Will India equal As the Olympics start today in Paris and continue from Friday, the 117 Indian players are in different predicament. Athletes are placed under immense pressure some who have the full expectation of winning and others who are focused on winning the insignificant. To bid their careers a grand farewell some veterans are intending to play the final leagued of cricket.
The country is favoured to do better compared to the previous Games. Tokyo saw the figure of seven medals, and as such, there are high chances that the current tally will be double-digits. Other than wrestlers, who have complained of a hard time in the preparation towards the event, most athletes have praised the host’s preparations. Training in other countries as well as equipment of the highest standards have contributed to their training.
But the question is: Will this dedication, strategies, and continuous support from the nation result in a rainfall of medals for India? That when this greatest of sporting events will be held can only be answered by time as it commences in Paris.
Will the seven-figure be broken?
Surpassing the Tokyo Olympics tally of seven medals will be a tough challenge for India, as only a few athletes are considered top contenders in their events.
The majority of the 117-member Indian contingent are from athletics (29), shooting (21), and hockey (19). Of these 69 athletes, 40 are making their Olympics debuts. Some players like tennis player N Sriram Balaji and wrestler Ritika Hooda are also making their debuts in other sports.
At the same time, there are some experienced players who are expected to improve their performances. For PV Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medallist in badminton; tennis icon Rohan Bopanna; legendary table tennis player Sharath Kamal and hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, this could be the last Olympic appearance.
The hockey team’s recent form has been inconsistent, while the boxers and wrestlers have experienced limited real competition. Similarly, the shooters’ performances have been mixed.
Recent performances of Indian athletes, especially Avinash Sable, have impressed. However, his achievements may not be enough for a medal compared to international competitors. Sable has a best time of 8:09.94, but seven international athletes have recorded better times than him for the Olympic Games.
Key medal contenders
India’s hopes for Olympic glory rest mainly on Neeraj Chopra, in javelin throw. Along with him, hopes are also on badminton duo Chirag Shetty and SatwikSairaj Rankireddy.
Neeraj may not have touched the 90m mark, but he has won consecutive global titles. If he maintains his fitness, he can become the third Indian athlete to win a second consecutive Olympic medal.
Along with Sindhu, Chirag and Satwik, the Indian men’s hockey team, shooters, and wrestlers are also medal contenders.
India also has good chances in other sports. Players in table tennis and archery have impressed with their performances. Mirabai Chanu in weightlifting and boxer Nikhat Zareen will also be in focus.
India has so far won 35 medals at the Olympics, with Abhinav Bindra (2008) and Neeraj Chopra (2021) being the only individual gold medallists.
conclusion
The possibility of India equaling or surpassing their historic medal haul from the Tokyo Olympics at the Paris 2024 Olympics hinges on various factors. These include the continued development and support for athletes, successful performances in key sports where India has shown strength, and potential breakthroughs in new disciplines. With enhanced training programs, government support, and rising talent, India has a promising chance to achieve or exceed their previous success. However, the unpredictable nature of sports means that outcomes will depend on individual performances and competition on the day.