The 2024 Paris Olympics kicked off with a spectacular Opening Ceremony on Friday, despite challenges like arson and rain. The historic event took place on water, with athletes parading down the Seine River. Some highlights included Lady Gaga singing in French, a masked torchbearer ziplining across Paris, and the epic lighting of the Olympic cauldron. Team USA was led by Coco Gauff and LeBron James in the Parade of Nations. The ceremony also featured a stunning Eiffel Tower light show and appearances from sports legends like Serena Williams, Carl Lewis, and Rafael Nadal.
The Olympic flame was passed to the cauldron by French Olympians Teddy Riner and Marie-José Pérec, and a breathtaking moment involved the cauldron taking off in a hot-air balloon. The evening closed with an iconic performance from Celine Dion on the Eiffel Tower. The singer’s return to the stage after battling stiff-person syndrome was a heartwarming moment. Overall, the Opening Ceremony was a memorable start to the Paris Olympics, showcasing the city’s history, culture, and spirit of unity. The event set the stage for an exciting and competitive Games ahead.
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