In a rare incident at a nature reserve on the island of Kyushu in Japan, a nine-year-old female known as Yakei has become the boss of a 677-strong troop of Japanese macaque monkeys.

It all started in April when she beat up her mother to become the alpha female of the troop at the Takasakiyama natural zoological garden in Oita city.&nbsp;

Yakei also threw her 10kg weight around among the males.

In June, she challenged the 31-year-old alpha male, Sanchu, who had been the leader of “troop B” at the reserve for five years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-partners-with-ap-reuters-to-battle-misinformation-on-its-site-402672">Also read |&nbsp;Twitter partners with AP, Reuters to battle misinformation on its site</a>

The wardens at the zoological garden then carried out a “peanut test” as they put out nuts for the group, seeing who ate first.&nbsp;

Satoshi Kimoto, a guide at Takasakiyama, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "Since then, Yakei has been climbing trees and shaking them, which is an expression of power and a very rare behaviour in females".

Kimoto further added, "She has been walking around with her tail up, which is also very unusual for a female".

In a rare incident at a nature reserve on the island of Kyushu in Japan, a nine-year-old female known as Yakei has become the boss of a 677-strong troop of Japanese macaque monkeys.

In a rare incident at a nature reserve on the island of Kyushu in Japan, a nine-year-old female known as Yakei has become the boss of a 677-strong troop of Japanese macaque monkeys. It all started in April when she beat up her mother to become the alpha female of the troop at the Takasakiyama natural zoological garden in Oita city. Yakei also threw her 10kg weight around among the males. In June, she challenged the 31-year-old alpha male, Sanchu, who had been the leader of “troop B” at the reserve for five years. Also read | Twitter partners with AP, Reuters to battle misinformation on its site The wardens at the zoological garden then carried out a “peanut test” as they put out nuts for the group, seeing who ate first. Satoshi Kimoto, a guide at Takasakiyama, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "Since then, Yakei has been climbing trees and shaking them, which is an expression of power and a very rare behaviour in females". Kimoto further added, "She has been walking around with her tail up, which is also very unusual for a female".

Japan reserve gets first alpha female monkey in 70-year history

Japan has carried out a threat to publicly shame people not complying with coronavirus border control measures, releasing the names of three people who broke quarantine rules after returning from overseas. 
 
The health ministry said late on Monday the three Japanese nationals named had clearly acted to avoid contact with authorities after recently returning from abroad. 
 
The announcement, the first of its kind, sparked a flurry of speculation among Twitter users about the details of those identified, such as their jobs and locations. 
 
Japan is asking all travellers from overseas, including its own citizens, to self-quarantine for two weeks, during which they are asked to use a location-tracking smartphone app and report on their health condition.

Japan has carried out a threat to publicly shame people not complying with coronavirus border control measures, releasing the names of three people who broke quarantine rules after returning from overseas.

Japan has carried out a threat to publicly shame people not complying with coronavirus border control measures, releasing the names of three people who broke quarantine rules after returning from overseas. The health ministry said late on Monday the three Japanese nationals named had clearly acted to avoid contact with authorities after recently returning from abroad. The announcement, the first of its kind, sparked a flurry of speculation among Twitter users about the details of those identified, such as their jobs and locations. Japan is asking all travellers from overseas, including its own citizens, to self-quarantine for two weeks, during which they are asked to use a location-tracking smartphone app and report on their health condition.

Japan government starts to 'name and shame' quarantine rule-breakers

Kai Koyama was standing outside Tokyo's Olympic Stadium as fireworks burst overhead during the opening ceremony but unlike many of those around him he wasn't cheering but protesting.

For months, polls showed strong opposition to the Games in Japan, which only grew as virus cases surged and the country's vaccine programme got off to a sluggish start.

But since the opening ceremony, sentiment seems to have softened.&nbsp;

More than half of the city's residents watched the opening extravaganza on TV and long lines have formed by the Olympic Stadium as people wait to have their photo taken with the Olympic rings.

Japanese athletes have won a record number of gold medals and shops selling Games merchandise have reported a surge in sales.

None of that sways Koyama and other long-time opponents of the Games, who continue to stage demonstrations, even if they tend to draw just a few dozen people.

"Lives are more important than medals!" chanted demonstrators outside Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's office in Tokyo on one recent evening.

Koyama was among them, urging Suga to cancel the Olympics and focus on Japan's latest surge in coronavirus cases, which has put Tokyo and other regions in a state of emergency.

"I'm so angry," the painter, in his 40s, told AFP.

"We are in an emergency situation... people are dying every day, but the Olympic Games are still going on."

<h2>Coronavirus threat&nbsp;</h2>

Tokyo 2020 is being held under strict anti-virus rules, with spectators banned from most competition venues.

But Koyama argues that holding the event sends the wrong message and encourages people to flout restrictions and risk infection.

He was outside the Olympic Stadium on July 23 when the shouts of protesters using loudspeakers could be heard in the nearly empty venue.

"I felt powerless and angry when I saw the fireworks at the National Stadium that told us the Games had started, despite opposition from 80 percent of the Japanese public."

Koyama has channeled his frustration into an art exhibition called "Declaration for the end of the Olympic Games", bringing together works by artists who oppose the event.

Exhibits include the clay sculpture "Ruins", in which Olympic rings, an olive-leaf wreath and a hand are covered by pale sand.

"There are athletes who perform with great skill, and people who enjoy watching, and I think that's a wonderful thing. But I feel people take the threat of the coronavirus too lightly," artist Sachiko Kawamura told AFP.

Kawamura argues "the way money is spent (on the Games) is wrong".

The government should be concentrating on dealing with the virus rather than spending on the Olympics, she said.

<h2>'Forced to watch'</h2>

While the virus has driven some misgivings about the Games, others in Japan opposed Tokyo's host bid from the early days, including 55-year-old painter Takatoshi Sakuragawa.

He struggled to understand why the country was competing for the competition in the International Olympic Committee vote in 2013 when it was still reeling from a 2011 tsunami that left more than 18,000 people dead or missing and triggered a nuclear disaster.

"I wondered why they were pouring energy into something like the Olympics even after our worst-ever disaster," Sakuragawa told AFP.

The Tokyo bid committee said the Olympics would help rebuild the disaster-hit area through the "power of sports".

But a poll in March among residents of regions hardest hit by the 2011 disaster found 61 percent disagreed that the Tokyo Games were helping reconstruction, against 24 percent who agreed.

Only a handful of Olympic events are happening in the affected area, many without spectators.

Koyama said he was shocked that Olympic organizers were willing to ignore public opposition, calling them "anti-democratic and dictatorial".

And Sakuragawa said he was trying to avoid Games coverage even though he enjoys watching sport.

"But whichever TV channel I turn on has them, so I'm kind of forced to watch."

Kai Koyama was standing outside Tokyo's Olympic Stadium as fireworks burst overhead during the opening ceremony but unlike many of those around him he wasn't cheering but protesting.

