And We’re Off

A ratings bonanza, an epic movie set and a quintessentially British spectacle. News media from around the world called the opening ceremony of the London Olympic Games all of those things and more.

At one point during the ceremony, an actor portraying the queen of England parachuted into the stadium. (Photos AP, AFP)

And We’re Off!

It’s a European tournament, but it has a global following. Despite the involvement of teams from just one continent, UEFA’s European Championships rival the World Cup in overall match value. This year’s edition, hosted by Poland and Ukraine, kicked off on Friday, with the title match set to be played on July 1. (Photos Reuters, AP, AFP, EPA)