Olympic Games open in Paris

Paris (dpa) – The opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Paris on Friday was a colourful show featuring fireworks, a laser show and spectacular images set against the landmarks of Paris. Prior to this, some 6,800 athletes took part in a boat parade on the Seine – with the whole world watching. Basketball star Dennis Schröder and judo world champion Anna-Maria Wagner waved the flag on the German boat. 

His appearance as German flag-bearer gives Schröder a boost for his Olympic medal mission. “It was absolutely incredible. What a feeling – to have so many people watching you!” said the 30-year-old after the opening ceremony. He said he’d seen a lot of German flags and the fans had shown a lot of affection – and now it was “go time”. The German basketball team is due to face Japan in their first group game on Saturday.