Kai Koyama was standing outside Tokyo's Olympic Stadium as fireworks burst overhead during the opening ceremony but unlike many of those around him he wasn't cheering but protesting. For months, polls showed strong opposition to the Games in Japan, which only grew as virus cases surged and the country's vaccine programme got off to a sluggish start. But since the opening ceremony, sentiment seems to have softened. More than half of the city's residents watched the opening extravaganza on TV and long lines have formed by the Olympic Stadium as people wait to have their photo taken with the Olympic rings. Japanese athletes have won a record number of gold medals and shops selling Games merchandise have reported a surge in sales. None of that sways Koyama and other long-time opponents of the Games, who continue to stage demonstrations, even if they tend to draw just a few dozen people. "Lives are more important than medals!" chanted demonstrators outside Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's office in Tokyo on one recent evening. Koyama was among them, urging Suga to cancel the Olympics and focus on Japan's latest surge in coronavirus cases, which has put Tokyo and other regions in a state of emergency. "I'm so angry," the painter, in his 40s, told AFP. "We are in an emergency situation... people are dying every day, but the Olympic Games are still going on." Coronavirus threat Tokyo 2020 is being held under strict anti-virus rules, with spectators banned from most competition venues. But Koyama argues that holding the event sends the wrong message and encourages people to flout restrictions and risk infection. He was outside the Olympic Stadium on July 23 when the shouts of protesters using loudspeakers could be heard in the nearly empty venue. "I felt powerless and angry when I saw the fireworks at the National Stadium that told us the Games had started, despite opposition from 80 percent of the Japanese public." Koyama has channeled his frustration into an art exhibition called "Declaration for the end of the Olympic Games", bringing together works by artists who oppose the event. Exhibits include the clay sculpture "Ruins", in which Olympic rings, an olive-leaf wreath and a hand are covered by pale sand. "There are athletes who perform with great skill, and people who enjoy watching, and I think that's a wonderful thing. But I feel people take the threat of the coronavirus too lightly," artist Sachiko Kawamura told AFP. Kawamura argues "the way money is spent (on the Games) is wrong". The government should be concentrating on dealing with the virus rather than spending on the Olympics, she said. 'Forced to watch' While the virus has driven some misgivings about the Games, others in Japan opposed Tokyo's host bid from the early days, including 55-year-old painter Takatoshi Sakuragawa. He struggled to understand why the country was competing for the competition in the International Olympic Committee vote in 2013 when it was still reeling from a 2011 tsunami that left more than 18,000 people dead or missing and triggered a nuclear disaster. "I wondered why they were pouring energy into something like the Olympics even after our worst-ever disaster," Sakuragawa told AFP. The Tokyo bid committee said the Olympics would help rebuild the disaster-hit area through the "power of sports". But a poll in March among residents of regions hardest hit by the 2011 disaster found 61 percent disagreed that the Tokyo Games were helping reconstruction, against 24 percent who agreed. Only a handful of Olympic events are happening in the affected area, many without spectators. Koyama said he was shocked that Olympic organizers were willing to ignore public opposition, calling them "anti-democratic and dictatorial". And Sakuragawa said he was trying to avoid Games coverage even though he enjoys watching sport. "But whichever TV channel I turn on has them, so I'm kind of forced to watch."

Tokyo 2020: Japan's anti-Olympic activists fight on

As competitors battled for the podium on the third day of Olympic athletics on Sunday, it was Tokyo's stunning heat that perhaps dished out the most pain.

Punishing conditions&nbsp;greeted athletes and officials as a trackside thermometer touched 40 degrees Celsius (104°F) and the humidity hovered around 60%, with sun beating down on the fan-free Olympic Stadium.

Sweat-soaked reporters donned wet towels as the women's 3,000 metre steeplechase qualifier played out, the event's trademark water hazard appearing more enticing than ever.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-2020-us-swimmer-caeleb-dressel-joins-olympic-pantheon-with-five-golds-in-tokyo-402128" hreflang="en">Olympics 2020: US swimmer Caeleb Dressel joins Olympic pantheon with five golds in Tokyo</a>

The risks of heat-stroke&nbsp;at one of the hottest Games on record are borne by the athletes, but also by the thousands of staff, especially at outdoor venues.

Some 30 people involved in the organisation of the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;have suffered heat-related illness so far but all had mild symptoms, Games director general Toshiro Muto said.

"Before the outset of the coronavirus problem, the important issue for the Tokyo Games was a response to heat illness," Muto told reporters. "We looked into all sorts of scenarios to take thorough measures. I believe our steps have been working well so far."

Bruno Schmidt, Brazilian 2016 gold medallist in beach volleyball, said the Games were hotter and muggier than he had expected. "The first two weeks here are one of the hottest that I had in my life, believe it or not."

But South Africa's Wayde van Niekerk, 400-metre world record holder and 2016 gold-medallist, said that while it would be nice if the humidity could be dialled down, "every competitor needs to deal with it and we take it in our stride".

World Athletics spokesperson Nicole Jeffery said the timetable has been designed to hold endurance events in the evening when it is cooler.

The packed evening agenda includes the marquee men's 100-metre final.

"All athletes are provided with water and ice and the medical team is observing them closely to make sure no-one is showing signs of heat stress," Jeffery said.

Jeffery added "cold water immersion facilities" were available for anyone suffering from heat.

The morning athletics programme saw China's Gong Lijiao win the women's shot put gold as qualifying rounds in the women's hammer throw, long jump and men's 400 metres took place.

<h2>'SO GOOD'</h2>

The Tokyo Games, from July 23 to Aug. 8, coincide with the year's hottest weather in Tokyo where the temperature can rise to 35 degree Celsius (95°F) or more. The 1964 Tokyo Summer&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;were held in October.

A study last year by a Games adviser, analysing data back to 1984, found that Tokyo had the highest average temperature and precipitation of any host city for the period the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;were held. Tokyo's five hottest days since 1964 fell in or around the period of this year's Games.

In 2013, the Tokyo bid committee promised "many days of mild and sunny weather", providing "an ideal climate for athletes to perform at their best", in defending the timing, which was driven by global broadcast schedules, when the global sports calendar is otherwise light.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-australias-emma-mckeon-becomes-first-female-swimmer-to-win-7-medals-at-single-games-402137" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Australia's Emma McKeon becomes first female swimmer to win 7 medals at single Games</a>

Battling stifling temperatures on Wednesday, tennis world No. 2 Daniil Medvedev warned officials a player "can die" in the heat. The sports' governing body later agreed to delay match start times in response to similar complaints by other players.

Hockey players, sweltering on an unshaded pitch, were given double the usual number of two-minute breaks.

At the equestrian cross-country course, France's Karim Florent Laghouag donned an ice vest, a wet towel and bags of ice around his neck when speaking to journalists after his ride.

"This is so good," he said, pointing at the vest as temperatures climbed well over 30 degrees Celsius.

Organisers have deployed a host of tools - from mist-spraying stations to cooling vests to AI gadgets that warn of heat-stroke risk - to beat the heat while handing out salt tablets and ice cream to volunteers.

Tokyo has also used roads that reflect heat or pavements that absorb water and the organisers moved the marathon and race-walk to the cooler northern city of Sapporo.

As competitors battled for the podium on the third day of Olympic athletics on Sunday, it was Tokyo's stunning heat that perhaps dished out the most pain. Punishing conditions greeted athletes and officials as a trackside thermometer touched 40 degrees Celsius (104°F) and the humidity hovered around 60%, with sun beating down on the fan-free Olympic Stadium.

