Paris Olympics kick off with a stunning, never-seen-before ceremony
It was very extraordinary. After promising an Olympic opening ceremony never seen before, france really followed through on its promises. The greatest athletic event was hosted outdoors instead of in a regular stadium for the first time ever. Thousands of onlookers lined the central portion of the city, which hosted a four-hour opening ceremony, while athletes in a floating 'Parade of Nations' were transported across a 6km length of the Seine River by boats. The olympic games made a grand return to the City of Lights after a century, and the rain did not depress the competitors, entertainers, or spectators.
Following a stirring statement by international Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach, who welcomed athletes from 206 NOCs, including the Refugee Olympic Team, French President Emmanuel Macron officially opened the Olympic Games. With john Lenon's assistance, Bach emphasised the need for unity in "a world torn apart by wars and conflicts". Following a remarkable performance of john Lenon's Imagine by French singer-songwriter Juliette Armanet, Thomas Bach delivered his address.
The most well-known landmarks in paris were showcased at the inaugural ceremony, which was enhanced by decorated musicians like Lady Gaga and Celine Dion. Twelve themes—liberty, equality, brotherhood, sisterhood, sportsmanship, and festivity—formed the foundation of the unique event.
"This marks the culmination of your adventure. You are an athlete who has travelled to Paris. You are now Olympians. As soon as you enter the Olympic Village, you understand that you are a part of something greater. Each of us is a part of a global unifying event. We all treat each other and the same rules with respect. We belong in our Olympic world. We are Olympians; we look out for one another. We live in solidarity with one another, not only with respect for one another," Bach remarked.
After a humorous pre-recorded movie featuring legendary football player Zinedine Zidane, the Olympic flame was moved from Stade de paris to the ceremony's outdoor venue. A spectacular spectacle honouring renowned sportsmen like Zidane, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, Nadia Comaneci, and Carl Lewis marked the conclusion of the event. At the Gardens of the Tuileries, Teddy Riner and Marie-Jose Perec lighted the Olympic cauldron, followed by Carlos Coste, the oldest living gold medallist from france at the age of 100.