What's happened
The Paris Olympics 2024 kicked off with a rainy opening ceremony, impacting athletes and events. First Lady Jill Biden attended a star-studded celebration, while Ukrainian tennis player Anhelina Kalinina withdrew due to illness from the weather. The event showcased both the glamour and challenges of hosting the Games in adverse conditions.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, the opening ceremony was marked by heavy rain, which left many athletes drenched but undeterred. Jill Biden's attendance at a lavish party hosted by Ralph Lauren was noted by the New York Times, emphasizing the blend of sports and celebrity culture. Meanwhile, Kalinina's withdrawal due to illness was reported by The Independent, highlighting the health risks posed by the weather. The SBS article noted the unique outdoor setting of the ceremony, which, despite the rain, attracted over 300,000 spectators, showcasing the event's significance.
How we got here
The Paris Olympics began on July 26, 2024, featuring a unique opening ceremony along the Seine River. Heavy rain affected the event, leading to delays and health concerns among athletes, including Ukrainian tennis player Anhelina Kalinina, who withdrew due to illness.
Common question
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What Are the Water Quality Concerns for the Paris Olympics 2024?
As the Paris 2024 Olympics unfold, water quality issues in the Seine River have raised significant concerns, particularly for triathletes. With the events approaching, many are left wondering how these challenges might impact the games and athlete safety. Below, we explore the current situation and its implications for the future of sporting events.
More on these topics
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Paris is the capital and most populous city of France, with an estimated population of 2,150,271 residents as of 2020, in an area of 105 square kilometres.
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The modern Olympic Games or Olympics are leading international sporting events featuring summer and winter sports competitions in which thousands of athletes from around the world participate in a variety of competitions.
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Jill Tracy Jacobs Biden is an American educator who served as second lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017. She is married to Joe Biden, the 47th vice president of the United States, and the Democratic Party presidential nominee for the 2020 electio