PARIS, France: Simone Biles crowned the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris with an unforgettable performance both on and off the competition floor.
The 27-year-old gymnast, who won three gold medals and one silver, proudly carried the Olympic flag at the closing ceremony on August 11. Despite battling slight soreness in her calf, Biles proved to be a symbol of excellence and resilience.
During the ceremony at the Stade de France, Biles joined Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass in singing the American national anthem, while musician HER sang the American national anthem. This marked the transition from the Paris Games to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, a moment filled with anticipation and excitement. Hollywood icon Tom Cruise added to the spectacle by making a dramatic entrance before taking the flag from Biles.
Cruise’s involvement didn’t end there; he continued the show in a pre-recorded video in which he raced through the streets of Paris, past famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, before boarding a plane, signaling his “arrival” in Los Angeles.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the flag to Olympic legends such as cyclist Kate Courtney and track and field star Michael Johnson, followed by an electrifying performance by the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Billie Eilish on Venice Beach.
The evening marked a fitting end to Biles’ remarkable Olympic journey in Paris and set the stage for what promises to be an exciting 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
