Spectators react to 2024 Olympics opening ceremony: Video

The opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, initially criticized for its ambitious nature and choice of location, proved to be a success despite several challenges.

France had opted for a dramatic opening on the River Seine instead of the traditional stadium setting, a bold and reflective choice of President Emmanuel Macron’s theatrical style.

The day started with three attacks on France's railway infrastructure that threatened to disrupt travel and hinted at potential attempts to undermine the Games. Heavy rains also drenched both performers and spectators, who had to make do with plastic ponchos.

Despite these difficulties, the ceremony, which lasted a remarkable four hours, concluded on a high note. The event peaked with the Olympic flame ascending into the sky attached to a balloon, while Celine Dion performed an Edith Piaf song from the Eiffel Tower.

"The ceremony was great, the rhythm was great, but I'm really disappointed about the rain because, in terms of organisation, they gave it their all," a spectator said.