Paris's Champs-Élysées and Place de la Concorde to Host Paralympic Opening Ceremony

Paris’s Champs-Élysées and Place de la Concorde to Host Paralympic Opening Ceremony

Paris, the City of Lights, is set to host the opening ceremony of the Summer Paralympics on Wednesday, August 24th, 2024. The iconic Champs-Élysées avenue and the historic Place de la Concorde will serve as the grand stage for this momentous event.

The Champs-Élysées, a two-kilometer-long tree-lined artery, is a symbol of French culture and celebration. It connects the Arc de Triomphe in the west with Place de la Concorde in the east, forming a single straight line. The avenue is adorned with cafes, palaces, and luxury shops, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

On Wednesday, the Champs-Élysées will transform into a vibrant parade ground, welcoming over 180 delegations and 4,400 para-athletes from around the world. The parade will be open to the public, allowing everyone to witness the spirit of unity and determination that defines the Paralympic Games.

At the other end of the Champs-Élysées lies Place de la Concorde, the largest square in Paris. This elegant paved square is defined by its towering obelisk, a gift from Egypt in 1830. The square has a somber past, having been the site of executions during the French Revolution. Today, it stands as a symbol of reconciliation and unity.

The official parade for ticket holders will take place in Place de la Concorde, featuring protocol and artistic sequences. The ceremony will celebrate the resilience and achievements of para-athletes, showcasing their extraordinary abilities and inspiring the world.

The opening ceremony of the Summer Paralympics in Paris promises to be a spectacle of grandeur and emotion. The Champs-Élysées and Place de la Concorde will provide a fitting backdrop for this celebration of human spirit and athleticism.

Parisian Volunteer Enchants Spectators at Eiffel Tower Olympic Venue

Parisian Volunteer Enchants Spectators at Eiffel Tower Olympic Venue

Joévin Burnel, a lifelong Parisian, has witnessed the Eiffel Tower countless times. Yet, the iconic structure continues to captivate him, especially during the Olympic Games. As a spectator experience volunteer at the Stade de Tour Eiffel, Burnel has spent countless hours at the venue, marveling at the beach volleyball matches and the breathtaking sunsets.

“It’s magical,” Burnel enthuses. “This is the best sports venue in the world, and it’s right in my city.” Despite not playing beach volleyball himself, Burnel is captivated by its fast-paced action and the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the temporary stadium.

Burnel’s Olympic experience has been enriched by the success of French swimmer Leon Marchand. However, he expresses a tinge of regret at not having collected any Olympic pins. “Everyone in the media tribune has so many pins,” he says, pointing to his empty lanyard.

Despite the long hours and physical demands of his volunteer role, Burnel remains enthusiastic. “I’m tired, but I’m happy,” he says. “This has been an incredible experience.”

Burnel’s passion for the Olympics and his love for Paris are evident in his dedication to providing a memorable experience for spectators. He believes that the Stade de Tour Eiffel is a testament to the city’s ability to host world-class sporting events.

As the Olympic Games draw to a close, Burnel reflects on the unforgettable moments he has shared at the Eiffel Tower. The magic of the structure, the excitement of the beach volleyball matches, and the camaraderie among volunteers have created memories that will last a lifetime.

Legendary Hockey Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh Retires After Paris Olympics Bronze

Legendary Hockey Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh Retires After Paris Olympics Bronze

Legendary Indian hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has bid farewell to his illustrious international career after helping India secure a bronze medal at the recently concluded Paris Olympics. The iconic shot-stopper, who has been a cornerstone of the Indian team for nearly two decades, was recently spotted in a viral social media post standing in front of the Eiffel Tower, proudly displaying his hard-earned bronze medal.

Sreejesh’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian hockey. The 36-year-old has been a rock-solid presence in the Indian goal, playing a pivotal role in the team’s success over the years. His agility, reflexes, and leadership have been instrumental in India’s rise to prominence in the international hockey arena.

Despite his retirement, Sreejesh remains optimistic about the future of Indian hockey. He believes that the country has an abundance of talent and that a suitable replacement for him will emerge in due time. “There won’t be a vacuum. Someone will come in my place, for sure,” Sreejesh said in an interview.