As competitors battled for the podium on the third day of Olympic athletics on Sunday, it was Tokyo's stunning heat that perhaps dished out the most pain. Punishing conditions greeted athletes and officials as a trackside thermometer touched 40 degrees Celsius (104°F) and the humidity hovered around 60%, with sun beating down on the fan-free Olympic Stadium. Sweat-soaked reporters donned wet towels as the women's 3,000 metre steeplechase qualifier played out, the event's trademark water hazard appearing more enticing than ever. ALSO READ: Olympics 2020: US swimmer Caeleb Dressel joins Olympic pantheon with five golds in Tokyo The risks of heat-stroke at one of the hottest Games on record are borne by the athletes, but also by the thousands of staff, especially at outdoor venues. Some 30 people involved in the organisation of the Olympics have suffered heat-related illness so far but all had mild symptoms, Games director general Toshiro Muto said. "Before the outset of the coronavirus problem, the important issue for the Tokyo Games was a response to heat illness," Muto told reporters. "We looked into all sorts of scenarios to take thorough measures. I believe our steps have been working well so far." Bruno Schmidt, Brazilian 2016 gold medallist in beach volleyball, said the Games were hotter and muggier than he had expected. "The first two weeks here are one of the hottest that I had in my life, believe it or not." But South Africa's Wayde van Niekerk, 400-metre world record holder and 2016 gold-medallist, said that while it would be nice if the humidity could be dialled down, "every competitor needs to deal with it and we take it in our stride". World Athletics spokesperson Nicole Jeffery said the timetable has been designed to hold endurance events in the evening when it is cooler. The packed evening agenda includes the marquee men's 100-metre final. "All athletes are provided with water and ice and the medical team is observing them closely to make sure no-one is showing signs of heat stress," Jeffery said. Jeffery added "cold water immersion facilities" were available for anyone suffering from heat. The morning athletics programme saw China's Gong Lijiao win the women's shot put gold as qualifying rounds in the women's hammer throw, long jump and men's 400 metres took place. 'SO GOOD' The Tokyo Games, from July 23 to Aug. 8, coincide with the year's hottest weather in Tokyo where the temperature can rise to 35 degree Celsius (95°F) or more. The 1964 Tokyo Summer Olympics were held in October. A study last year by a Games adviser, analysing data back to 1984, found that Tokyo had the highest average temperature and precipitation of any host city for the period the Olympics were held. Tokyo's five hottest days since 1964 fell in or around the period of this year's Games. In 2013, the Tokyo bid committee promised "many days of mild and sunny weather", providing "an ideal climate for athletes to perform at their best", in defending the timing, which was driven by global broadcast schedules, when the global sports calendar is otherwise light. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Australia's Emma McKeon becomes first female swimmer to win 7 medals at single Games Battling stifling temperatures on Wednesday, tennis world No. 2 Daniil Medvedev warned officials a player "can die" in the heat. The sports' governing body later agreed to delay match start times in response to similar complaints by other players. Hockey players, sweltering on an unshaded pitch, were given double the usual number of two-minute breaks. At the equestrian cross-country course, France's Karim Florent Laghouag donned an ice vest, a wet towel and bags of ice around his neck when speaking to journalists after his ride. "This is so good," he said, pointing at the vest as temperatures climbed well over 30 degrees Celsius. Organisers have deployed a host of tools - from mist-spraying stations to cooling vests to AI gadgets that warn of heat-stroke risk - to beat the heat while handing out salt tablets and ice cream to volunteers. Tokyo has also used roads that reflect heat or pavements that absorb water and the organisers moved the marathon and race-walk to the cooler northern city of Sapporo.

Olympics 2020: Tokyo heat roasts outdoor athletes amid heat-stroke risk

Japan said on Friday it will expand states of emergency to three prefectures near Tokyo and Osaka, as COVID-19 cases spike in the capital and across the country. Japan saw new COVID-19 cases surpass 10,000 for two days in a row, while Tokyo cases broke records for three days in a row through Thursday. Currently, the state of emergency is in force in five cities in Japan.

Japan to expand state of emergency as COVID-19 cases spike in country

Japan's government on Friday proposed&nbsp;states of&nbsp;emergency&nbsp;through August&nbsp;31 in three prefectures near Olympic host Tokyo and the western prefecture of Osaka, as&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases spike to records, overshadowing the Summer Games.

Existing&nbsp;states of&nbsp;emergency&nbsp;for Tokyo - its fourth since the pandemic began - and southern Okinawa island should also be extended to Aug. 31, Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who is spearheading&nbsp;Japan's pandemic response, told a panel of experts in announcing the proposed expansion.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is expected to formally announce the move later on Friday after the experts approved it.

Japan&nbsp;has avoided a devastating&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;outbreak, but is now struggling to contain the highly transmissible Delta variant, with daily cases nationwide topping 10,000 for the first time on Thursday, media reported.

Japan&nbsp;has imposed a series of "state&nbsp;of&nbsp;emergency" declarations, but the orders are mostly voluntary, unlike other countries which impose strict lockdowns.

Many people have grown weary of the stay-home requests, with some bars refusing to adhere to service restrictions, and&nbsp;Japan's vaccination rollout lags.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-thought-i-had-won-the-bout-couldnt-believe-that-i-lost-says-mc-mary-kom-401541">Also read |&nbsp;Tokyo Olympics: 'Thought I had won the bout, couldn't believe that I lost', says MC Mary Kom</a>

Health Minister Norihisa Tamura said the country had entered a new "extremely frightening" stage as cases are spiking even though the movement of people was not increasing, and said the highly transmissible Delta variant was a big factor.

"I think that people cannot see ahead and, worrying how long this situation will last, they find it unbearable that they cannot return to normal daily life," he told the panel.

The surge in&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases is bad news for Suga, whose support rates are already at their lowest since he took office last September and who faces a ruling party leadership race and general election later this year.

Tokyo announced a record 3,865 daily infections on Thursday, up from 3,177 a day earlier. The surge is beginning to strain the medical system, with 64% of Tokyo's hospital beds available for serious&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases already filled as of Wednesday.

Suga and&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;organisers have denied there is any link between the July 23-August 8 Summer Games and the recent sharp spike in cases.

Unlike the voluntary restrictions and low vaccination rates elsewhere in&nbsp;Japan, the Olympic village in Tokyo for athletes and coaches boasts more than 80% vaccination, testing is compulsory and movement is stringently curtailed.

Athletes and other attendees from around the world must follow strict rules to prevent any spread of the virus within the "Olympic bubble" or to the wider city. Spectators are banned from most venues.

Organisers said on Friday reported 27 new Games-related&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases including three athletes, bringing the total Games-linked infections since July 1 to 220.

But experts worry holding the Games has sent a confusing message to the public about the need to limit activities.

Less than 30% of residents of&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;are fully vaccinated. Nishimura repeated that all those who want to get vaccinated should be able to do so by October or November.

Japan's government on Friday proposed states of emergency through August 31 in three prefectures near Olympic host Tokyo and the western prefecture of Osaka, as COVID-19 cases spike to records, overshadowing the Summer Games.

