References to French culture, lighting effects, acrobats, dancers, actors, singers, and more than 9,000 athletes made up the spectacular closing ceremony of the Olympic Games in Paris 2024. Over 70,000 people watched the event live in the stadium, while millions more followed on TV or online.

With over 9,000 athletes in attendance and a surprise appearance by Tom Cruise, the event was full of excitement and set the stage for Los Angeles 2028.

Notable athletes included swimmers Leon Marchand, Katie Ledecky, Kaylee McKeown, and Gregorio Paltrinieri; rugby player Antoine Dupont; cyclist Pauline Ferrand-Prevot; and gymnast Simone Biles. 

Artistic director Thomas Jolly delivered an impressive performance, with French pianist and singer Benjamin Bernheim performing the Hymn to Apollo while Alain Roche played piano suspended vertically in the air. 

Anne Hidalgo, mayor of Paris, handed the Olympic flag to her counterpart in Los Angeles, Karen Bass, accompanied by Simone Biles. The biggest surprise of the night was the appearance of Tom Cruise while H.E.R. sang the U.S. national anthem.

The broadcast also featured a video of the Paris to Los Angeles handover, including performances by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, singer Billie Eilish, and rapper Snoop Dogg. 

Medal table

In the Paris 2024 medal tally, the United States overtook China, both winning 40 gold medals, but the U.S. secured more silver and bronze. Japan finished third with 20 golds, while France, the host nation, came fifth with 16 gold medals. 

Argentina finished in 52nd place with three medals: gold for José “Maligno” Torres in BMX Freestyle, silver for Mateo Majdalani and Eugenia Bosco in Nacra 17 Sailing, and bronze for Las Leonas. The top South American nation was Brazil, placing 20th with 20 medals. 

Next edition of the Olympic Games will be held from July 14 to 30, 2028, in Los Angeles, United States, introducing five new sports: baseball, cricket, squash, flag football, and lacrosse, all with strong historical ties to the host country.