Sreejesh’s retirement has left a void in the Indian team, but he is confident that the younger generation of players will step up and fill his shoes. He has been offered a mentoring role in the Indian junior team set-up, where he hopes to impart his knowledge and experience to the next generation of hockey stars.

Sreejesh’s retirement is a bittersweet moment for Indian hockey. While the team will miss his presence on the field, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players. His unwavering dedication, passion, and love for the game have made him a true icon of Indian sport.

Eiffel Tower Evacuated as Man Scales Landmark Before Olympics Closing

Eiffel Tower Evacuated as Man Scales Landmark Before Olympics Closing

Eiffel Tower Evacuated as Man Scales Landmark Ahead of Olympics Closing Ceremony

Parisian authorities swiftly evacuated the area surrounding the iconic Eiffel Tower on Sunday afternoon after a shirtless man was spotted scaling the 330-meter (1,083-foot) structure. The incident occurred just hours before the scheduled closing ceremony of the Olympic Games.

The man’s ascent was first noticed around 3 pm, with witnesses reporting seeing him above the Olympic rings adorning the second section of the tower. It remains unclear where he began his climb, but he was spotted just above the first viewing deck.

Police immediately cordoned off the area and escorted visitors away from the tower. Some visitors who were briefly trapped on the second floor were allowed to exit approximately 30 minutes later.

The Eiffel Tower served as a prominent backdrop during the opening ceremony of the Olympics, with renowned singer Celine Dion performing from one of its viewing areas. However, it was not expected to play a role in the closing ceremony, which was set to take place at the Stade de France in the northern suburb of Saint-Denis at 9 pm.

The incident occurred as the Olympic competition drew to a close, and security services in Paris and beyond were shifting their focus to the closing ceremony. Over 30,000 police officers were deployed throughout Paris on Sunday, with approximately 3,000 officers mobilized around the Stade de France. An additional 20,000 police troops and security personnel were deployed in Paris and the Saint-Denis area to ensure safety on the final day of the Games.

PR Sreejesh: A Legend Inspiring the Next Generation of Indian Hockey

PR Sreejesh: A Legend Inspiring the Next Generation of Indian Hockey

PR Sreejesh: A Legend Inspiring the Next Generation of Indian Hockey Players

Just-retired Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring countless aspiring hockey players across the nation. His teammates, upon returning from the Paris Olympics with a second consecutive bronze medal, hailed Sreejesh as a true legend whose contributions will continue to shape the future of Indian hockey.

“Sreejesh is the epitome of a legend,” said forward Lalit Upadhyay. “He’s the ‘Great Wall’ of India, and his exceptional skills and unwavering dedication have set an unparalleled standard for goalkeepers. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire the next generation to strive for greatness.”

Upadhyay also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support hockey has received from the Indian public. “The love and passion for hockey in our country is unwavering,” he said. “It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the sport and the unwavering support of our fans.”

Skipper Harmanpreet Singh, who emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with 10 goals, was also lauded for his exceptional leadership and performance. “Harmanpreet has earned the nickname ‘Sarpanch’ for his exceptional leadership qualities,” said Upadhyay. “He’s a true captain who has led by example, inspiring his teammates to achieve their full potential.”

Defender Jarmanpreet Singh echoed Upadhyay’s sentiments, praising Sreejesh’s legendary status. “Sreejesh is a true icon,” he said. “His contributions to Indian hockey are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”

Jarmanpreet also acknowledged Harmanpreet’s remarkable performance in the tournament. “Harmanpreet is our team’s ‘goal machine,'” he said. “His ability to score crucial goals has been instrumental in our success.”

Reflecting on the team’s fighting spirit, Upadhyay recalled the quarterfinal match against Great Britain, where India played with only 10 men for over 40 minutes. “That match showcased the true character of our team,” he said. “We never gave up, and our determination ultimately led us to victory.”

As Sreejesh embarks on a new chapter in his life, his teammates wished him well. “I wish Sreejesh all the best in his future endeavors,” said Jarmanpreet. “He has been an incredible mentor and teammate, and his contributions to Indian hockey will never be forgotten.”