Japan's government on Friday proposed states of emergency through August 31 in three prefectures near Olympic host Tokyo and the western prefecture of Osaka, as COVID-19 cases spike to records, overshadowing the Summer Games. Existing states of emergency for Tokyo - its fourth since the pandemic began - and southern Okinawa island should also be extended to Aug. 31, Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who is spearheading Japan's pandemic response, told a panel of experts in announcing the proposed expansion. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is expected to formally announce the move later on Friday after the experts approved it. Japan has avoided a devastating COVID-19 outbreak, but is now struggling to contain the highly transmissible Delta variant, with daily cases nationwide topping 10,000 for the first time on Thursday, media reported. Japan has imposed a series of "state of emergency" declarations, but the orders are mostly voluntary, unlike other countries which impose strict lockdowns. Many people have grown weary of the stay-home requests, with some bars refusing to adhere to service restrictions, and Japan's vaccination rollout lags. Also read | Tokyo Olympics: 'Thought I had won the bout, couldn't believe that I lost', says MC Mary Kom Health Minister Norihisa Tamura said the country had entered a new "extremely frightening" stage as cases are spiking even though the movement of people was not increasing, and said the highly transmissible Delta variant was a big factor. "I think that people cannot see ahead and, worrying how long this situation will last, they find it unbearable that they cannot return to normal daily life," he told the panel. The surge in COVID-19 cases is bad news for Suga, whose support rates are already at their lowest since he took office last September and who faces a ruling party leadership race and general election later this year. Tokyo announced a record 3,865 daily infections on Thursday, up from 3,177 a day earlier. The surge is beginning to strain the medical system, with 64% of Tokyo's hospital beds available for serious COVID-19 cases already filled as of Wednesday. Suga and Olympics organisers have denied there is any link between the July 23-August 8 Summer Games and the recent sharp spike in cases. Unlike the voluntary restrictions and low vaccination rates elsewhere in Japan, the Olympic village in Tokyo for athletes and coaches boasts more than 80% vaccination, testing is compulsory and movement is stringently curtailed. Athletes and other attendees from around the world must follow strict rules to prevent any spread of the virus within the "Olympic bubble" or to the wider city. Spectators are banned from most venues. Organisers said on Friday reported 27 new Games-related COVID-19 cases including three athletes, bringing the total Games-linked infections since July 1 to 220. But experts worry holding the Games has sent a confusing message to the public about the need to limit activities. Less than 30% of residents of Japan are fully vaccinated. Nishimura repeated that all those who want to get vaccinated should be able to do so by October or November.

Japan to expand state of emergency as COVID-19 shadows Olympics

Even after reporting the highest daily jump in COVID-19 infections among the Tokyo games participants, the organizers of the games have dismissed any link to the COVID. Experts have warned that the rising number of cases could lead to a health crisis.

Tokyo games participants test positive for COVID, organisers dismiss any link to virus

The archery events threw a few shocks.&nbsp;Teen sensation Kim De Jeok of Korea, fifth seed Hiroki Muto of Japan, and eighth seed Dutchman Sjef van der Berg being wiped out.&nbsp;

A lot of talks have been going on the conditions as well, particularly with a storm moving towards Japan.&nbsp;

The Indian archers began a losing note with Tarundeep Rai losing his round of 32 against Israel's Itay Shanny in the men's individual archery contest.&nbsp;Itay Shanny crushed Tarundeep Rai in a shoot-off after the scores were level towards the end of the fifth set.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tropical-storm-nepartak-makes-landfall-in-japan-401062" hreflang="en">Tropical Storm Nepartak makes landfall in Japan</a>

Pravin Jadhav by a long shot the best Indian archer in the positioning round, completing 31st with 656 points, ahead of Atanu Das and Tarundeep Rai.&nbsp;

Pravin Jadhav began well with a 10 at 207 kmph speed.&nbsp;

<h2>Set 1 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0&nbsp;</h2>

Pravin:10, 9, 10 (29)&nbsp;

Bazarzhapov: 9, 9, 9 (27)&nbsp;

<h2>Set 2 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0&nbsp;</h2>

Pravin:9, 9, 10 (28)&nbsp;

Bazarzhapov: 10, 10, 7 (27)&nbsp;

<h2>Set 3 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0&nbsp;</h2>

Pravin:9, 9, 10 (28)&nbsp;

Bazarzhapov: 8, 7, 9 (24)

Pravin Jadhav has been probably the best archer for India in the Tokyo Olympics 2021. Among the three Indian male archers, he arose on top in the ranking round. 
&nbsp; 
A lot of came in as an integral factor here. Pravin Jadhav's&nbsp;certainty, steadiness, ability and all the more significantly adjusting to conditions.&nbsp;

Pravin Jadhav won the third set 28-24 and breezes into the next round.

The archery events threw a few shocks. Teen sensation Kim De Jeok of Korea, fifth seed Hiroki Muto of Japan, and eighth seed Dutchman Sjef van der Berg being wiped out.

The archery events threw a few shocks. Teen sensation Kim De Jeok of Korea, fifth seed Hiroki Muto of Japan, and eighth seed Dutchman Sjef van der Berg being wiped out. A lot of talks have been going on the conditions as well, particularly with a storm moving towards Japan. The Indian archers began a losing note with Tarundeep Rai losing his round of 32 against Israel's Itay Shanny in the men's individual archery contest. Itay Shanny crushed Tarundeep Rai in a shoot-off after the scores were level towards the end of the fifth set. ALSO READ: Tropical Storm Nepartak makes landfall in Japan Pravin Jadhav by a long shot the best Indian archer in the positioning round, completing 31st with 656 points, ahead of Atanu Das and Tarundeep Rai. Pravin Jadhav began well with a 10 at 207 kmph speed. Set 1 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0 Pravin:10, 9, 10 (29) Bazarzhapov: 9, 9, 9 (27) Set 2 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0 Pravin:9, 9, 10 (28) Bazarzhapov: 10, 10, 7 (27) Set 3 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0 Pravin:9, 9, 10 (28) Bazarzhapov: 8, 7, 9 (24) Pravin Jadhav has been probably the best archer for India in the Tokyo Olympics 2021. Among the three Indian male archers, he arose on top in the ranking round. A lot of came in as an integral factor here. Pravin Jadhav's certainty, steadiness, ability and all the more significantly adjusting to conditions. Pravin Jadhav won the third set 28-24 and breezes into the next round.

Tokyo Olympics, Archery: Pravin Jadhav knocks out World no. 2 Galsan Bazarzhapov in 1st round

Two skateboarding gold medals in two days have made the people of Japan excited about the sport which is making its Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020.

Japanese skateboarders 'excited' by two gold medal victories

Japan's&nbsp;tennis star&nbsp;Naomi&nbsp;Osaka has been eliminated from the women's tennis singles tournament at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on July 27 (Tuesday) after being defeated in the third round.&nbsp;

On day four of the Games, Czech Marketa Vondrousov crushed Osaka's dreams of winning an Olympic gold medal on home soil. The world number two was swiped aside 6-1, 6-4 by Vondrousova in an early shock.&nbsp;

Osaka was off to a poor start as she dropped serve in the opening game and then she was broken twice more as Vondrousova won the first set.

However, Osaka broke in the second set but relinquished the early advantage with a double fault. She&nbsp;saved two match points as she served to stay alive at 4-5 but Vondrousova emerged as a tough competitor and&nbsp;snatched the victory.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-manu-bhaker-saurabh-chaudhary-fail-to-qualify-for-mixed-team-10m-air-pistol-qualification-medal-rounds-400852">Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker, Saurabh Chaudhary fail to qualify for mixed-team 10m air pistol Qualification medal rounds</a>

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Daring to dream. 
 
🇨🇿 Marketa Vondrousova is the first player through to the women’s singles quarterfinals, upsetting Naomi Osaka in straight sets. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tennis</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/wWVyxva7Kz">pic.twitter.com/wWVyxva7Kz</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1419884362242269186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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She had earlier said, "It definitely would mean a lot for me to win gold here, but I know it's a process. I know that these are the best players in the world".

