India's contingent for the 2024 Paris Olympics boasts a diverse mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers. With 117 athletes across 16 disciplines, India aims to make a significant impact on the global stage.
Among the notable names are Rohan Bopanna (tennis), Sharath Kamal (table tennis), and PV Sindhu (badminton), all of whom have multiple Olympic appearances under their belt. Five of the seven medal winners from Tokyo 2020 are also part of the contingent.
However, over half of the Indian athletes will be experiencing the Olympics for the first time. One such debutant is 14-year-old swimmer Dhinidhi Desinghu, the youngest Indian in the contingent. Desinghu, who was awarded the Universality quota, will compete in the women's 200m freestyle event alongside her idol, Katie Ledecky.
Despite her young age, Desinghu has already made a mark in international competitions, participating in the 2022 Asian Games and the 2024 World Aquatics Championships.
In boxing, Nikhat Zareen, the reigning world champion in the 50kg weight category, is poised to emerge from Mary Kom's shadow and become a potential face of Indian boxing.
Wrestling also features promising young talents, including Antim Panghal and Reetika. Panghal, a two-time junior world champion, has already won a bronze medal at the senior World Wrestling Championships. Reetika, the first Indian woman to qualify in the women's 76kg weight class, is looking to emulate Sakshi Malik's medal-winning performance at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Seasoned stars like Kishore Kumar Jena (javelin throw), Jyothi Yarraji (hurdles), and Parul Chaudhary (steeplechase) are also making their Olympic debuts and have the potential to surprise.
In badminton, Lakshya Sen, a former world championship bronze medalist, will be vying for a medal in men's singles alongside HS Prannoy.
India's contingent is a testament to the country's growing sporting prowess and the dedication of its athletes. With a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, India is poised to make a strong showing at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Tags: #Paris2024, #TeamIndia, #Olympics, #DhinidhiDesinghu, #NikhatZareen
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