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Indian Sports: Post-Tokyo Blues Linger as Paris 2024 LoomsThe Indian sporting landscape has been grappling with a sense of disappointment following the Tokyo Olympics. The nation's medal count, which had witnessed a surge in recent years, has plateaued, leaving many questioning the progress made.At the 2020 Tokyo Games, India secured seven medals, including one gold, two silvers, and four bronzes. While this represented a significant improvement over previous Olympic performances, it fell short of the expectations raised by the country's recent sporting successes.The lack of a significant medal haul in Paris 2024 has raised concerns about the state of Indian sports. Critics argue that the post-Tokyo lull is a sign of complacency and a lack of investment in grassroots development.One area of particular concern is the absence of a clear medal contender in the upcoming Olympics. While India has traditionally excelled in shooting, wrestling, and badminton, there are no obvious favorites in these disciplines for Paris 2024.The Indian government has acknowledged the need to address these challenges. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has announced plans to increase funding for sports infrastructure and training programs. However, experts believe that more needs to be done to create a sustainable sporting ecosystem.The lack of a robust grassroots system has been identified as a major impediment to India's sporting progress. Many talented athletes from rural areas lack access to proper coaching and facilities, limiting their potential.Furthermore, the focus on a few select sports has led to the neglect of other disciplines. India has a rich sporting heritage in traditional games such as kabaddi and kho-kho, but these sports have received little attention from the government and sports federations.As Paris 2024 approaches, Indian sports administrators face a daunting task. They must address the systemic issues that have hindered the country's sporting progress and create a comprehensive plan to ensure future success.

India's Disappointing Performance at Paris Olympics 2024 Raises ConcernsIndia's performance at the recently concluded Paris Olympics 2024 has left many disappointed, including Mahindra Group founder Anand Mahindra. Despite the government's significant investment in sports infrastructure and incentives, India finished a lowly 71st in the medals tally with just six medals (five bronze and one silver). Pakistan, on the other hand, finished ahead with a single gold medal in men's javelin throw.Mahindra expressed his distress over India's poor showing, stating that he had "run out of thoughts and [was] confused" about what needed to be done to improve the country's performance. He acknowledged the efforts of the government and private sector in promoting sports, but questioned why India was still struggling to produce world-class athletes in Olympic sports.One of India's biggest medal hopes was javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, who had won gold at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. However, Chopra failed to repeat his success in Paris, finishing behind Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, who set a Games record with a 92.97m throw. Nadeem's victory marked Pakistan's first individual gold medal at the Olympics.Mahindra highlighted the need to identify and nurture young talent, providing them with the necessary support and resources to excel at the highest level. He also emphasized the importance of a strong grassroots sports culture, where children are encouraged to participate in sports from a young age.The Indian contingent had several athletes who finished fourth in their respective events, narrowly missing out on medals. This suggests that India has the potential to improve its performance, but needs to address the factors that are preventing its athletes from reaching the podium.

Neeraj Chopra, India's golden boy of javelin, narrowly missed out on the gold medal at the Paris Olympics 2024, settling for silver despite a season-best throw of 89.45m. Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem stole the show with a mammoth 92.97m throw, breaking the Olympic record and leaving Chopra in his wake.Chopra's best effort came on his second attempt, but his subsequent four throws were all fouls. Experts believe that Chopra's eagerness to surpass Nadeem's record may have contributed to his fouls."When Nadeem threw 92.97 meters, there was pressure on Neeraj," said three-time Paralympic medalist Devendra Jhajharia. "He wanted to throw over 93 meters and put in extra effort, which resulted in four fouls."Despite the setback, Chopra remains a force to be reckoned with. He won gold at the Tokyo Olympics and is determined to complete a sensational hat-trick of medals at the 2028 Los Angeles Games."Neeraj is very passionate about javelin," added Jhajharia. "He is so focused and humble. I am sure he will make a hat-trick of Olympic medals in Los Angeles."Chopra's silver medal in Paris is a testament to his resilience and determination. He will undoubtedly be a contender for gold in Los Angeles, where he will aim to cement his legacy as one of the greatest javelin throwers of all time.

Manu Bhaker's coach, Jaspal Rana, has vehemently criticized the National Rifle Association of India's (NRAI) "ever-changing" Olympic selection policy. Rana believes that the lack of consistency has hindered the progress of promising shooters and will continue to do so if not addressed.Rana, a three-time Asiad gold medalist, questioned the federation's tendency to make last-minute policy changes and its refusal to acknowledge the role of personal coaches. He cited the examples of Saurabh Chaudhary and Jitu Rai, who faded away after showing great promise."The selection policy changes every six months," Rana said. "We need a clear and consistent policy that we can stick to."Rana also expressed concern about the lack of protection for Olympic and world medalists. He noted that Bhaker, despite winning two medals in Paris, will have to fight for a place in the national squad upon her return from a break."We don't see Olympic medalists after one or two Olympics because there is no system to protect them," Rana said. "They should be allowed to compete in every trial."Rana emphasized the importance of collaboration between personal and national coaches. He believes that one person should take the lead, but there should be mutual understanding.Bhaker thanked Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha for ensuring that Rana could assist her in Paris. She said that Usha's support was crucial in her success.Rana's criticism highlights the need for a stable and transparent selection policy that supports the development of shooters and ensures their long-term success.

