

A Night of Musical Icons

The closing ceremony concluded with a spectacular musical showcase. Billie Eilish, the 22-year-old pop sensation, mesmerized the audience with her hit song "Birds of a Feather," accompanied by her brother Finneas. The legendary hip-hop duo of Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre closed the show with a selection of their most iconic hits, leaving the crowd wanting more.

The Flame Extinguished, a New Chapter Begins

The ceremony culminated with Leon Marchand extinguishing the Olympic flame, marking the official closure of the Paris Games. IOC President Bach declared, under tradition, "the youth of the world to assemble four years from now in Los Angeles, United States of America, to celebrate with all of us the Games of the XXXIV Olympiad."

The night ended with a dazzling fireworks display and a rendition of Frank Sinatra's classic "My Way" by French artist Yseult.

The Final Medal Tally of Paris 2024 Olympics

The USA topped the medal tally with a total of 126 medals (40 gold, 44 silver, and 42 bronze), followed by China with 91 medals (40 gold, 27 silver, and 24 bronze). Japan secured the third spot with 45 medals (20 gold, 12 silver, and 13 bronze).

India finished in 71st position with a total of six medals, including one silver and five bronze.

The Paris 2024 Olympics concluded with a spectacular display of athleticism, culture, and unity. The closing ceremony, a dazzling blend of music, art, and sports, showcased the spirit of the Games and the world. As the Olympic flame was extinguished, the spotlight shifted to Los Angeles, the host city of the 2028 Games, promising another unforgettable sporting spectacle. With athletes from across the globe competing at the highest level, the Paris Olympics left an enduring legacy of inspiration and camaraderie.

Conclusion

The Paris Olympics 2024 concluded with an unforgettable closing ceremony that perfectly encapsulated the spirit and grandeur of the Games. From the symbolic lighting of the Olympic flame by French swimmer Leon Marchand to the dazzling performances by H.E.R, Billie Eilish, and Snoop Dogg, the night was a celebration of athletic excellence and artistic brilliance.

The event not only highlighted the achievements of athletes from around the world but also marked a new chapter with the handover of the Olympic flag to Los Angeles, setting the stage for the 2028 Games.

The closing ceremony was a visual and emotional feast, reflecting the Olympic ideals of unity, peace, and global camaraderie. As the flames were extinguished and the fireworks lit up the Parisian sky, the world bid farewell to a memorable Olympics while eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Los Angeles. With the United States leading the medal tally and India making its mark with six medals, the Paris Games will be remembered for their spectacular showcase of talent, innovation, and international friendship.