Roger Federer's Parisian Adventure: Ballet, Tennis, and Music in the City of Love

Roger Federer’s Parisian Adventure: Ballet, Tennis, and Music in the City of Love

Roger Federer, the legendary tennis icon, continues his global adventures with Uniqlo’s “24 Hours with Roger” video series. After exploring iconic cities like Tokyo, Shanghai, London, and New York City, Federer recently embarked on a captivating journey through the City of Love, Paris.

In the first episode, Federer delves into the world of ballet at the Palais Garnier. Guided by dance director José Martinez and étoile Léonore Baulac, he discovers the surprising similarities between ballet and tennis. Baulac observes Federer’s graceful footwork and attempts to execute a chassé using a tennis racket.

Next, Federer visits Fête le Mur, a tennis academy founded by Yannick Noah. Here, he interacts with young players from underprivileged communities, sharing his knowledge and inspiring them with his passion for the sport. Federer emphasizes the transformative power of tennis, noting that it goes beyond competition and becomes a way of life for these children.

Finally, Federer meets with his friend, renowned DJ Bob Sinclar. Together, they embark on a musical journey, creating a “Roger mix” that captures the essence of Federer’s historic Roland Garros 2009 victory. Sinclar overlays Federer’s voice with an existing track, producing a captivating anthem that resonates with the crowd.

Through these experiences, Federer not only showcases his love for tennis but also his appreciation for different cultures and art forms. He embraces the spirit of exploration, connecting with people from all walks of life and sharing his passion for excellence.

HS Prannoy Advances to Pre-Quarterfinals at Paris Olympics After Defeating Le Duc Phat

HS Prannoy Advances to Pre-Quarterfinals at Paris Olympics After Defeating Le Duc Phat

India’s HS Prannoy displayed resilience and determination to overcome a spirited challenge from Vietnam’s Le Duc Phat in the final group match of the men’s singles badminton event at the Paris Olympics. The 32-year-old from Kerala, who had recently recovered from chikungunya, showcased his fighting spirit to secure a hard-fought 16-21, 21-11, 21-12 victory over the world number 70 Le in a 62-minute battle.

Despite looking slightly fatigued and rusty in the opening game, Prannoy regained his composure and executed his game plan effectively in the subsequent games. The world number 13 trailed 8-7 early on, but a precise shot at the corner gave Le a crucial two-point lead. The Vietnamese continued to dominate the rallies, utilizing his jump smashes to trouble Prannoy. The Indian fell behind 11-15 after the break, but he managed to narrow the gap to 15-16 with an aggressive push at the back. However, Le extended his lead to 18-15 and eventually sealed the opening game when Prannoy went long.

After the change of sides, Prannoy seized the initiative and opened up a 4-0 lead. Le gradually applied pressure, but Prannoy maintained his composure and went into the break with an 11-7 cushion. The Indian looked calm and in control as he quickly wrapped up the second game to force a decider.

In the third game, Prannoy established a 6-4 lead before engaging in an aggressive flat exchange with Le. The Indian went wide, allowing Le to draw parity at 7-7. However, Prannoy regained control and grabbed an 11-8 lead after winning another aggressive flat exchange. The Indian stamped his class thereafter, while Le struggled to find his rhythm. Prannoy quickly closed out the match when Le found the net again.

With this victory, Prannoy advanced to the men’s singles pre-quarterfinals, where he will face fellow Indian Lakshya Sen in an all-Indian clash. Prannoy’s performance is a testament to his resilience and determination, as he overcame physical challenges to secure a spot in the knockout stage.

PV Sindhu Begins Paris Olympics Campaign with Dominant Win

PV Sindhu Begins Paris Olympics Campaign with Dominant Win

Two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu kicked off her Paris Olympics campaign with a dominant straight-games victory over Maldives’ Fathimath Abdul Razzaq in the women’s singles group stage match on Sunday.

The gulf in class between the two players was evident as Sindhu, aiming for a third Olympic medal, dispatched her lower-ranked opponent 21-9, 21-6 in just 29 minutes.

