Los Angeles made a grand entrance as it took over Olympic hosting duties for 2028 from Paris, showcasing stars like Tom Cruise and Billie Eilish at the closing ceremony. Despite the challenge of following Paris’ visually stunning Games, LA proved it has its own tricks up its sleeve. Cruise wowed the crowd by descending from the stadium roof, while Eilish and other California natives performed on Venice Beach.
The ceremony in Paris was a jubilant celebration, closing out two and a half weeks of Olympic sports and emotion. IOC President Thomas Bach called for a culture of peace in a troubled world, highlighting the role of the Olympics in inspiring unity. The athletes celebrated in the stadium, with French swimmer Léon Marchand collecting and extinguishing the Olympic flame, marking the end of the Paris Games.
The event featured performances, fireworks, and a festive atmosphere, with athletes from 205 countries coming together in a display of global unity. The closing ceremony emphasized the achievements of women, with the last medals awarded going to female marathon runners. The US team once again dominated the medal table, with gymnast Simone Biles leading the way.
The Paris Games, marked by joy and success, symbolized a major milestone in the city’s recovery from the 2015 terror attacks. The switch to spotlight women’s sporting feats and the celebration of Olympic symbols highlighted the inclusive and progressive nature of the event. As the Olympics hand over to LA for 2028, the world looks forward to another spectacular showcase of sports and unity.
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