Sports
First Look: Stunning Photos from the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony
Images from the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games offer a captivating look at the grand and distinctly Parisian-themed event.
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Set against the backdrop of iconic French landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Seine River, the day unfolded in the rain as thousands of athletes arrived in the nation's capital to vie for Olympic gold.
The ceremony featured a range of musical performances, beginning with Lady Gaga’s cabaret-style act, complete with dramatic pink feathers and a brief piano segment. French artists Aya Nakamura and Rim’K also took the stage, followed by a poignant rendition of John Lennon’s “Imagine” by pianist Sofiane Pamart and singer Juliette Armanet.
The Eiffel Tower was illuminated with a spectacular light show showcasing the Olympic rings, while French President Emmanuel Macron and other leaders officially inaugurated the ceremony.
In a departure from tradition, French soccer legend Zinedine Zidane passed the Olympic torch to Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal, symbolizing France's commitment to global unity through the Games.
Nadal later departed the temporary stadium by boat, accompanied by Olympic icons Serena Williams, Carl Lewis, and Romanian gymnast Nadia Comaneci.
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A general view inside an apartment shows Parisians eagerly awaiting the festivities of the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games Opening Ceremony to reach them.
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Athlete boats glide along the River Seine as spectators seek shelter from the rain.
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Security patrols by boat in Paris, France, ahead of the opening ceremony.
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A spectator gestures, showcasing the Olympic rings dyed into their hair.
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Canadian athletes wave their flags after arriving at the Trocadero during the opening ceremony.
