Celine Dion, who last had a stage performance in 2020, after thrilling audience at this year’s Olympics, said she was happy to be celebrating the athletes
By Kehinde Okeowo
Ace Canadian singer, Celine Dion has expressed her delight after performing for the first time in four years at the 2024 Olympic Games opening ceremony in Paris, France, on Friday.
The Grammy-winning artiste performed ‘Hymne à l’amour’ by the French singer, Édith Piaf from the base of the Eiffel Tower in what ended up as an instantly iconic moment.
This is the 56-year-old’s second performance at the Olympics, the first being her appearance at the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games.
Dion, who has not performed publicly since 2020 due to her battle with stiff-person’s syndrome, after her brave performance on Friday night, said she was happy to be celebrating the athletes at this year’s Olympics.
She went on to admire their stories of sacrifice and determination, pain and perseverance.
ALSO READ: Four reasons BBNaija S9 is a must watch for fans of the TV show
She further urged them to continue to focus on their dreams, whether or not they take home medals at the event.
Speaking via a statement she released after her iconic performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Dion said, “I’m honored to have performed tonight, for the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony, and so full of joy to be back in one of my very favorite cities!”
She added, “Most of all, I’m so happy to be celebrating these amazing athletes, with all their stories of sacrifice and determination, pain and perseverance.
“All of you have been so focused on your dream, and whether or not you take home a medal, I hope that being here means that it has come true for you!
“You should all be so proud, we know how hard you have worked to be the best of the best. Stay focused, keep going, my heart is with you!”
