Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony: Manu Bhaker and Sreejesh Lead Indian Contingent as Los Angeles Takes the Baton

PARIS, Aug 11 (Reuters) — The Paris 2024 Olympics concluded with a spectacular closing ceremony at Stade de France, marking a successful end to the 33rd edition of the Summer Games. The grand event, celebrated as a tribute to humanity and the unifying power of sport, saw the Olympic baton passed to Los Angeles for the 2028 Games. The ceremony featured performances by over 270 artists and was attended by more than 9,000 athletes from around the world.

Historic Farewell to Paris 2024

The ceremony began with French swimming star Léon Marchand, who won four golds and a bronze in Paris, extinguishing the Olympic cauldron and carrying the flame to the stadium. The Parade of Nations followed, led by French rugby icon Antoine Dupont, with flagbearers from all 205 participating countries making their way into the stadium.

Paris bid farewell to an Olympic Games that rejuvenated the spirit of the event, overcoming the challenges of the 2016 Rio Games and the subdued Tokyo 2020 due to COVID-19. Paris 2024 was marked by an outpouring of local and global enthusiasm, turning the city into a vibrant celebration of sport. "We wanted to dream. We got Marchand," Paris 2024 chief Tony Estanguet remarked. "From a country of grumblers, we became a country of frenzied fans."

Manu Bhaker and PR Sreejesh Lead Indian Contingent

Indian athletes Manu Bhaker and PR Sreejesh had the honor of leading the Indian contingent during the closing ceremony. Bhaker, who made history by winning two medals at this edition of the Games—bronze in women's 10m air pistol and in the mixed team event—was joined by Sreejesh, who played a pivotal role in securing the bronze medal in men's hockey. Although Neeraj Chopra, who won a silver medal in javelin, was initially slated to accompany Bhaker, Sreejesh was chosen for the honor alongside Bhaker.

Reflecting on the experience, Sreejesh expressed, “Got this opportunity to carry this flag at the closing ceremony. Fantastic. And Manu, two medals. Great Olympics for her.” Bhaker added, “I feel great, and carrying the flag in the closing ceremony would be an honor of a lifetime, and I’ll always cherish this memory.”

Paris 2024: A Celebration of Sport

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach praised Paris 2024 as "sport at its best." He described the Games as "sensational" and humorously referred to them as "Seine-sational," a nod to the river flowing through Paris, which was central to the opening ceremony. "Dear French friends, you have fallen in love with the Olympic Games. And we have fallen in love with all of you," Bach added.

A Glimpse of Los Angeles 2028

The ceremony also offered a preview of what Los Angeles will bring to the 2028 Olympics. Hollywood star Tom Cruise made a dramatic entrance, abseiling from the roof of Stade de France, receiving the Olympic flag, and then riding a motorbike. The ceremony transitioned to a pre-recorded segment where Cruise skydived into Los Angeles, with the Olympic rings prominently displayed on the Hollywood sign.

Los Angeles showcased its vibrant culture with performances by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Eilish, and rappers Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. The event marked the official start of the four-year countdown to the LA Games. Simone Biles, along with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, formally received the Olympic flag, signifying the beginning of preparations for the 2028 Games.