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The Paris Olympics triathlon finally commenced on Wednesday, bringing relief to organizers after concerns over pollution levels in the River Seine. France's Cassandre Beaugrand and Britain's Alex Yee emerged victorious in the women's and men's events, respectively.Beaugrand, a Parisian native, emerged from the pack in the final lap of the running stage to claim gold. Despite the threat of cancellation, she remained confident in the water quality. "It would have been shameful for our sport... it would have been a disgrace," she stated.In the men's triathlon, Yee surged past New Zealand's Hayden Wilde in a dramatic finish, improving on his silver medal from Tokyo.Meanwhile, in table tennis, China's world number one Wang Chuqin suffered a shock defeat to Sweden's Truls Moregard. Wang had previously won mixed doubles gold but expressed anger after his bat was accidentally broken by a photographer.China continued their dominance in diving, winning the women's synchronized 10m platform ahead of North Korea and Britain. They have now secured all three gold medals in the sport so far.In swimming, French sensation Leon Marchand aims for two more gold medals in the 200m butterfly and 200m breaststroke finals. American great Katie Ledecky seeks to defend her 1500m freestyle title, while Chinese world record-holder Pan Zhanle is favored in the men's 100m freestyle final.In men's basketball, Team USA, led by LeBron James and Kevin Durant, faces South Sudan in their quest for a quarterfinal berth.Japanese gymnast Daiki Hashimoto aims to retain his all-around gold, while Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz continue their pursuit of Olympic tennis glory.In women's football, defending champions Canada must defeat Colombia to advance to the quarterfinals following a six-point deduction due to a spying scandal.Despite the triathlon's successful start, surfing events in Tahiti were delayed due to unfavorable winds.

Formula One team Alpine has appointed Oliver Oakes as their new principal, replacing Bruno Famin. The 36-year-old Englishman, a former driver currently leading the Hitech GP team in F2 and F3, becomes the second youngest team principal in Formula One history.Oakes will assume his new role after the summer break, reporting to Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to guide Alpine "back to competitiveness.""The team has talented individuals and exceptional resources at its core," Oakes stated. "I am confident that we can achieve significant success together in the remaining season and beyond."Famin announced his departure from Alpine at the Belgian Grand Prix, but will continue to oversee other motorsport activities for the Renault Group.Oakes's immediate priority will be to improve Alpine's performance. The team currently ranks eighth in the constructors' standings, a significant decline from their fourth-place finish in 2022.This leadership change follows a series of adjustments since Italian Flavio Briatore joined Alpine as an advisor in June. Driver Esteban Ocon has announced his departure to Haas, citing a "frustrating" season with insufficient progress.Renault is also considering discontinuing engine production for its F1 team. Alpine is reportedly close to securing a deal with Mercedes for 2026, which currently supplies engines to Williams, McLaren, Aston Martin, and its own team.The Formula One season resumes with the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort on August 25.

Ilona Maher, a rising star in the world of women's rugby, has become a social media sensation and an advocate for body positivity. Her infectious enthusiasm and down-to-earth nature have captivated fans both on and off the field.Maher's breakout moment came during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she showcased her off-field personality through engaging and humorous social media videos. Her behind-the-scenes glimpses into life in the Olympic Village resonated with fans, making her a beloved figure."People are always like, 'You're so unapologetically yourself,'" Maher told Olympics.com. "And I'm like, 'What is everybody else doing out here?' I don't even try to be that. It's just how I am."Beyond her social media presence, Maher is also known for her signature red lipstick, which she wears to every game as a statement of empowerment."It doesn't take away from your athletic ability if you wear makeup," she said in an interview with CBS. "If you want to put on a full face of makeup to go tackle people, good on you if you're doing it."Maher's advocacy for women's sports and body positivity has extended beyond her own platform. She has collaborated with brands like Nike and Lululemon to promote inclusivity and inspire young athletes.Her impact has also been recognized by other sports stars. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, American football star Jason Kelce wore a shirt adorned with Maher's face at the gymnastics team championship. The two also had a friendly hand wrestling game that Maher documented on social media.Ilona Maher's journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and self-expression. She has used her platform to challenge stereotypes, empower women, and inspire others to embrace their true selves.

