The 2024 Summer Olympics: A Spectacular Closing Ceremony in Paris

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_{The 2024 Summer Olympics concluded with a grand ceremony at the Stade de France in Paris on the evening of August 11. Over 71,000 spectators filled the stadium, while around 9,000 athletes and support teams from more than 200 countries gathered on the field, celebrating the end of the Games that had captivated the world.}

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_{The ceremony, aptly titled "Records," was a tribute to the rich history and promising future of the Olympic Games. It began with a touching homage to Paris, as French singer Zaho de Sagazan and a choir performed "Sous le ciel de Paris" ("Under the Sky of Paris") in the Tuileries Garden near the Louvre. The event featured over 100 performers, including acrobats, dancers, and circus artists, all contributing to a vibrant display of artistry and athleticism.}

_{One of the most memorable moments of the night was the performance by pianist Alain Roche, who played the "Hymn of Apollo" on a grand piano suspended vertically in the air. As he finished, the five Olympic rings appeared in the sky, forming a unified projection—a breathtaking symbol of global unity.}

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_{The ceremony also marked the official handover of the Olympic flag from Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, as the Californian city prepares to host the next Summer Games in 2028. Adding to the excitement, Hollywood actor Tom Cruise made a dramatic entrance, descending from the roof of the Stade de France, seizing the Olympic flag, and speeding through the streets of Paris on a motorcycle before boarding a plane—a scene straight out of his "Mission: Impossible" films.}

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_{International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach delivered a powerful speech, highlighting the historic gender parity achieved at the 2024 Games. He praised the athletes for fostering a "culture of peace" through their participation, urging everyone to "live this culture of peace every day."}

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Olympic Highlights and Results

_{The United States topped the medal table with 40 golds, 44 silvers, and 42 bronzes, narrowly edging out China, which also secured 40 gold medals but fewer silver and bronze.}

_{Germany, despite earning 33 medals including 12 golds, experienced its least successful Olympic outing since reunification, finishing 10th overall.}

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_{The next Summer Olympic Games will take place from July 14 to 30, 2028, in the United States. The following Winter Olympics are scheduled to be held in Italy from February 6 to 22, 2026.}

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