The 2024 Olympic Games have taken the world by storm, bringing together athletes, celebrities, and spectators in the City of Light. From thrilling performances to unexpected controversies, this year’s Olympics have been nothing short of spectacular. Let’s get into the details of this grand sporting event.
When and where did the 2024 Olympics take place?
The Games unfolded over two thrilling weeks, from Friday, July 26 through Sunday, August 11, 2024. Paris served as the primary host city, with events scattered across 35 venues throughout the French capital and surrounding areas. Notably, the surfing events took place in the picturesque waters of Teahupo’o, Tahiti, adding an exotic flair to the Games.
What made the opening ceremony unique this year?
In a historic first, the opening ceremony broke free from the confines of a stadium. Instead, it unfolded along the iconic River Seine, with boats carrying national delegations of athletes. Despite a steady rain, the ceremony painted a breathtaking picture of French culture and international unity.
Who were the performers at the 2024 Olympics?
The opening ceremony featured an impressive lineup of French and international artists. French musicians Gojira, Aya Nakamura, Philippe Katerine, and Juliette Armanet showcased their rich musical talent. International superstars Lady Gaga and Céline Dion also graced the stage, adding their star power to the already dazzling event.
What can we expect from the closing ceremony?
The closing ceremony, set to air live on NBC and Peacock from 2 p.m. ET on Sunday, August 11, promises to be another spectacular event. While many details are still under wraps, organizers have hinted at a show that will take place partly in the air, featuring giant sets, elaborate costumes, and colourful lighting effects. In an exciting twist, American actor, Tom Cruise has reportedly recorded a sky-diving stunt to air during the ceremony, marking the handoff from Paris to the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
Were there any controversies during the Games?
As with any major event, the 2024 Olympics had its share of controversies. The opening ceremony’s “Last Supper” style presentation, which featured drag queens and queer people, sparked outrage among some Christians and celebrities, including fitness guru Jillian Michaels.
In athletics, French pole vaulter Anthony Ammirati faced an unfortunate incident where his crotch knocked the bar during his vault, costing him a chance at the finals. This unusual occurrence has fast become a talking point among Olympics viewers, and one of the most controversial moments of the event.
A feud between former teammates Simone Biles and MyKayla Skinner erupted after Skinner made controversial comments about the current US women’s gymnastics team, stating, “Besides Simone, I feel like the talent and the depth just isn’t like what it used to be, I mean, obviously, a lot of girls don’t work as hard. The girls just don’t have the work ethic.” Ofcourse, the girls went on to win Olympic medals and the situation has since escalated to the point where Skinner called on Biles to help stop the surge of “hateful comments” from internet trolls.
In the boxing ring, Algerian boxer Imane Khelif found herself at the center of a political controversy over women’s participation in sports after a match with Italian boxer Angela Carini, who withdrew from the fight after less than a minute, resulting in claims that Khelif had failed two gender eligibility tests administered by a boxing federation, Olympic officials dismissed these tests as “illegitimate” and defended her participation.
Which celebrities attended the Olympics?
The 2024 Paris Olympics drew an impressive roster of A-list celebrities. First, Beyonce welcomed Team USA to the 2024 Olympics, while other Hollywood stars like Tom Cruise and Charlize Theron were spotted in the crowds, along with renowned directors Greta Gerwig, Steven Spielberg, and Spike Lee. Former Olympic athletes Shaun White, Michael Phelps, and Serena Williams returned to the Olympic stage, this time as spectators cheering on the new generation of athletes.
The star-studded attendee list also included Seth Rogen, Kendall Jenner, Anna Wintour, Zendaya, Jessica Chastain, Bill Gates, Nina Dobrev, Nick Jonas, Pharrell, Snoop Dogg, and Ariana Grande. Even First Lady Jill Biden made an appearance, highlighting the global significance of the event.
As the 2024 Paris Olympics draw to a close, the games have proven to be a show of athletic prowess, cultural celebration, and global unity, creating memories that embody the olympic spirit long after it’s over.
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Photos by Getty Images
Written by Angel Joanne Okonkwo