Osaka, who got the honour of lighting the Olympic cauldron during the opening ceremony, was attempting to become Japan's first Olympic tennis champion after Kei Nishikori, who won a bronze in the men's singles in 2016, beating Rafael Nadal.&nbsp;

Previously, Wimbledon champion Ashleigh Barty made shock exit in the first round.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-rupinder-pal-singh-strikes-twice-as-india-defeat-spain-3-0-in-pool-a-clash-400867">Tokyo Olympics: Rupinder Pal Singh strikes twice as India defeat Spain 3-0 in Pool A clash</a>

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka has been eliminated from the women's tennis singles tournament at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on July 27 (Tuesday) after being defeated in the third round.

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka has been eliminated from the women's tennis singles tournament at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on July 27 (Tuesday) after being defeated in the third round. On day four of the Games, Czech Marketa Vondrousov crushed Osaka's dreams of winning an Olympic gold medal on home soil. The world number two was swiped aside 6-1, 6-4 by Vondrousova in an early shock. Osaka was off to a poor start as she dropped serve in the opening game and then she was broken twice more as Vondrousova won the first set. However, Osaka broke in the second set but relinquished the early advantage with a double fault. She saved two match points as she served to stay alive at 4-5 but Vondrousova emerged as a tough competitor and snatched the victory. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker, Saurabh Chaudhary fail to qualify for mixed-team 10m air pistol Qualification medal rounds Daring to dream. 🇨🇿 Marketa Vondrousova is the first player through to the women’s singles quarterfinals, upsetting Naomi Osaka in straight sets. #Olympics • #Tennis • #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/wWVyxva7Kz — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) July 27, 2021 × She had earlier said, "It definitely would mean a lot for me to win gold here, but I know it's a process. I know that these are the best players in the world". Osaka, who got the honour of lighting the Olympic cauldron during the opening ceremony, was attempting to become Japan's first Olympic tennis champion after Kei Nishikori, who won a bronze in the men's singles in 2016, beating Rafael Nadal. Previously, Wimbledon champion Ashleigh Barty made shock exit in the first round. Also Read: Tokyo Olympics: Rupinder Pal Singh strikes twice as India defeat Spain 3-0 in Pool A clash

Tokyo Olympics: Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka knocked out of third round

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka's dreams of home Olympic gold were crushed by a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Marketa Vondrousova Tuesday as her return to action came to an abrupt end.

Osaka, who lit the Olympic cauldron and was one of the faces of the Games, struggled in an error-strewn display that blew the draw wide open after the earlier exits of world number one Ashleigh Barty and third seed Aryna Sabalenka.

"How disappointed am I? I mean, I'm disappointed in every loss, but&nbsp;I feel like this one s**ks more than the others," said the four-time Grand Slam winner.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-japans-tennis-star-naomi-osaka-knocked-out-of-third-round-400902" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka knocked out of third round</a>

Asked what went wrong, she replied: "Everything if you watch the match then you would probably see. I feel like there's a lot of things that I counted on that I couldn't rely on today."

The third-round defeat follows a turbulent few months for Osaka, who abandoned her French Open campaign in May after refusing to attend press conferences, citing the need to preserve her mental health.

Osaka also skipped Wimbledon, saying she had been battling depression and anxiety, before returning to Tokyo for her first Olympics, including her starring role at the opening ceremony.

"I definitely feel like there was a lot of pressure for this. I think it's maybe because I haven't played in the&nbsp;Olympics before and for the first year&nbsp;was a bit much," said Osaka.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-swimming-australias-mckeown-wins-100m-backstroke-gold-in-debut-olympics-400882" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Swimming-Australia's McKeown wins 100m backstroke gold in debut Olympics</a>

After looking assured in the first two rounds after her eight-week hiatus, Osaka made a dreadful start under the centre court roof at a rain-hit Ariake Tennis Park and never recovered.

"I've taken long breaks before and I've managed to do well.&nbsp;I'm not saying that I did bad right now, but I do know that my expectations were a lot higher," she said.

"I feel like my attitude wasn't that great because I don't really know how to cope with that pressure so that's the best that I could have done in this situation.

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka's dreams of home Olympic gold were crushed by a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Marketa Vondrousova Tuesday as her return to action came to an abrupt end.

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka's dreams of home Olympic gold were crushed by a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Marketa Vondrousova Tuesday as her return to action came to an abrupt end. Osaka, who lit the Olympic cauldron and was one of the faces of the Games, struggled in an error-strewn display that blew the draw wide open after the earlier exits of world number one Ashleigh Barty and third seed Aryna Sabalenka. "How disappointed am I? I mean, I'm disappointed in every loss, but I feel like this one s**ks more than the others," said the four-time Grand Slam winner. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka knocked out of third round Asked what went wrong, she replied: "Everything if you watch the match then you would probably see. I feel like there's a lot of things that I counted on that I couldn't rely on today." The third-round defeat follows a turbulent few months for Osaka, who abandoned her French Open campaign in May after refusing to attend press conferences, citing the need to preserve her mental health. Osaka also skipped Wimbledon, saying she had been battling depression and anxiety, before returning to Tokyo for her first Olympics, including her starring role at the opening ceremony. "I definitely feel like there was a lot of pressure for this. I think it's maybe because I haven't played in the Olympics before and for the first year was a bit much," said Osaka. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Swimming-Australia's McKeown wins 100m backstroke gold in debut Olympics After looking assured in the first two rounds after her eight-week hiatus, Osaka made a dreadful start under the centre court roof at a rain-hit Ariake Tennis Park and never recovered. "I've taken long breaks before and I've managed to do well. I'm not saying that I did bad right now, but I do know that my expectations were a lot higher," she said. "I feel like my attitude wasn't that great because I don't really know how to cope with that pressure so that's the best that I could have done in this situation.

Tokyo Olympics: 'My attitude wasn't great', says Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka after shock exit

Nishiya finished ahead of Brazil's Rayssa Leal -- who at 13 years and 203 days could have become the youngest ever individual Olympic champion -- and Japan's Funa Nakayama, 16.

Nishiya starred in the tricks section to score 15.26 and give the hosts a clean-sweep of the street discipline as skateboarding makes its Olympic debut.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/Tokyo%202020:%20Britain's%20Adam%20Peaty%20wins%20100m%20breaststroke%20gold%20to%20defend%20Olympic%20title">Tokyo 2020: Britain's Adam Peaty wins 100m breaststroke gold to defend Olympic title</a>

Her performance mirrored that of Japan teammate Yuto Horigome, who won the men's title with a stunning sequence of tricks on Sunday.

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A historic first on home soil!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JPN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JPN</a>'s Nishiya Momiji is the first women's Olympic <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Skateboarding?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Skateboarding</a> champion!<a href="https://twitter.com/worldskatesb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@worldskatesb</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Japan_Olympic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Japan_Olympic</a> <a href="https://t.co/6W6ReQE3BS">pic.twitter.com/6W6ReQE3BS</a>
— Olympics (@Olympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics/status/1419515718354227201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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US diver Marjorie Gestring&nbsp;remains the youngest individual Olympic champion after winning the 3m springboard at the 1936 Berlin Games at 13 years and 268 days.

Skaters each have two 45-second runs on the equipment and five shots at a one-off trick. Their best four scores out of the seven make up their final total.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-indian-fencer-bhavani-devi-goes-down-fighting-on-games-debut-400669">Tokyo Olympics: Indian fencer Bhavani Devi goes down fighting on Games debut</a>

Skateboarding is one of four sports making their debut in Tokyo, along with surfing, sport climbing and karate as part of an attempt to bring Olympics to younger audiences.

