The breathtaking Stade de France was turned into a large concert hall to mark the end of the Paris Olympics with a stunning closing ceremony.
These standout moments from the Olympics highlight the triumphs, controversies, and unique experiences that define the Games. From record-breaking performances and sustainable initiatives to behind-the-scenes glimpses and historic venues, the Olympics inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Image Source: Twitter
The floor exercise final was meant to be a shining moment, with two U.S. gymnasts, Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles, earning silver and bronze medals respectively, and bowing to Brazil's Rebeca Andrade, who took gold. However, this ceremony quickly turned controversial. Jordan Chiles initially won her bronze medal following a last-minute score inquiry that boosted her score by a tenth of a point, moving her from fifth to third place, overtaking a Romanian gymnast. Romania protested, arguing that Chiles' inquiry was filed too late. On Saturday, an independent arbitrator agreed, stating the inquiry was indeed submitted four seconds past the deadline. Olympic officials then asked Chiles to return her medal. In a surprising twist, the U.S. team later claimed to have video evidence proving the inquiry was submitted within the allowed time. The situation remains unresolved, casting a shadow over the event and highlighting issues in gymnastic judging and administration.
Image Source: Twitter
On the same night Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone defended her gold in the 400-meter hurdles and set a new world record, most spectators had left the Stade de France stadium when an unexpected show began. Volunteers in teal uniforms started a coordinated effort to clear the hurdles from the track, turning their task into a choreographed performance. Their dedication and enthusiasm were evident, and they even held an impromptu 100-meter race on the purple track. This spontaneous display provided a rare glimpse of "normal" people engaging in athletic endeavours, contrasting with the elite performances of Olympic sprinters.
Image Source: Twitter
The Paris Olympics aimed to be the most sustainable Games in modern history. A prominent part of this effort was the use of red plastic "eco-cups" at concession stands. Instead of receiving beverages in disposable plastic bottles, attendees paid a 2€ deposit for a reusable cup, which was refunded upon return. This initiative significantly reduced plastic waste and was a visible reminder of the Games' commitment to sustainability.
Image Source: Twitter
Steph Curry, having achieved almost everything in basketball, including four NBA titles, two MVP awards, and two gold medals in the FIBA World Cup, had never participated in the Olympics. At 36, Curry was determined to make the most of his first Olympic appearance in Paris. He embraced the experience fully, cheering for other athletes, trading pins and autographs, and aiming for Olympic gold. The U.S. men's basketball team faced a tough semifinal against Serbia, where Curry's performance, including nine three-pointers and 36 points, was crucial. In the gold medal match against France, Curry's four triples in the final minutes secured the victory, earning him the moniker "the devil named Curry" from the French announcer.
Image Source: Twitter
A personal highlight was watching the Paris Summer Games in the Lutetia Arena, an ancient Roman arena that has hosted events since the 1st century AD. Sitting on stone benches, spectators watched the competitions unfold on big screens, connecting with a long history of public spectacles. This experience underscored the creativity of using Paris's historic sites as venues and backdrops for the Olympics.
Image Source: Twitter
The atmosphere at La Defense Arena was electric during Léon Marchand's first medal race. The 22-year-old French swimmer easily captivated his nation by winning the 400-meter individual medley. The crowd synchronized their cheers with each breath Marchand took during the breaststroke segment, creating an unforgettable and emotional moment of national pride.
Image Source: Twitter
Olympic athletes often showcase remarkable endurance and resilience, but Dutch runner Sifan Hassan's performance stood out. Hassan won the women's marathon on Sunday, adding to her two bronze medals in the 5,000 meters and 10,000 meters earlier in the week. Competing in the marathon after such intense races demonstrated her incredible stamina and determination.
Also Read: Top 5 Biggest Controversies at the Paris Olympics 2024
Give Your Feedback