The torch procession for the Olympic Games in Paris has reached the Louvre, with Rafael Nadal and Zinedine Zidane participating in the event. Other key athletes, including Amélie Mauresmo, Nadia Comăneci, Serena Williams, and Carl Lewis, have also been seen carrying the torch. The torch journey involved a light show around the Eiffel Tower with lasers and dramatic choreography.
The opening ceremony featured speeches from French President Emmanuel Macron, IOC President Thomas Bach, and Paris 2024 President Tony Estanguet. Bach highlighted the solidarity of the Olympic Games, while Estanguet emphasized the importance of hosting the ceremony in the heart of Paris. The ceremony included a video segment honoring individuals for their commitment to using sports for positive social change.
As the Olympic flag was raised and the anthem played, the event transitioned to a more formal section with the presentation of national flags. A visually stunning moment occurred when a metal horse was carried down the Seine River to deliver the Olympic flag. This was a unique and iconic moment of the evening’s events.
Overall, the opening ceremony showcased the spirit of the Olympics and celebrated the unity of athletes from around the world. The event set the stage for the upcoming Olympic Games, promising a sustainable, inclusive, and gender-equal competition. Despite some technical challenges, the ceremony was well-received in Paris, with attendees including the French team and various dignitaries.
Source
Photo credit www.theguardian.com