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Sukhjeet Singh's journey to the Olympic stage has been a testament to resilience and unwavering determination. Six years ago, a debilitating back injury left his right leg temporarily paralyzed, threatening to extinguish his hockey dreams. However, with the unwavering support of his family, especially his father, Sukhjeet refused to succumb to despair.Through grueling rehabilitation and sheer willpower, Sukhjeet regained his mobility and returned to the hockey field with renewed vigor. His talent and dedication caught the attention of the Indian selectors, and in 2022, he made his debut for the national team.Despite being a newcomer to the senior squad, Sukhjeet has quickly established himself as a valuable asset. His speed, agility, and goal-scoring prowess have made him a formidable force on the forward line. In the past two years, he has scored 20 goals in 70 matches for India, including three crucial goals at the 2023 FIH Hockey World Cup.Sukhjeet's contributions have extended beyond the World Cup. He played a pivotal role in India's gold medal victories at the Asian Champions Trophy and the Hangzhou Asian Games last year. His recent performances in the FIH Hockey Pro League, where he netted five goals, further solidified his status as a rising star.As the Paris Olympics draw near, Sukhjeet is laser-focused on delivering his best performance. He is determined to repay the trust of his coach and teammates by contributing to the team's success. His journey from adversity to the Olympic stage is an inspiration to all who dare to dream big and never give up on their aspirations.

India's Olympic Journey: A History of Near MissesIndia's Olympic history is marked by a series of tantalizingly close finishes, where athletes have come within a hair's breadth of the podium but ultimately fallen short. These near misses have left an enduring legacy of both agony and inspiration.1956 Melbourne: FootballThe Indian football team made a remarkable run to the semifinals, defeating hosts Australia in the quarterfinals. However, they were unable to overcome Yugoslavia in the semifinals and lost the bronze medal match to Bulgaria.1960 Rome: AthleticsLegendary sprinter Milkha Singh narrowly missed out on a bronze medal in the 400m final. He slowed down to glance at his competitors, costing him a mere 1/10th of a second. This heartbreaking loss haunted him for the rest of his life.1980 Moscow: Women's HockeyWith top hockey nations boycotting the Moscow Games, India's women's hockey team had a golden opportunity to medal. However, they narrowly missed out, losing their final match to the USSR and finishing fourth.1984 Los Angeles: AthleticsPT Usha, known as the "Payyoli Express," came within 1/100th of a second of winning a bronze medal in the 400m hurdles. This was the closest an Indian athlete had ever come to a medal in any competition.2004 Athens: TennisLeander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi, India's celebrated doubles pair, missed out on a bronze medal after losing a marathon match to Croatia. They had also lost in the semifinals to Germany.2012 London: ShootingShooter Joydeep Karmakar finished just 1.9 points behind the bronze medal winner in the men's 50m rifle prone event.2016 Rio de Janeiro: GymnasticsDipa Karmakar became the first Indian woman gymnast to compete at the Games. She finished fourth in the women's vault event, missing the bronze medal by 0.150 points.2020 Tokyo: Women's HockeyThe Indian women's hockey team once again came close to a medal, but lost to Great Britain in the bronze medal match.2020 Tokyo: GolfAditi Ashok, ranked 200th in the world, came agonizingly close to a podium finish in golf. She ultimately finished fourth.These near misses have left a bittersweet legacy for Indian sports. They have shown the potential of Indian athletes to compete at the highest level, but they have also highlighted the challenges and heartbreak that can come with falling just short of the ultimate prize.

Anjum Moudgil, a seasoned rifle shooter, is preparing for the Paris Olympics with a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective. Despite the Tokyo Games' shooting setbacks, she remains optimistic and eager to share her lessons with the younger generation of shooters.Moudgil, a 2018 World Championships silver medalist, acknowledges the valuable insights she gains from her younger counterparts, such as Asian Games gold medalist Sift Kaur Samra. She admires their confidence and determination, which inspire her to push her limits and improve daily.In contrast to the extended camps prior to Tokyo, Moudgil has opted for solo training for Paris, seeking guidance from coaches only when necessary. This approach allows her to focus on the finer details and avoid distractions.Moudgil's journey has not been without its challenges. After a successful 2022, where she won World Cup medals and became world No. 1 in women's 50m 3P, she experienced a dip in form. She struggled with imposter syndrome, questioning her abilities despite her achievements.Through mental training and self-reflection, Moudgil overcame her doubts. She realized the importance of self-belief and the need to persevere through setbacks. Her solo training in Budapest has further boosted her confidence, allowing her to explore new techniques and enjoy the city's ambiance.Moudgil's journey from Tokyo to Paris has been marked by setbacks, self-doubt, and resilience. She has emerged stronger from each experience, gaining invaluable lessons that she is eager to share with the next generation of shooters.