Manu Bhaker, India's shooting prodigy, has etched her name in history by becoming the first athlete from independent India to win two medals in a single Olympics. At just 22 years old, she has already achieved remarkable success, but remains humble and determined as she prepares for her final event at the Games.Bhaker's journey to Olympic glory began with a bronze medal in the women's 10m air pistol event. She then teamed up with Sarabjot Singh to secure another bronze in the mixed 10m air pistol event. These medals are a testament to her exceptional talent and unwavering focus.Despite her historic achievements, Bhaker remains grounded and understands the pressure that comes with being an elite athlete. She expressed her gratitude for the support she has received but also acknowledged the fear of disappointing her fans. "I hope the love stays. I will definitely try my best. I hope people are not disappointed. Please don't be angry if I don't win another medal," she said.Bhaker's success is particularly poignant given her disappointing performance at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where a pistol malfunction prevented her from achieving her Olympic dream. The heartbreak she experienced has made her appreciate her medals even more. "After the experience in Tokyo, I realize how special winning this (medal) is," she said.Bhaker's performance has drawn comparisons to former 10m air rifle shooter Abhinav Bindra, who became a household name after winning gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. However, Bhaker remains focused on her own journey and is determined to continue working hard for more glory. "I can't say that about myself (becoming a female sporting icon); if people call me that then I am grateful. But my journey will continue and there's no stopping for me, I will keep working hard even if I win or lose," she said.Bhaker looks up to ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and shuttler PV Sindhu as role models. "I've always looked up to athletes like Neeraj (Chopra) (PV) Sindhu, who have always been able to prove themselves at certain levels," she said.As Bhaker prepares for her final event in the 25m sports pistol, she remains confident and determined. Her journey is an inspiration to young athletes across India, proving that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

American swimmer Ryan Murphy experienced an unforgettable moment at the Paris 2024 Olympics when his pregnant wife, Bridget Konttinen, surprised him with a gender reveal after he won bronze in the men's 100m backstroke.Murphy's bronze medal marked his seventh Olympic medal overall, solidifying his status as one of the most decorated Olympic athletes of all time. He is a four-time Olympic gold medalist and the former world-record holder in the men's 100-meter backstroke.As Murphy stood on the podium, his wife, who was present in the stands, held up a handwritten sign that read, "Ryan it's a girl!" The heartwarming moment was captured on camera and shared widely on social media.Murphy's bronze medal was a testament to his unwavering determination and resilience. He is currently attempting a once-in-a-lifetime feat of becoming the first male swimmer to medal in both the 100m and 200m backstroke events in three consecutive Olympics.The gender reveal was an unexpected and joyous addition to Murphy's Olympic experience. It served as a reminder that even in the midst of intense competition, life's most precious moments can bring immeasurable happiness.Murphy's victory and the subsequent gender reveal were met with widespread praise and congratulations from fellow athletes, fans, and the swimming community. The moment was hailed as a testament to the power of sports to create unforgettable memories and inspire others.

Suni Lee's Olympic journey has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and challenges. After winning the all-around gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games, she faced intense scrutiny and online harassment. Amidst this, she was diagnosed with two incurable kidney diseases in 2023, forcing her to withdraw from college and halt her gymnastics training.The diagnosis was a devastating blow to Lee, who feared her gymnastics career was over. However, with the support of her family and coaches, she returned to the gym in early 2024. Despite the lingering effects of her kidney disease, Lee persevered, determined to prove herself once again.On Tuesday, Lee made a triumphant comeback at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Competing in three rotations, she helped Team USA secure the gold medal. Her performance was a testament to her resilience and unwavering spirit.Lee's journey is an inspiration to anyone facing adversity. She has shown that with determination and support, it is possible to overcome challenges and achieve one's dreams. Her story is a reminder that even in the face of setbacks, hope and perseverance can prevail.