Nishiya finished ahead of Brazil's Rayssa Leal -- who at 13 years and 203 days could have become the youngest ever individual Olympic champion -- and Japan's Funa Nakayama, 16.

Nishiya finished ahead of Brazil's Rayssa Leal -- who at 13 years and 203 days could have become the youngest ever individual Olympic champion -- and Japan's Funa Nakayama, 16. Nishiya starred in the tricks section to score 15.26 and give the hosts a clean-sweep of the street discipline as skateboarding makes its Olympic debut. ALSO READ | Tokyo 2020: Britain's Adam Peaty wins 100m breaststroke gold to defend Olympic title Her performance mirrored that of Japan teammate Yuto Horigome, who won the men's title with a stunning sequence of tricks on Sunday. A historic first on home soil!#JPN's Nishiya Momiji is the first women's Olympic #Skateboarding champion!@worldskatesb @Japan_Olympic pic.twitter.com/6W6ReQE3BS — Olympics (@Olympics) July 26, 2021 × US diver Marjorie Gestring remains the youngest individual Olympic champion after winning the 3m springboard at the 1936 Berlin Games at 13 years and 268 days. Skaters each have two 45-second runs on the equipment and five shots at a one-off trick. Their best four scores out of the seven make up their final total. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: Indian fencer Bhavani Devi goes down fighting on Games debut Skateboarding is one of four sports making their debut in Tokyo, along with surfing, sport climbing and karate as part of an attempt to bring Olympics to younger audiences.

Tokyo 2020: Japan's Momiji Nishiya, 13, becomes first women's Olympic skateboard champion

World no.1 Novak Djokovic remained steady on his quest to become the first male player to complete the Golden Slam.

The Serbian, who is attempting to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, had a 6-4 6-3 win over Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany in the men's singles.

The players were evenly matched at the start of the first set but the 20-time Grand Slam champion proved too strong, pouncing on Struff's serve while leading 5-3 to take the first set. An early break in the second secured the victory.

"It was a tough opponent for a second round... but you know, I'm very pleased with the way I felt on the court," Djokovic told reporters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-sumit-nagal-loses-to-daniil-medvedev-in-second-round-400713" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Sumit Nagal loses to Daniil Medvedev in second round</a>

Struff's compatriot and fourth seed Alexander Zverev brushed aside Daniel Elahi Galan of Colombia 6-2 6-2, while world number two Daniil Medvedev breezed through with a comfortable 6-2 6-1 win over India's Sumit Nagal.

The tennis tournament reported its first COVID-19 case among players on Monday after men's doubles competitor Jean-Julien Rojer of the Netherlands tested positive.

Rojer is the sixth member of the Dutch Olympic delegation to test positive after infections reported by a skateboarder, a taekwondo fighter and three members of the rowing team, including staff.

Rojer and his partner Wesley Koolhof were placed in isolation, while their second-round opponents from New Zealand received a walkover into the quarter-finals, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) said in a statement.

World no.1 Novak Djokovic remained steady on his quest to become the first male player to complete the Golden Slam. The Serbian, who is attempting to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, had a 6-4 6-3 win over Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany in the men's singles.

World no.1 Novak Djokovic remained steady on his quest to become the first male player to complete the Golden Slam. The Serbian, who is attempting to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, had a 6-4 6-3 win over Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany in the men's singles. The players were evenly matched at the start of the first set but the 20-time Grand Slam champion proved too strong, pouncing on Struff's serve while leading 5-3 to take the first set. An early break in the second secured the victory. "It was a tough opponent for a second round... but you know, I'm very pleased with the way I felt on the court," Djokovic told reporters. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Sumit Nagal loses to Daniil Medvedev in second round Struff's compatriot and fourth seed Alexander Zverev brushed aside Daniel Elahi Galan of Colombia 6-2 6-2, while world number two Daniil Medvedev breezed through with a comfortable 6-2 6-1 win over India's Sumit Nagal. The tennis tournament reported its first COVID-19 case among players on Monday after men's doubles competitor Jean-Julien Rojer of the Netherlands tested positive. Rojer is the sixth member of the Dutch Olympic delegation to test positive after infections reported by a skateboarder, a taekwondo fighter and three members of the rowing team, including staff. Rojer and his partner Wesley Koolhof were placed in isolation, while their second-round opponents from New Zealand received a walkover into the quarter-finals, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) said in a statement.

Tokyo Olympics: World no.1 Novak Djokovic remains on track for gold medal

A top Japan government spokesman has said on Monday that Tokyo will soon protest against Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin's visit to one of four islands held by Russia that are also claimed by Japan. Tokyo calls these islands as the Northern Territories. &nbsp;

At the end of World War II, the Soviets seized the islands. The territorial row over them has strained relations between the two countries for years. It has also prevented the two sides from signing a formal peace treaty. &nbsp;

Touring Russia's Far East and Siberia this week, Mishustin made the first stop at Kuril Islands. The Russian government is looking to set up a special economic zone in the area. &nbsp;

During the visit, Mishustin visited a hospital and a fish plant on Iturup. It is one of the four southernmost Kuril islands. The prime minister said plant workers that the government is considering creating a special economic zone on the islands, where businesses and investors would be free of most taxes and customs duties. &nbsp;

“The measures Russian officials are currently pondering could be a good solution for investors, including the ones in the West, for Japan also, which, if interested, can create jobs here," Mishustin said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A top Japan government spokesman has said on Monday that Tokyo will soon protest against Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin's visit to one of four islands held by Russia that are also claimed by Japan.

A top Japan government spokesman has said on Monday that Tokyo will soon protest against Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin's visit to one of four islands held by Russia that are also claimed by Japan. Tokyo calls these islands as the Northern Territories. At the end of World War II, the Soviets seized the islands. The territorial row over them has strained relations between the two countries for years. It has also prevented the two sides from signing a formal peace treaty. Touring Russia's Far East and Siberia this week, Mishustin made the first stop at Kuril Islands. The Russian government is looking to set up a special economic zone in the area. During the visit, Mishustin visited a hospital and a fish plant on Iturup. It is one of the four southernmost Kuril islands. The prime minister said plant workers that the government is considering creating a special economic zone on the islands, where businesses and investors would be free of most taxes and customs duties. “The measures Russian officials are currently pondering could be a good solution for investors, including the ones in the West, for Japan also, which, if interested, can create jobs here," Mishustin said. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan to protest Russian PM Mikhail Mishustin's visit to disputed Pacific islands  

Naohisa Takato delivered the first gold medal of the Tokyo Games for a host nation desperate for Olympic glory by winning the men's 60 kg judo, a sport fittingly born in Japan 140 years ago.

The win against Taiwan's Yang Yung-wei left Takato openly weeping on the mat and stood in contrast to the lack of fans in an empty arena at the Nippon Budokan, a mecca of Japanese martial arts and concert venues, amid the coronavirus pandemic.

"This is heavy. It makes me feel like dreaming," Takato, who was later all smiles, told reporters when asked about the gold medal that was put around his neck.

The triple world champion judoka, who had disappointed the nation with a bronze medal at the 2016 Games, had a nail-biting ride to the top of the podium with three victories in the finals coming in the sudden death Golden Score period.

He had a close shave in his quarter-final in the 60kg class, winning during Golden Score overtime on a foul by his Georgian opponent Lukhumi Chkhvimiani.

In the elimination round of 16, Takato delivered an ippon against Belgian Jorre Verstaeten.

"It was frustrating in Rio," Takato said, recalling the previous Games where he ended up with bronze. "It was a long road to get here."