The 2024 Paris Olympics, set to commence on July 26, mark a significant milestone in the history of the Games. As the second city to host the Olympics thrice, Paris will showcase a grand spectacle that has evolved dramatically since its previous hosting in 1924.Schedule and Program:The 1924 Olympics spanned nearly three months, featuring 17 sports and 126 medal events. In contrast, the 2024 Games will condense the schedule into two weeks, offering a staggering 32 sports and 329 medal events. While many sports have endured the test of time, the 2024 program introduces new additions such as skateboarding, surfing, and sport climbing.Women's Participation:A notable change since 1924 is the increased participation of women. In 1924, women were largely absent from the Games, with only 135 female athletes competing. The 2024 Olympics will feature a more equitable representation, with women expected to make up a significant portion of the 10,500 athletes.Olympic Village:The 1924 Games introduced the concept of an Olympic Village, providing a centralized accommodation for athletes. The 2024 Village, located near the Saint-Denis stadium, will accommodate over 10,000 competitors, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.Participation and Representation:The 1924 Olympics welcomed 3,089 athletes from 44 countries. The 2024 Games are expected to attract over 10,500 athletes representing more than 200 countries, reflecting the global reach and inclusivity of the modern Olympics.Legacy and Evolution:The 2024 Paris Olympics will not only celebrate the centenary of the 1924 Games but also showcase the remarkable evolution of the event. From the extended schedule and expanded program to the increased participation of women and the modern Olympic Village, the Games have adapted to the changing times while preserving their core values of sportsmanship, excellence, and global unity.

Indian rifle shooter Sift Kaur Samra is approaching her Olympic debut with a calm and collected mindset, treating it as just another international competition. Despite the magnitude of the event, Samra remains focused on her technique and the familiar routine she has developed in previous tournaments."It's the same; it's just a normal World Cup for us, and we always give our best in the World Cup," Samra told IANS. "This is another tournament where we will give our best. Yes, because it (Olympics) comes every four years, it is much bigger than the other World Cups. But I feel like it's the same people we had in the last World Cup, so it's going to be the same."Samra, who holds the Asian Games gold medal and a World Record of 469.6, emphasizes the importance of consistency and following the same principles that have brought her success in the past. "I just have to do the same things I did in my previous tournaments and training sessions. It's just the name that changes, not the people or the technique," she added.When asked about her preparation for the Paris Olympics, Samra highlighted the importance of following a structured training schedule. "It's the same it's like when we had a camp and the schedule given to us so we just followed that," she said.Samra is part of a 21-member Indian shooting team that will compete in the Paris Games. While only two rifle shooters on the team have prior Olympic experience, Samra has sought advice from veterans in other sports, including Saina Nehwal, Mary Kom, and Sania Mirza."One of them was reaching here is not an easy job but I have done that so 'you have to be confident you have to believe in yourself and you will be doing the best'. Another one is, 'you should have that fire to do your best and get something from Paris'," she said.In terms of her individual performance, Samra aims to improve upon her previous scores. "I just want that it should not be the same as in the last tournament which I have shot, it should be like one more. I will try to shoot one more point. If it was like 593 so then I will shoot 594 if it's my day. So, let's see, let's check out yeah but this one gonna be my target."

Jyothi Yarraji, India's first-ever Olympic 100m hurdler, is determined to overcome adversity and make her mark in Paris. Her journey has been marked by her mother's unwavering support and a positive mindset that has helped her navigate challenges.Yarraji's mother, Kumari, worked tirelessly as a domestic help and hospital cleaner to provide for her family. Despite their struggles, Kumari instilled in her daughter the importance of perseverance and positivity. "My mom always told me to just keep going forward because we can't stop the present, past, and the future," Yarraji said.Yarraji's positive mindset has been crucial in her athletic career. She has faced numerous injuries and setbacks, but she has always managed to bounce back stronger. "I got a lot of injuries, lots of hurdle hits, lots of falling down. I got minus but I try to turn it to plus," she said.Yarraji's coach, James Hillier, believes she is in the best shape of her life. "She is in the best shape I have ever seen, physically and mentally. She can run significantly faster than her best timing," Hillier said.Yarraji is aware of the pressure she will face at the Olympics, but she is determined to remain calm and focused. "I don't have experience of (competing in the) Olympics but I am confident that it will go well," she said. "I am now focusing more on recovery and meditation so that I remain calm and focused."Yarraji's journey is an inspiration to all who face adversity. Her determination, resilience, and positive mindset are a testament to the power of the human spirit.

