As Paris gears up for the 2024 Summer Olympics starting on July 26, excitement is palpable. The city of lights will shine even brighter as athletes and celebrities converge to witness and participate in this grand event. This year’s Games will feature the debut of breaking (breakdancing), a sport that promises high-energy performances and intense competition. At Place de la Concorde, transformed into a vibrant street culture venue, breakers will be judged on creativity, technique, and musicality as they battle for the inaugural Olympic gold in breaking.
Returning from Tokyo 2020, skateboarding, surfing, and sport climbing will continue to captivate audiences. Skateboarding events, featuring park and street disciplines, will kick off on July 27 and run until August 7. In the park, athletes will perform gravity-defying tricks in bowls and bends, while in street skateboarding, competitors will navigate a course designed to mimic urban settings.
Surfing, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tahiti’s Teahupo’o surf break, will see surfers showcase their skills in powerful waves over a 10-day window, depending on weather conditions. This event will be a highlight for thrill-seekers as athletes aim to impress with their speed, power, and fluid maneuvers.
Sport climbing, expanded to include separate medals for speed climbing and a combined bouldering and lead event, will be held from August 5 to August 10. The competition will see athletes racing up walls of varying difficulty and speed, making for an exhilarating spectacle.
Adding to the excitement, kayak cross will make its debut, offering a thrilling race where four athletes compete head-to-head on a slalom course. This event promises intense action as competitors navigate gates and execute challenging maneuvers, adding a fresh dynamic to the canoe slalom events.
The 2024 Olympics will also be a star-studded affair with celebrities like Usain Bolt, who has retired from competition but continues to be an Olympic ambassador, and Hollywood stars such as Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie expected to attend. Tennis legend Serena Williams and basketball icon LeBron James will also be present, not as competitors but as part of the Olympic experience, lending their star power to the event.
With a blend of new sports and beloved classics, along with the glamour of celebrity attendees, the Paris 2024 Olympics is set to deliver unforgettable moments and celebrate the spirit of competition and camaraderie on a global stage.