The Paris Olympics 2024 concluded with a spectacular closing ceremony at the Stade de France, featuring a breathtaking stunt by Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise. The event marked the official handover to Los Angeles, the host city for the 2028 Olympics.
Key Takeaways
- Tom Cruise rappelled from the roof of the Stade de France.
- The Olympic flag was handed over to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.
- Performances by international artists including H.E.R., Billie Eilish, and Snoop Dogg.
- USA topped the medal tally with 126 medals.
Tom Cruise’s Daring Stunt
Hollywood’s top gun, Tom Cruise, made a dramatic entrance by rappelling from the roof of the Stade de France. The 160-foot descent ended with Cruise taking the Olympic flag from Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who was accompanied by US gymnast Simone Biles. Cruise then exited the stage on a motorcycle, flag in tow, to the roaring applause of the 80,000-seat stadium.
The ceremony transitioned to a prerecorded video showing Cruise skydiving down to the Hollywood sign, where the Olympic rings were incorporated into the famous LA landmark. The flag was then passed among U.S. Olympians as it traversed the city, culminating in a beach party featuring performances by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Eilish, and Snoop Dogg.
Musical Performances
The closing ceremony was a musical extravaganza. French singer-songwriter Zaho de Sagazan opened the event with a rendition of Edith Piaf’s "Sous le Ciel de Paris." The stadium then went dark to introduce The Golden Voyager, a character inspired by French history.
Phoenix, a French indie rock band, and artist Kavinsky performed their hit numbers, captivating the audience. Pianist Alain Roche and opera singer Benjamin Bernheim delivered a stunning aerial performance of "The Hymn to Apollo."
The transition to the LA2028 Olympics began with Grammy Award-winning R&B singer H.E.R. singing the American National Anthem. Billie Eilish performed her hit song "Birds of a Feather," and the Red Hot Chili Peppers rocked the beach with "Can’t Stop." Snoop Dogg closed the musical segment with "Drop It Like It’s Hot" and "The Next Episode."
Medal Tally
The USA topped the medal tally with a total of 126 medals, including 40 gold, 44 silver, and 42 bronze. China followed with 91 medals, and Japan secured third place with 45 medals. India finished at the 71st spot, bringing home six medals.
Conclusion
The Paris Olympics 2024 closing ceremony was a fitting end to a spectacular event, setting the stage for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. With unforgettable performances and a dramatic flag handover, the world now looks forward to what LA has in store.
