 |
|
India's sporting ambitions are set high for the Paris Olympics, with a historic double-digit medal tally firmly in their sights. This ambitious goal is fueled by the impressive performances of Indian athletes across various disciplines, and a palpable sense of national anticipation for a triumphant display on the global stage. The article highlights key contenders for medals, showcasing a diverse range of athletes with the potential to make India proud.
Leading the charge is Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic and world champion in javelin throw. While Chopra faces stiff competition from the rising star Max Dehning, his prowess and experience make him a strong contender for a second Olympic gold. The article also examines other athletics hopefuls, including Avinash Sable, the steeplechaser with a knack for breaking national records, and the men's 4x400m relay team aiming for a historic final finish.
The badminton contingent, consistently delivering at the Olympics since 2012, is expected to continue its medal-winning tradition. Satwik Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, the world No. 3 pair, are considered the team's strongest medal prospect. The article also mentions the hopes pinned on two-time Olympic medalist Pusarla V Sindhu, and the men's singles pair of HS Prannoy and Lakshya Sen, who will be making history with two entries in the men's singles after a two-decade hiatus.
Boxing promises another strong showing with two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen and Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist Lovlina Borgohain leading the charge. Zareen's impressive form makes her a strong contender for a medal, while Borgohain, despite a tricky draw, is aiming to replicate her Tokyo success. The article also highlights the potential of Nishant Dev, the World championships bronze winner in men's 71kg, adding to India's medal prospects.
India's hockey team, riding the wave of their recent success with a bronze in Tokyo and a gold at the Hangzhou Asian Games, will be looking to continue their resurgence. They are in Pool B with formidable opponents including reigning champion Belgium, Australia, and Argentina. The team's strong performance in the Pro League, despite a recent dip, suggests they have the potential to achieve a top-four finish and reach the knockout stage.
The article also looks at the Archery squad, aiming to surprise with a full six-member team competing in all five events. The men's recurve team, having toppled the reigning Olympic champions South Korea at the Archery World Cup Stage 1 in Shanghai, holds a glimmer of hope for a medal. However, the article emphasizes the need for a stellar performance from the shooting squad, a historically strong discipline for India. The team, with 21 quota places earned, has the potential to deliver, with Bhaker, the Youth Olympic Games gold medalist, competing in multiple events. The article also highlights the promise of Sift Kaur Samra and Tomar, the most successful shooter at the Hangzhou Asian Games.
India's wrestling contingent, with seven Olympic medals to its name, is another strong contender for medals. The article highlights the team's formidable lineup, led by three-time Olympian Vinesh Phogat, who is determined to secure an elusive Olympic medal. The article also examines the prospects of young Antim Panghal, the 2023 world championships bronze winner, and Aman Sehrawat, the sixth-seeded grappler in the men's 57kg category.
Mirabai Chanu, the silver medalist in Tokyo, faces a difficult challenge due to an injury. Despite this setback, her previous performances and determination make her a potential medal contender. The article concludes by discussing the hopes for Aditi Ashok, the golfer who finished a heart-breaking fourth in Tokyo, as she aims for a strong performance in her third Olympic appearance.
Source: Can India achieve a historic double-digit medal tally at the Paris Olympics? Here's who to watch