In between matches at the eight-sided Nippon Budokan, which was built for the Olympics Japan hosted in 1964, sanitation workers poured disinfectant spray over yellow tatami mats to minimise the risk of coronavirus infection.

Blaring pop, rock and dance music was used to generate an atmosphere before the bouts.

JAPAN'S STRENGTH

Takato's victory underscored Japan's strength at a sport that originated in the country. Bronze medals went to Yeldos Smetov of Kazakhstan and Luka Mkheidze of France.

Japanese female judoka Funa Tonaki reached the final in her 48kg class but lost to Kosovo's Distria Krasniqi, just one bout away from achieving double gold on the same day with Takato.

Tonaki, a one-time world champion making her Olympic debut, won a semi-final with an ippon - judo's equivalent of a knockout - by pinning Ukraine's Daria Bilodid in Golden Score overtime.

It was a bittersweet day for the host nation, which has endured a lead up to the Games like no other.

The career of "King" Kohei Uchimura, twice Olympics all-around champion and holder of seven Olympic medals, came to an abrupt end when he failed to qualify in the gymnastics arena.

Japan also suffered an opening swimming session blow on Saturday when top gold medal hope Daiya Seto failed to make the men's 400 metres medley final.

Nevertheless, many spectators watching the Games at home under lockdown took solace in Takato's moment of joy.

"The first gold medal for Japan! It was a marvellous feat built on the bitter experience at Rio de Janeiro five years ago. Congratulations and thank you," Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike tweeted.

Naohisa Takato delivered the first gold medal of the Tokyo Games for a host nation desperate for Olympic glory by winning the men's 60 kg judo, a sport fittingly born in Japan 140 years ago.

Naohisa Takato delivered the first gold medal of the Tokyo Games for a host nation desperate for Olympic glory by winning the men's 60 kg judo, a sport fittingly born in Japan 140 years ago. The win against Taiwan's Yang Yung-wei left Takato openly weeping on the mat and stood in contrast to the lack of fans in an empty arena at the Nippon Budokan, a mecca of Japanese martial arts and concert venues, amid the coronavirus pandemic. "This is heavy. It makes me feel like dreaming," Takato, who was later all smiles, told reporters when asked about the gold medal that was put around his neck. The triple world champion judoka, who had disappointed the nation with a bronze medal at the 2016 Games, had a nail-biting ride to the top of the podium with three victories in the finals coming in the sudden death Golden Score period. He had a close shave in his quarter-final in the 60kg class, winning during Golden Score overtime on a foul by his Georgian opponent Lukhumi Chkhvimiani. In the elimination round of 16, Takato delivered an ippon against Belgian Jorre Verstaeten. "It was frustrating in Rio," Takato said, recalling the previous Games where he ended up with bronze. "It was a long road to get here." In between matches at the eight-sided Nippon Budokan, which was built for the Olympics Japan hosted in 1964, sanitation workers poured disinfectant spray over yellow tatami mats to minimise the risk of coronavirus infection. Blaring pop, rock and dance music was used to generate an atmosphere before the bouts. JAPAN'S STRENGTH Takato's victory underscored Japan's strength at a sport that originated in the country. Bronze medals went to Yeldos Smetov of Kazakhstan and Luka Mkheidze of France. Japanese female judoka Funa Tonaki reached the final in her 48kg class but lost to Kosovo's Distria Krasniqi, just one bout away from achieving double gold on the same day with Takato. Tonaki, a one-time world champion making her Olympic debut, won a semi-final with an ippon - judo's equivalent of a knockout - by pinning Ukraine's Daria Bilodid in Golden Score overtime. It was a bittersweet day for the host nation, which has endured a lead up to the Games like no other. The career of "King" Kohei Uchimura, twice Olympics all-around champion and holder of seven Olympic medals, came to an abrupt end when he failed to qualify in the gymnastics arena. Japan also suffered an opening swimming session blow on Saturday when top gold medal hope Daiya Seto failed to make the men's 400 metres medley final. Nevertheless, many spectators watching the Games at home under lockdown took solace in Takato's moment of joy. "The first gold medal for Japan! It was a marvellous feat built on the bitter experience at Rio de Janeiro five years ago. Congratulations and thank you," Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike tweeted.

Olympics: Naohisa Takato wins Japan's first gold in men's 60 kg judo

Naomi Osaka said she was feeling refreshed and ready to play, following a dominant 6-1 6-4 win over China's Zheng Saisai in the opening round of the Tokyo Games - her first victory since taking a mental health break two months ago.

The Japanese four-time Grand Slam champion had not played a competitive match since the French Open in May, when she withdrew after being fined for skipping the mandatory post-match press conferences on mental health reasons. She then also pulled out of Wimbledon.

Osaka said she appreciated taking time away from the court ahead of the Games in Tokyo, where she was chosen to light the Olympic cauldron at the opening ceremony on Friday night.

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>&nbsp;

"More than anything, I'm just focused on playing tennis," she said in her first appearance in front of media in more than two months.

"Playing the Olympics has been a dream of mine since I was a kid, so I feel like the break I took was very needed. But I feel definitely a little bit refreshed and happy again."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/Tokyo%20Olympics:%20Silver%20medallist%20Mirabai%20Chanu's%20special%20Olympic%20earrings%20stole%20the%20show">Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show</a>

Osaka's return to the game was hailed by the Japanese public, who showered her with praise following her win.

"(I admire) her powerful nature. Not just when she's playing, but she has her own principles which is wonderful," said 63-year-old office worker Yoshihiro Ohba.

Osaka was in ominous form against the 52nd-ranked Zheng, racing through the first set in just 32 minutes.

In the second set, the 23-year-old gained another early break but squandered two match points on the Chinese player's serve at 5-3.

Osaka went on to serve out the match to love.

Naomi Osaka said she was feeling refreshed and ready to play, following a dominant 6-1 6-4 win over China's Zheng Saisai in the opening round of the Tokyo Games - her first victory since taking a mental health break two months ago.

Naomi Osaka said she was feeling refreshed and ready to play, following a dominant 6-1 6-4 win over China's Zheng Saisai in the opening round of the Tokyo Games - her first victory since taking a mental health break two months ago. The Japanese four-time Grand Slam champion had not played a competitive match since the French Open in May, when she withdrew after being fined for skipping the mandatory post-match press conferences on mental health reasons. She then also pulled out of Wimbledon. Osaka said she appreciated taking time away from the court ahead of the Games in Tokyo, where she was chosen to light the Olympic cauldron at the opening ceremony on Friday night. IN PICS: Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! "More than anything, I'm just focused on playing tennis," she said in her first appearance in front of media in more than two months. "Playing the Olympics has been a dream of mine since I was a kid, so I feel like the break I took was very needed. But I feel definitely a little bit refreshed and happy again." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show Osaka's return to the game was hailed by the Japanese public, who showered her with praise following her win. "(I admire) her powerful nature. Not just when she's playing, but she has her own principles which is wonderful," said 63-year-old office worker Yoshihiro Ohba. Osaka was in ominous form against the 52nd-ranked Zheng, racing through the first set in just 32 minutes. In the second set, the 23-year-old gained another early break but squandered two match points on the Chinese player's serve at 5-3. Osaka went on to serve out the match to love.

Tokyo Olympics: Naomi Osaka refreshed and ready after first win since May

WION Wideangle takes you to Tokyo2020 70+ people linked to the Games tested positive for COVID Experts: Olympic Village bubble already 'broken' No spectators, but thousands are at risk Why is Japan flirting with disaster? Will Tokyo Olympics become a COVID super-spreader?

