Iconic Moments as the Olympic Cauldron is Lit at the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony

The vibrant city of Paris witnessed a historic and awe-inspiring event as the Olympic Cauldron was lit during the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony. The event, broadcasted by NBC Sports, showcased legendary French athletes passing the Olympic torch in a breathtaking relay, culminating in a da**ling display of unity and sportsmanship.

The relay began with an impressive lineup of international stars, including Olympic champions Carl Lewis, Rafael Nadal, Nadia Comăneci, and Serena Williams, each bringing the torch a step closer to its final destination. This star-studded journey highlighted the spirit of the Olympics, where former number one tennis player and Olympic silver medalist, Amélie Mauresmo, represented the host nation with pride.

As Mauresmo entered the iconic Louvre, she handed the torch to Tony Parker, a four-time NBA champion with the San Antonio Spurs and a Basketball Hall of Fame member. The torch's journey continued with notable French Paralympic athletes such as Nantenin Keïta, a Paralympic champion in athletics, and Alexis Hanquinquant, a renowned paratriathlete.

Marie-Amélie Le Fur, a nine-time Paralympic medalist, also played a pivotal role in the relay. The torch bearers made their way through some of Paris's most famous landmarks, including a picturesque scene near the Champs-Élysées.

In a significant moment, handball legend Nikola Karabatic took the honor of carrying the torch. Karabatic is widely considered one of the most successful handball players in history. The torch was then passed to another handball star, Allison Pineau, who led the French women's team to their first gold medal in a team sport at the Tokyo 2020 Games.

The relay also saw contributions from Jean-François Lamour, an esteemed fencer, and Félicia Ballanger, a celebrated track cyclist. Notable gymnast Émilie Le Pennec and judoka David Douillet, a double Olympic champion, were among the athletes who carried the torch before it reached Clarisse Agbegnenou, the most successful French judoka on the international stage.

This grand relay concluded with a mesmerizing scene as the Olympic Cauldron was finally lit, marking the official start of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The ceremony was a testament to the enduring spirit of the Olympics and the unity it fosters among athletes and nations.

For those who want to relive this historic moment, watch the full video of the Olympic Cauldron lighting at the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony on NBC Sports' YouTube channel.