Beijing, China, February 20, 2022: The President of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas Bach, declared the 24th Olympic Winter Games closed at an emotional closing ceremony at the Bird’s Nest National Stadium in Beijing on Sunday night.
Describing them as an “unforgettable experience” and “truly exceptional” Winter Olympics, the IOC President welcomed China to the world as a winter sports country after their record-breaking performance on ice and snow and in organising the Games.
The closing ceremony, which was attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, was as serene and stylish as the opening ceremony on February 4, with children’s choirs providing the perfect message of hope and unity for the future.
President Bach praised the athletes for their “outstanding performances” and also for demonstrating the Olympic spirit with their fellow athletes.
“Each and every one of you strived to achieve your personal best. We were deeply touched how you were wishing and cheering for your competitors to achieve their best as well,” he said.
“You not only respected each other. You supported each other. You embraced each other, even if your countries are divided by conflict.
“You overcame these divisions, demonstrating that in this Olympic community we are all equal - regardless of what we look like, where we come from, or what we believe in.
“This unifying power of the Olympic Games is stronger than the forces that want to divide us: you give peace a chance. May the political leaders around the world be inspired by your example of solidarity and peace.”
The IOC President took the opportunity to call on the international community to give equal access to vaccines for everybody around the world.
In praising the Games, President Bach added: “The Olympic Villages were outstanding. The venues - magnificent. The organisation - extraordinary. The support of the National Olympic Committees, the International Federations, our TOP Partner and Rights-Holding Broadcasters - unwavering.”
He further endeared himself to the Chinese people by thanking them in Mandarin and describing them as “pangyau” – friends.
The Mayor of Beijing passed the Olympic flag to President Bach who, in turn, handed it to the Mayors of Milano and Cortina – hosts of the next Winter Olympics in Italy in 2026.
*Norway finished on top of the medal rankings with 16 gold medals, eight silver and 13 bronze medals for a total of 37. Germany was second with 12 gold medals, 10 silver and five bronze for 27. China was third with 9-4-2, ahead of the United States, Sweden and Netherlands who all had eight gold.
*Japan was ranked 12th with three gold, six silver and nine bronze, and Korea was 14th (2-5-2).
*29 of the 91 NOCs won at least one medal, with 23 of them taking home gold.
Photo: www.Olympics.com