Simone Biles, the legendary gymnast, is set to make a triumphant return to the Olympic stage in Paris 2024. After withdrawing from several events in Tokyo due to twisties, a temporary loss of spatial awareness, Biles has proven her resilience and determination by securing her third consecutive Olympic appearance with an all-around win at the US trials.Biles' journey to greatness began at the tender age of six in Ohio. Her exceptional talent was evident from the start, and at just 16, she claimed two gold medals at the Antwerp Championship, including the coveted all-around title. She also unveiled her groundbreaking double layout with a half twist on the floor exercise, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.In 2014 and 2015, Biles dominated the World Championships, amassing four gold medals each year. Her Olympic debut in Rio 2016 was a resounding success, as she captured gold in the all-around, team, vault, and floor exercises, along with a bronze on the balance beam.Despite the challenges she faced in Tokyo, Biles has emerged stronger than ever. In 2023, she extended her tally of world and Olympic medals to an astonishing 37, including six world all-around titles. Her unwavering determination and mental fortitude have made her an inspiration to athletes and fans alike.Biles' coach, Cecile Landi, has witnessed her exceptional talent firsthand. "We always knew she could be better," Landi said. "She's the most talented athlete I've ever worked with. If she could master her mental game as well as her physical game, she would be close to unstoppable."Responding to critics who questioned her commitment after Tokyo, Biles displayed her characteristic resilience. "They'll still say, 'Oh my gosh, you're going to quit again?'" she said. "But I've already dealt with it for three years. They want to see us fail, but they'll miss us when we're gone."Biles' performance at the Olympic trials was a testament to her unwavering spirit. "Nobody's forcing me to do it," she said. "I choose to grind in the gym and perform for myself. Just to remind myself that I can still do it."As the oldest woman gymnast to represent the US since Marie Hoesly in 1952, Biles will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with in Paris. Her return to the Olympic stage is a testament to her indomitable spirit and her unwavering pursuit of greatness.

Palestinian Athletes Embody Resistance Amidst Gaza ConflictAs the Paris Olympics approach, eight Palestinian athletes will carry the weight of their nation's struggle on their shoulders. Their participation symbolizes the resilience and determination of a people facing adversity.The athletes' journey to Paris has been marked by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Since October 2022, Hamas attacks on Israel have escalated tensions, resulting in the deaths of thousands of civilians. The conflict has also devastated Gaza's infrastructure, including hospitals, making it difficult for athletes to train and receive proper medical care.Despite these challenges, the Palestinian athletes have persevered. They have trained tirelessly, determined to represent their country with honor. Their participation in the Olympics is not only a sporting event but also a political statement."You are not just athletes, you are also ... symbols of Palestinian resistance," said Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Palestinian authority minister of state for foreign affairs.The athletes' presence in Paris will serve as a reminder of the ongoing suffering in Gaza. They will use their platform to highlight the human toll of the conflict and advocate for peace."Through this participation, we want to present the suffering of the Palestinian people and the unprecedented killing taking place in Gaza," said Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestinian Olympic committee.The athletes' journey to Paris has been fraught with obstacles. Majed Abu Marahil, a long-distance runner who competed in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, died in June due to kidney failure. Gaza's hospitals, overwhelmed by the conflict, were unable to provide him with adequate treatment.Despite these setbacks, the Palestinian athletes remain undeterred. They are determined to compete with pride and represent their country with dignity."Getting athletes to Paris is already a victory," said Rajoub.The eight athletes will compete in various disciplines, including athletics, swimming, archery, taekwondo, judo, and boxing. One athlete qualified through regular channels, while the others received special invitations.Among them is Valerie Tarazi, a 24-year-old swimmer with US and Palestinian nationality. Tarazi has won titles at the Arab Games and is determined to use her platform to raise awareness about the situation in Gaza."My heart aches for them," she said of the Gaza people. "Being in Paris on behalf of Palestine is a very important thing."The Palestinian athletes' participation in the Paris Olympics is a testament to their resilience and determination. They will carry the hopes and dreams of their nation on their shoulders, inspiring the world with their courage and unwavering spirit.

Nishant Dev, a rising star in Indian boxing, is poised to make history at the upcoming Paris Olympics. With his unwavering confidence and rigorous training regimen, he aims to become the first Indian male boxer to win an Olympic gold medal.Dev's inspiration lies in the legendary Floyd Mayweather Jr., known for his undefeated record and impeccable defense. While Dev may not engage in trash-talking, he instills fear in his opponents with his unwavering belief in his abilities. "I know I am the best in the world. I don't fear anyone," he declares.In preparation for the Olympics, Dev has spent weeks at a training camp in Saarbrucken, Germany. The camp provides him with world-class sparring partners and excellent facilities. He has sparred with boxers from the US, Denmark, and Ireland, honing his skills and gaining valuable experience.Dev's training regimen is intense, with 90-minute sessions in the morning and three-hour sessions in the evening. He focuses on endurance, strength, and technique, leaving no stone unturned in his pursuit of Olympic glory.Despite the formidable competition in the 71kg division, Dev remains undeterred. He has faced and defeated many of his potential opponents, studying their weaknesses and developing strategies to exploit them.To maintain his weight and muscle content, Dev follows a strict low-fat, low-calorie diet. He has sacrificed his favorite foods, such as aloo ke paranthe and rajma-chawal, in the pursuit of his Olympic dream.Dev's post-Olympic plans include indulging in his favorite foods and exploring the world. However, his ultimate goal remains the Olympic gold medal. "It's been over three months since I had my favorite food. All my life, all I have done is box. It will all be worth it when I win that Olympic gold," he says.