Sindhu, ranked 11th in the world, quickly assessed the conditions and took control of the proceedings, racing to an 11-4 lead in the first game. Razzaq, ranked 111th, proved no match for the former world champion, who wrapped up the first game in a mere 13 minutes.

The second game followed a similar pattern, with Sindhu claiming the first four points to take an early lead. Razzaq briefly closed the gap to 3-4, but Sindhu quickly extended her advantage to 10-3.

Sindhu had 14 match points, but she needed only one to seal the victory. The 10th-seeded Indian, who won silver in Rio 2016 and bronze in Tokyo 2020, will face World No. 75 Kristin Kuuba of Estonia in her second group match on Wednesday.

Earlier on Saturday, medal contenders Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty also made a winning start in the men’s doubles, while singles ace Lakshya Sen got his maiden Olympic campaign underway with a victory. However, the women’s doubles pair of Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto lost to South Korea’s Kim So Yeong and Kong Hee Yong.

India Eyes Three Badminton Medals at Paris Olympics, Sindhu Targets Hat-Trick

India Eyes Three Badminton Medals at Paris Olympics, Sindhu Targets Hat-Trick

PV Sindhu’s mentor, Prakash Padukone, believes India has a strong chance of winning three badminton medals at the Paris Olympics, including a historic hat-trick for Sindhu. India’s seven-member badminton squad includes Sindhu, the high-flying men’s doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, and other promising players.

Padukone is confident in Sindhu’s ability to secure her third consecutive Olympic medal. “She has worked incredibly hard for that,” he said. “Her preparations have gone well, and she is playing well in practice sessions.”

Padukone has been focusing on improving Sindhu’s tactics and strategy on the court. “I am focusing on tactics and strategy on the court, on what strokes to use when, and a little to do with the mind,” he explained. “We’ve worked on her mental strength and strategy, ensuring she makes better use of the right strokes.”

Despite Sindhu’s lack of titles this year, Padukone believes her ability to perform under pressure will be an asset at the Olympics. “Expectations are lower, and even reaching the quarterfinals will be seen positively,” he said. “But I am looking beyond that. If she is able to reproduce the form, like what she’s doing in practice, I think she’ll do better than in past tournaments.”

Padukone also identified Rankireddy and Shetty in men’s doubles, Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy in men’s singles as potential medal contenders. “We have a chance in all three events: men’s singles, women’s singles, and men’s doubles,” he said. “The men’s doubles pair, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty have been very consistent and have beaten top players.”

Badminton matches at the Paris Olympics will begin on Saturday, July 27. India’s strong squad and Padukone’s guidance give them a realistic chance of achieving their medal goals.

PV Sindhu Underdog for Paris Olympics, Satwik-Chirag Title Contenders

PV Sindhu Underdog for Paris Olympics, Satwik-Chirag Title Contenders

PV Sindhu, India’s two-time Olympic medalist, is considered an “underdog” for the upcoming Paris Olympics, according to former Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap. However, Kashyap emphasizes that Sindhu’s reputation and big-match experience will make opponents wary of her.

Despite not being in top form since recovering from a knee injury, Sindhu’s Olympic pedigree and past achievements give her an edge. Kashyap believes that opponents will be cautious when facing her, even if her recent form suggests otherwise.

Since the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, Sindhu has faced challenges with injuries and inconsistent performances. However, Kashyap highlights her attacking style and fitness level as strengths that make her a formidable opponent in major events.

In the men’s singles category, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty are considered title contenders for India. Kashyap believes their success in the Asian Games, Asian Championships, and World Championships makes them one of the favorites for the gold medal.

Their main competitors are expected to be the Chinese and Korean pairs. Kashyap notes that the Chinese pair has recently defeated Satwik-Chirag, while the Koreans have also posed a challenge.

HS Prannoy and Lakshya Sen are seen as “dark horses” in the men’s singles draw. Kashyap praises Lakshya’s performance in the All-England final and his qualification for the Olympics despite a tough period. He also highlights Prannoy’s multiple Super Series wins and medal-winning performances in the World Championships and Asian Games.

Both Prannoy and Lakshya have proven their ability to perform under pressure, especially in big matches. Kashyap believes they have the potential to upset higher-ranked opponents and progress in the tournament.

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