Paris Olympics: Manu Bhaker & PR Sreejesh Lead India During Closing Ceremony

The 2024 Paris Olympics officially concluded on August 11 with a spectacular closing ceremony at the iconic Stade de France, marking the end of a historic event that began on July 26. The closing ceremony lasted approximately three hours and was a fitting conclusion to weeks of intense competition, performances, and moments.

Paris Bids Farewell To The 2024 Olympics With A Grand Closing Ceremony

The 2024 Olympics opened in a unique fashion on July 26, with a ceremony held on the picturesque Seine River. However, the closing ceremony returned to tradition, taking place in the Stade de France, which was transformed into a grand stage to celebrate the Olympic Games as a monumental human achievement.

The ceremony was attended by over 71,000 spectators at the stadium, while millions more watched from around the globe. The event celebrated not only the athletic achievements of nearly 850 medallists but also the 42 records that were shattered during the Games, including 10 world records and 32 Olympic records.

A Tribute to Paris and the Olympic Spirit

The closing ceremony kicked off with a musical performance that paid homage to the host city, Paris. The Olympic flame, which had travelled from the Louvre, made its final journey to the Stade de France, symbolising the end of the Games.

French President Emmanuel Macron and International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach were in attendance, marking the occasion with the raising of the French national flag and the Olympic flag. The national anthem of France, La Marseillaise, was performed by the Maîtrise de Fontainebleau and Orchestre Divertimento, conducted by Zahia Ziouani, adding a sense of grandeur to the event.

A Parade of Athletes and Flag Bearers

The ceremony also featured the traditional parade of athletes, with flag bearers leading the way. This year, athletes from 205 delegations took part in the parade, entering the arena together in a display of unity and celebration. The stage, designed to resemble a planisphere, served as the centre of the parade, symbolising the global nature of the Olympics.

Representing Team USA at the closing ceremony were swimmer Katie Ledecky and rower Nick Mead, both of whom had outstanding performances during the Games. Ledecky, who now holds the record for the most Olympic medals won by an American woman, and Mead, the first rower to serve as a flag bearer, led the U.S. delegation with pride. 

India was represented by double bronze medallist shooter Manu Bhaker and double bronze medallist hockey goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh, who proudly carried their nation's flag. Their achievements were a highlight for India, and their role as flag bearers was a fitting tribute to their success.

Star-Studded Performances and Surprise Appearances

The closing ceremony was not just about tradition and celebration; it was also a star-studded affair. Performances by global music icons Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, and H.E.R. added a contemporary flair to the event, delighting the audience.

In a surprising twist, actor Tom Cruise made an unexpected appearance. In true Mission Impossible style, Cruise descended from the top of the stadium on a cable as the theme music from the movie played. After receiving the Olympic flag from gymnast Simone Biles, Cruise made a dramatic exit, riding out of the stadium on a motorcycle with the flag in tow.

Upcoming Olympics and Paralympic Events

The next Olympics will take place in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, from February 6–22, 2026, marking the return of the Winter Games. For Summer Olympic fans, the wait will be a bit longer, with the next Summer Games scheduled for July 14–30, 2028, in Los Angeles.

However, fans don't have to wait long for more inspirational performances. The 2024 Paralympics are set to begin on August 28 and will run until September 8, promising another round of inspiring athletic performances.