The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics wrapped up after an exhilarating 19 days of competition, showcasing elite athletes competing across 329 events. The grand finale, the Closing Ceremony, took place at Stade de France on Sunday night, marking a memorable handover to Los Angeles for the 2028 Games.
French swimmer Léon Marchand kicked off the ceremony by collecting the Olympic Flame from the iconic Jardin des Tuileries, setting the stage for a night of celebration and farewell. Representing China, co-flagbearers Li Fabin, the men's 61kg weightlifting champion, and Ou Zixia, the women's field hockey silver medalist, led their teams with pride.
Breaking with tradition, this year's Games concluded with the women's marathon instead of the men's, highlighting a progressive shift in the Olympic narrative. International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach officially declared the Games closed, marking his last appearance in his current role.
The highlight of the evening was the handover segment, where Paris passed the Olympic flag to the United States for Los Angeles 2028. Hollywood star Tom Cruise made a dramatic entrance, descending from the stadium roof on a wire to receive the flag, adding a touch of glamour to the proceedings.
In a historic moment, six athletes from five continents, along with one member from the Refugee Olympic Team, were invited to extinguish the Olympic Flame. Chinese table tennis star Sun Yingsha, who secured two gold medals and one silver, represented Asian athletes in this prestigious role. Her selection marks the first time a female Asian athlete has been chosen for this honor, celebrating her outstanding achievements and the spirit of diversity.
The Paris Olympics not only delivered thrilling sports moments but also set the stage for future Games, emphasizing inclusivity and groundbreaking milestones. As the world looks forward to Los Angeles 2028, the legacy of Paris 2024 continues to inspire athletes and fans alike.
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Olympics: Sun Yingsha represents Asian athletes at Closing Ceremony
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