The Paris 2024 Olympics concluded with surprises, twists, and a grand closing ceremony. The final day was as thrilling as ever. The USA and China ended up with 40 gold medals each, but the USA took the lead in total medals with 125, compared to China's 91.
Drama and Triumphs on the Final Day of the Games
It was also a day of drama. The International Olympic Committee informed American gymnast Jordan Chiles that she would need to return the bronze medal she won in last week's floor exercise final. The Court of Arbitration for Sport decided that her appeal, which had moved her from 5th to 3rd place, was invalid. A tough blow for Chiles and her adoring fans.
In basketball, the USA women's team extended their legacy with a 67-66 victory over France, securing their 8th consecutive Olympic gold. The game was thrilling, with France pushing the Americans to their limits in front of a frenzied home crowd. In the end, experience and resilience clinched the win for Team USA.
On the streets of Paris, the women's marathon was one of the highlights of the day. Sifan Hassan from the Netherlands won gold in a sprint finish, pulling away from Ethiopia's Tigst Assefa in the last 100 meters. Kenya's Helen Obiri took home the bronze. The marathon medals were awarded during the closing ceremony, contributing to the emotional tone of the night.
The closing ceremony was a star-studded event. French indie band Phoenix kicked off the celebration in the packed stadium. The transition to the Los Angeles 2028 Games featured a stunt by Tom Cruise and performances by H.E.R., Red Hot Chili Peppers, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and Billie Eilish. The handover from Paris to Los Angeles was a beautiful reminder of the global reach and cultural impact of the Olympic Games.
As the flame was extinguished and the Paris Games came to a close, attention turned to the Paralympic Games, which will also be held in Paris. The Paralympics begin on August 28 and run until September 8, promising more incredible stories of athletic heroism.
If you want to relive the Paris Olympics, every moment and every medal can be watched on Peacock. As we bid farewell to Paris 2024, anticipation for Los Angeles 2028 is already in full swing.