Vivianne Robinson, a dedicated Olympics enthusiast from Venice Beach, Florida, is making her sixth Olympic appearance in Paris 2024. Her passion for the Games has led her to travel to various venues, collect commemorative pins, and become a sought-after fan for photographs.In Rio 2016, Robinson's presence was ubiquitous, with fans eager to capture a moment with her. She had planned to attend the Tokyo Olympics but was thwarted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Undeterred, she has returned to Paris with a wardrobe tailored specifically for the occasion, including a white outfit adorned with the Paris 2024 mascot and a matching hat.Despite the dispersed venues in Paris, Robinson's enthusiasm remains undiminished. She has become a favorite of news crews, with her interviews trending on social media. Her unwavering support for the Games has led her to spend over $10,000, maxing out her credit cards and working multiple jobs to fund her trip."This Olympics is the most I have spent on any Olympics," Robinson said. "I have bought tickets to 38 events... but I am having a good time watching the games. I was determined to see the Olympics in Paris."Robinson's passion for the Olympics extends beyond the spectacle of the Games. She carries her collection of pins from previous Olympics, symbolizing her unity with the Olympic spirit. In Paris, she has embraced the role of a super fan, cheering on athletes and immersing herself in the atmosphere of the city she loves.

Celebrated Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat received a rousing welcome upon her return to India after her controversial disqualification at the Paris Olympics. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, expressing their solidarity with Phogat, who was disqualified for being overweight after reaching the 50kg final.The outpouring of support continued during a roadshow from Delhi to Phogat's native village of Balali. Along the 135km journey, she was felicitated by supporters and 'khap' panchayats in several villages, extending the trip to nearly 13 hours.In Balali, Phogat was greeted with a gold medal by community elders, a testament to the pride and admiration she has brought to her village. Despite the late hour, a massive crowd attended the felicitation ceremony.Overwhelmed by the reception, Phogat expressed her gratitude and her desire to train women wrestlers from Balali to achieve even greater success than herself. She emphasized the importance of support and encouragement for aspiring female wrestlers.Phogat's disqualification had sparked outrage in India and the wrestling world. Her appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) was rejected, but her determination and resilience have inspired many.Upon reaching her village, Phogat addressed the gathering, expressing her hope that someone from Balali would surpass her achievements. She urged the community to support women wrestlers and provide them with the necessary resources to excel.Phogat's journey has been marked by both triumph and adversity. She is a two-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist, Asian Games champion, and has won eight Asian Championships medals. Her disqualification at the Olympics was a setback, but it has not diminished her spirit or her commitment to the sport.Phogat's return to India has been a celebration of her achievements and a reminder of the power of resilience and determination. Her story continues to inspire aspiring wrestlers and serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Indian athletes.

India has announced its largest-ever contingent of 84 athletes to compete at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, scheduled from August 28 to September 8. This marks a significant increase from the 54 athletes sent to the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, including 14 women. Notably, India will participate in three new sports at Paris 2024: para-cycling, para-rowing, and blind judo, bringing the total number of sports to 12.Arshad Shaik and Jyoti Gaderiya will represent India in para-cycling, while Kapil Parmar and Kokila will compete in blind judo. Anita and K. Narayana will participate in para-rowing.India's most successful Paralympic Games was Tokyo 2020, where the country won 19 medals, including five gold, eight silver, and six bronze. Avani Lekhara, who won gold in the women's R2 10m air rifle standing SH1 event, will return to compete in Paris 2024. Sumit Antil, the gold medalist in men's F64 javelin throw, will also participate.Table tennis player Bhavina Patel, who won India's first Paralympics medal in the sport, will compete in the women's singles and doubles events. Harvinder Singh, the first Indian to win an archery medal at the Paralympics, will appear in individual and mixed team recurve events.

Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan's Olympic javelin throw gold medalist, has called for the government to invest in modern facilities for women athletes. Nadeem, who returned home to a hero's welcome after winning Pakistan's first Olympic gold since 1984, has received numerous cash prizes, cars, and other gifts. However, he believes that the government should prioritize the development of sports infrastructure and education for women."We badly need facilities for our women and even men to acquire higher education in our area," Nadeem said on ARY News. "Nowadays, young athletes need to be given the best facilities."Nadeem, who appeared on the show with his wife Rashida, also spoke about the buffalo gifted to him by his father-in-law for winning the Olympic gold medal. "I was a bit surprised with the announcement," he said with a smile. "My father-in-law is a very rich person and has a lot of land. If only he had given me 4-5 acres of farm land instead of the buffalo."Rashida revealed that she knew about Nadeem's injury problems before the Olympics but kept it away from other family members. "When he went for the Games, I couldn't sleep for three days," she said. "I just kept on praying that he would remain fit and return with a gold medal."Nadeem's long-time coach, Salman Butt, said the ace javelin thrower will return to training in a month's time. "Arshad knows that he has to work harder to maintain his position," Butt said. "There is great competition in the javelin throw in the international field."Nadeem's victory has sparked a renewed interest in sports in Pakistan. He hopes that his success will inspire other young athletes, especially women, to pursue their dreams. "I want to see more women from Pakistan competing at the highest level," he said. "We have the talent, but we need the facilities and support to succeed."

Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Olympics 2024 50kg wrestling final due to being overweight has sparked controversy, with blame being directed towards her support staff. Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Sanjay Singh questioned the presence of Vinesh's personal coach and support staff in Paris, suggesting they were not fulfilling their responsibilities.However, Vinesh has defended her support staff, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support. In a statement, she thanked her coach Woller Akos, physiotherapist Ashwini Jeevan Patil, and others for their contributions to her journey.Vinesh praised Akos for his exceptional coaching skills, calmness, and ability to handle any situation. She credited him with guiding her through difficult times and instilling confidence in her. Despite his humility, Vinesh emphasized Akos's significant role in her success.She also expressed appreciation for Patil's dedication and care. Vinesh highlighted Patil's unwavering support throughout her training and rehabilitation, describing her as a physiotherapist who truly understood the challenges of wrestling.Vinesh's statement comes amidst criticism of her support staff for failing to manage her weight. However, she has chosen to focus on their positive contributions and the sacrifices they have made for her.