The Paris 2024 Olympics ended in spectacular fashion on Sunday, marking the conclusion of a remarkable global sporting event. As the final ceremonies wrapped up, the world turned its attention to the next host city: Los Angeles.
A Memorable End to a Thrilling Competition
The United States tied with China for the most gold medals, each nation securing 40. However, the U.S. led in the overall medal count, finishing with an impressive total of 125 medals compared to China’s 91. The fierce competition across various sports disciplines highlighted the incredible talents and dedication of athletes from around the globe.
Unfortunately, not all victories were without controversy. “The International Olympic Committee has announced that U.S. gymnast Jordan Chiles will have to return her bronze medal from last week’s floor final.” The Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled her appeal, which had elevated her from fifth to third place, was invalid. This decision comes as a significant disappointment to Chiles, who had celebrated what seemed like a well-deserved victory.
In basketball, the U.S. women’s team narrowly defended their title against France, securing a 67-66 win to claim their eighth consecutive gold medal. The game was a nail-biter, showcasing the resilience and determination of the U.S. team as they continued their Olympic dominance in the sport.
The marathon event also provided its share of drama, with the Netherlands’ Sifan Hassan capturing gold in the women’s marathon. Hassan’s remarkable sprint in the final moments allowed her to pull away from Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa, who took silver, while Helen Obiri of Kenya secured the bronze. The medal ceremony during the closing event honored these extraordinary athletes and their achievements.
A Star-Studded Farewell
The closing ceremony was nothing short of spectacular, featuring performances from a host of international stars. French indie band Phoenix set the tone with an energetic performance, creating a festive atmosphere for the grand finale. The transition to Los Angeles was marked by a series of iconic performances from American artists, including H.E.R., Red Hot Chili Peppers, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and Billie Eilish. Perhaps the most memorable moment was a stunt by Tom Cruise, signalling the excitement that awaits at the Los Angeles Games.
Looking Ahead: Los Angeles 2028
As Paris bids farewell to the Games, the excitement now shifts to Los Angeles, which will host the 2028 Summer Olympics. The handover ceremony was a vibrant preview of what’s to come, promising a blend of Hollywood glamour and top-tier athletic competition. The world eagerly anticipates what Los Angeles has in store, with expectations running high for another unforgettable Olympic experience.
Don’t Miss the Paralympics
While the Olympic flame has been extinguished in Paris, the city is far from done with its celebration of sports. “The Paralympics are set to begin on August 28 and will run for 11 days.” These Games will feature incredible athletes showcasing their skills and determination across a range of events, continuing the spirit of competition and inclusion.
The Paris 2024 Olympics have been a showcase of exceptional talent, fierce competition, and global unity. As we look forward to the 2028 Games in Los Angeles, let us continue to celebrate the spirit of the Olympics by supporting the upcoming Paralympic athletes. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness more inspiring moments—mark your calendars for the Paralympics and be part of the ongoing legacy of these historic Games.