Manu Bhaker's recent Olympic success has reignited the debate surrounding Norman Pritchard, the first Indian athlete to win an Olympic medal. While Bhaker has become the second Indian to achieve this feat in a single edition, Pritchard's nationality remains a subject of controversy.Born in Kolkata in 1875, Pritchard dominated the Bengal sprinting scene for seven years, setting records and winning multiple titles. He represented India at the 1900 Paris Olympics, becoming the first Indian to compete and win an Olympic medal. However, his British heritage has led some historians to question his Indian nationality.British historians argue that Pritchard's birth into a colonial family and his participation in the 1900 AAA Championships as a member of the London AC indicate his British identity. The New York Times also referred to him as an "Englishman."On the other hand, Indian historians point to Pritchard's birth in India, his representation of India at the Olympics, and his contributions to Indian sports administration as evidence of his Indian nationality. The Field magazine referred to him as an "Indian champion," and the IOC credits India with his nationality.The controversy stems from the fact that India and Great Britain did not have registered National Olympic Committees at the time of the 1900 Olympics. This has made it difficult to definitively determine Pritchard's nationality.Despite the ongoing debate, Pritchard's achievements remain significant. He was a pioneer for Indian sports, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations. His legacy serves as a reminder of the complex and often contested nature of national identity in the world of sports.

Simone Biles, the legendary gymnast, led the United States to a resounding victory in the women's gymnastics team final at the Paris Olympics, exorcising the demons of Tokyo and claiming her fifth career Olympic gold medal.Three years after a mental block derailed her performance in Tokyo, Biles and her teammates Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey, and Sunisa Lee dominated the competition from start to finish, reclaiming gold ahead of Italy and Brazil.Biles electrified the crowd with a gravity-defying floor routine that showcased her signature skills, including a double back flip with a half twist and the "triple-double" of two back flips with three twists. The United States posted the highest score on all four apparatus, amassing a total of 171.296 points and a commanding 5.802-point margin over Italy.For Biles, this victory marked a triumphant return to the Olympic summit after a two-year hiatus during which she prioritized her mental health. Lee, the reigning all-around champion, has since overcome two career-threatening kidney ailments."Simone was glad it was over for today," said coach Cecile Landi. "The whole team hasn't been easy, it's had its ups and downs, so to make it happen was just a relief."Biles now holds the record for the most Olympic medals in gymnastics history, with eight. Her performance was witnessed by a star-studded audience that included Serena Williams, Nicole Kidman, and Bill Gates.The United States' victory was especially poignant for the quartet of gymnasts who had also competed in Tokyo. It was a testament to their resilience and determination to overcome adversity.

Abhishek, a rising star in the Indian men's hockey team, has emerged as a crucial player in the team's pursuit of Olympic glory. His journey to the national squad has been a testament to his unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of excellence.Growing up in Sonepat, Abhishek's passion for hockey ignited at a young age. He spent countless hours honing his skills on grass before joining the National Hockey Academy in Delhi. Despite being overlooked for the junior India team, he remained steadfast in his resolve.Abhishek's breakthrough came in 2022 when he was called up to the senior India camp. The transition to the national setup was a significant challenge, but he embraced the rigorous demands with open arms. Under the guidance of coach Graham Reid, Abhishek has developed into a formidable striker, known for his lightning-fast reflexes, impeccable ball control, and ability to find the right angles inside the circle.Off the field, Abhishek is a stark contrast to his on-field persona. He is deceptively calm, preferring actions over words. His quiet confidence and unwavering belief in his abilities have been instrumental in his success.The Olympics have always been a distant dream for Abhishek, but his performances in the national team have brought it within reach. He is determined to make the Paris squad and contribute to India's medal hopes."To do whatever it takes — die, bleed, break bones — the end result is to score goals, win matches," he says with a quiet intensity.Abhishek's journey is a reminder that success is not always a straight path. It requires hard work, perseverance, and a belief in oneself. As he prepares for the biggest stage in sports, Abhishek is confident that he can make his mark and help India achieve its Olympic dreams.