As the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics come to a close, it’s evident that these Games will be remembered for their stunning achievements, heartfelt stories, and a few controversies that added layers of intrigue. From the iconic Opening Ceremony to the stirring Closing Ceremony, Paris provided a stage for both triumph and challenge. Here’s a look back at the most unforgettable moments from these spectacular Olympics.
Opening Ceremony: A Grand Spectacle with Controversies
The Opening Ceremony on July 24, 2024, was nothing short of a grand celebration of French culture and history. Held at the Stade de France, the event dazzled with a vibrant display of artistry, including the dramatic lighting of the Olympic flame by biathlon legend Martin Fourcade.
However, the ceremony was not without its share of controversy.French entertainer Philippe Katerine’s portrayal of Dionysus as the “semi-naked blue guy” drew significant criticism, with some viewing it as a mockery of Christian symbols.
While some saw it as a bold artistic statement meant to promote peace and unity, others found it deeply problematic, reflecting broader debates about the intersection of art, culture, and religion.
Despite the Opening Ceremony controversy, which was met with mixed feelings, we are glad athletes still shone bright, representing themselves and standing proud while representing God.
Breaking Records and Celebrating Extraordinary Athletes
The Paris Games saw numerous athletes making history and capturing hearts:
Simone Biles, already celebrated as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, added three gold medals and one silver to her collection. Her triumphant return to the Olympics, after overcoming personal and mental health challenges, was a testament to resilience and self-belief.
Katie Ledecky shone brightly, becoming the most decorated female Olympian with her four medals, including two golds. Her dedication to swimming and promoting water safety continues to inspire many.
Noah Lyles made headlines by winning the gold medal in the men’s 100-meter dash by the slimmest of margins – just five-thousandths of a second. Later, he revealed that he had tested positive for COVID-19 earlier in the week but still competed in the 200-meter race. Although his Paris journey ended with a gold and bronze medal, he reclaimed his title as the fastest man in the world.
Yusuf Dikeç, the Turkish shooter, achieved a remarkable feat with no specialized equipment, casually resting his hand in one pocket. Dikeç claimed Turkey’s first Olympic medal – a silver – in shooting, alongside teammate Şevval Ilayda Tarhan.
Yemisi Ogunleye, the German-Nigerian shot-putter, won gold for Germany in the women’s shot put event. Her victory was attributed to her strong faith and perseverance, overcoming a rough start and a sore knee.
Yang Jingru, the Chinese speed skater who had previously won gold at the 2024 Winter Youth Olympics in the women’s 1500 meters, brought her bold and fast strategy to the Paris Games, impressing with her performance.
Armand “Mondo” Duplantis broke a world record in pole vaulting, celebrating his achievement with a kiss from his girlfriend, adding a touch of cinematic flair to his victory.
Love, Faith, and Triumph: Olympic Athletes Credit God for Their Success
The City of Love has lived up to its reputation, as the Paris 2024 Olympics witnessed a record-breaking number of marriage proposals. Amidst the thrill of athletic competitions, the Games became a backdrop for heartfelt romantic gestures, setting a new standard for love and romance in the world of sports. With numerous proposals and tender moments, this year’s Olympics will be remembered not only for its remarkable feats of athleticism but also for its celebration of love and commitment.
In a remarkable display of faith and resilience, several Olympic athletes credited God for their success at the Paris Olympics. German shot-putter Yemisi Ogunleye, who won gold despite a rough start and a sore knee, attributed her victory to prayer, saying it was the source of her peace and joy. She even broke into an impromptu rendition of a gospel song during the post-event media conference.
Marileidy Paulino, the first woman from the Dominican Republic to win Olympic gold, also thanked God for her opportunity to excel, saying she didn’t compete for money but to motivate younger generations. US gymnast Simone Biles and her teammate Jordan Chiles showed sportsmanship and respect to Brazilian competitor Rebeca Andrade, who credited God for her success and broke into song during an interview.
These athletes, and several others, demonstrated strong faith and trust in God, which helped them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Their testimonies have inspired many, showcasing the power of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity. Through their victories and setbacks, they have proven that with God, anything is possible. As Yemisi Ogunleye said, “God’s mercy kept me, so I wouldn’t let go“.
Challenges and Controversies
No major event is without its hurdles, and the Paris Olympics were no exception. The Seine River, a central feature of the Games’ swimming events, faced issues with water quality that led to delays and cancellations.
Despite significant investments to clean the river, challenges with E. coli levels and resulting athlete illnesses were significant concerns.
Additionally, there were accommodation issues for some Olympians and heightened security concerns. Extra security assistance was requested from around the world to manage the increased security needs and ensure a safe environment for all participants and spectators.
Closing Ceremony: A Triumphant End
The Closing Ceremony on August 11, 2024, brought the Games to a fitting conclusion. With a spectacular display of French culture and a heartfelt passing of the Olympic flame to the next host city, the ceremony celebrated the unity and spirit of the Games.
A highlight of the evening was actor Tom Cruise’s dramatic live appearance, descending from the sky and delivering the Olympic flag to Los Angeles in a memorable motorcycle journey.
The Final Medal Count
Team USA emerged as the top-performing country, leading with a remarkable 126 medals. China followed with 91 medals, and Great Britain secured third place with 65 medals. Despite the initial challenges, the Paris Olympics were hailed as a tremendous success, showcasing the extraordinary talents and stories of athletes from around the globe.
As the Olympic flame dims in Paris, the memories of these Games will linger long after the closing ceremony. From record-breaking feats to touching personal stories, the Paris 2024 Olympics were a celebration of the human spirit, resilience, and the unifying power of sport. Here’s to the incredible athletes and unforgettable moments that made this a truly historic event.
Sophie