The Paris 2024 Olympics drew to a close with a dazzling ceremony at the Stade de France, packed to the rafters as it had been throughout the 16-day sporting extravaganza featuring 32 disciplines.
With the Games concluded, the Olympic countdown clock reset, this time ticking towards Los Angeles. Sports enthusiasts can now circle July 21, 2028, on their calendars – a date 1,439 days in the future.
Israel has every reason to celebrate these Games, having amassed an unprecedented seven medals – a new national record. The country's impressive haul includes a gold medal from windsurfer Tom Reuveni, silver medals from judokas Raz Hershko and Inbar Lanir, another silver from gymnast Artem Dolgopyat and the rhythmic gymnastics team, a silver from windsurfer Sharon Kantor, and a bronze from Peter Paltchik.
Video: Tom Reuveni speaks after winning gold / Credit: AFP
The honor of bearing Israel's flag at the closing ceremony fell to Reuveni , who remained in France and made the journey from Marseille to Paris in recent days, alongside Romi Paritzki, captain of the gymnastics team.
The ceremony commenced with the Olympic flame, which had been dramatically lit atop a hot air balloon during the opening festivities. The privilege of carrying the flame into the stadium was bestowed upon swimmer Leon Marchand, who dominated the pool with four gold medals.
Following a stirring rendition of the French national anthem, flag bearers from all participating nations entered the Stade de France. They were followed by the remaining athletes who had stayed in Paris for the grand finale.