Tokyo Olympics: A super-spreader games? | WION Wideangle

The director of the opening ceremony of Tokyo Olympics 2020 has been fired on the eve of the event after reports emerged of a past joke he had made about the Holocaust. Video of Kentaro Kobayashi from the 1990s recently emerged in which he appears to make jokes about the Holocaust.

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Opening ceremony Director fired over Holocaust joke

One among them is the highly-skilled Saurabh Chaudhary, who will have a few Olympic and world champions standing in his way to glory at sport''s biggest showpiece.

WION Sports: Strong Indian medal contenders in action on day 1

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics finally kicks off on Friday. The Games will begin still in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first time ever, no fans will be permitted to witness the opening ceremony just like they have been banned from other sporting competitions.

Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony to kick off on Friday

The opening ceremony begins with the stadium being lit and a couple of colourful performances. The most troubled Olympics in modern history finally open in Tokyo on Friday.

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Less than a thousand people attend opening ceremony

Tokyo Olympics: The Parade of Nations at opening ceremony

The head of the International Olympic Committee met with the emperor on Thursday and assured him organisers were doing their utmost not to bring infections into the country.

Tokyo 2020: Japan's Emperor Naruhito to open Olympics, reprising grandfather's role

Japan's Naomi Osaka will return to the spotlight on Sunday, kicking off her Olympic campaign as a home crowd favourite after taking a mental health break two months ago. 
 
Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion and world number two, has not played a competitive match since pulling out of the French Open in May amid controversy over her decision to skip all press conferences at the tournament in an effort to protect her mental well-being. 
 
But with all of her major wins coming on hard courts, the same surface being used in Tokyo, the 23-year-old remains widely seen as one of host Japan's strongest gold medal contenders in a field of 64 players each for women's and men's singles that is missing some of the biggest names in the sport. 
 
Amid heightened coronavirus pandemic restrictions, Switzerland`s Roger Federer and Spain`s Rafael Nadal, each with multiple Grand Slams to their names, both pulled out ahead of the Games, along with reigning US&nbsp;Open men`s champion Dominic Thiem. 
 
In the women's singles, two-time Slam winner Simona Halep will be absent, like American sisters Serena and Venus Williams, who have four gold medals each. Another US&nbsp;player, teenager Coco Gauff, pulled out earlier this week after testing positive for COVID-19. 
 
Osaka, who is making her Olympic debut, had originally been scheduled to kick off the tournament on Centre Court at the Ariake Tennis Park on Saturday. 
 
But she will now take on China`s Zheng Saisai, ranked 52 in the world, on Sunday, following a request from Tokyo 2020 organisers, an International Tennis Federation (ITF) spokesperson confirmed to Reuters. There was no reason given for the change. 
 
Last year`s French Open champion Iga Swiatek will now play the first marquee match of the Games against Mona Barthel of Germany, with the contest set to begin at 11.00am local time (0200 GMT). 
 
Osaka could potentially go on to meet Swiatek in a blockbuster quarter-final, while world number one Ashleigh Barty of Australia may await on the other side of the draw. 
 
In a essay penned for Time Magazine earlier this month, Osaka said she stood by her decision to step away from the court but was now ready to make Japan proud at the Games. 
 
"An Olympic Games itself is special, but to have the opportunity to play in front of the Japanese fans is a dream come true," Osaka wrote.

Japan's Naomi Osaka will return to the spotlight on Sunday, kicking off her Olympic campaign as a home crowd favourite after taking a mental health break two months ago.

Japan's Naomi Osaka will return to the spotlight on Sunday, kicking off her Olympic campaign as a home crowd favourite after taking a mental health break two months ago. Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion and world number two, has not played a competitive match since pulling out of the French Open in May amid controversy over her decision to skip all press conferences at the tournament in an effort to protect her mental well-being. But with all of her major wins coming on hard courts, the same surface being used in Tokyo, the 23-year-old remains widely seen as one of host Japan's strongest gold medal contenders in a field of 64 players each for women's and men's singles that is missing some of the biggest names in the sport. Amid heightened coronavirus pandemic restrictions, Switzerland`s Roger Federer and Spain`s Rafael Nadal, each with multiple Grand Slams to their names, both pulled out ahead of the Games, along with reigning US Open men`s champion Dominic Thiem. In the women's singles, two-time Slam winner Simona Halep will be absent, like American sisters Serena and Venus Williams, who have four gold medals each. Another US player, teenager Coco Gauff, pulled out earlier this week after testing positive for COVID-19. Osaka, who is making her Olympic debut, had originally been scheduled to kick off the tournament on Centre Court at the Ariake Tennis Park on Saturday. But she will now take on China`s Zheng Saisai, ranked 52 in the world, on Sunday, following a request from Tokyo 2020 organisers, an International Tennis Federation (ITF) spokesperson confirmed to Reuters. There was no reason given for the change. Last year`s French Open champion Iga Swiatek will now play the first marquee match of the Games against Mona Barthel of Germany, with the contest set to begin at 11.00am local time (0200 GMT). Osaka could potentially go on to meet Swiatek in a blockbuster quarter-final, while world number one Ashleigh Barty of Australia may await on the other side of the draw. In a essay penned for Time Magazine earlier this month, Osaka said she stood by her decision to step away from the court but was now ready to make Japan proud at the Games. "An Olympic Games itself is special, but to have the opportunity to play in front of the Japanese fans is a dream come true," Osaka wrote.

Olympics- Tennis: Japan's Osaka returns to Games' spotlight on Sunday

Japan's exports jumped in June led by United States demand for cars and China-bound shipments of chip-making equipment, supporting hopes for an export-led recovery in the world's third-largest economy.

World Business Watch: Japan's exports jump on solid United States and China demand

In a video broadcast on a Communist Party of China-approved channel, the government threatened to deploy "continuous nuclear bombs" against Japan over its intervention in Taiwan, Fox News reported.

The five-minute video has received over two million views on China's YouTube-like platforms.

It was eventually removed, but copies of the film were uploaded to YouTube and Twitter by some individuals.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Chinese warplane enters Taiwan's air defence identification zone, 4th incursion this month

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-warplane-enters-taiwans-air-defence-identification-zone-4th-incursion-this-month-396858/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We will use nuclear bombs first," the video said. "We will use nuclear bombs continuously. We will do this until Japan declares unconditional surrender for the second time."&nbsp;

The CCP vows to "liberate Taiwan," and cautions Japan against sending "one soldier, one plane, or one ship" to the island.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Full Video: China &amp; Taiwan clash at WION Global summit

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/full-video-china-taiwan-clash-at-wion-global-summit-372899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The threats come after Japanese officials made comments about Taiwan's sovereignty two weeks ago, with Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso saying that Japan must "protect Taiwan," according to The Japan Times.&nbsp;

Even though the two sides have been ruled separately for more than seven decades, Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy with almost 24 million inhabitants located off the southern coast of mainland China.&nbsp;

Taiwan, on the other hand, has retaliated against Chinese aggression by strengthening strategic connections with democracies such as the United States.

China has warned that "Taiwanese independence" will result in war.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a video broadcast on a Communist Party of China-approved channel, the government threatened to deploy "continuous nuclear bombs" against Japan over its intervention in Taiwan, Fox News reported.

In a video broadcast on a Communist Party of China-approved channel, the government threatened to deploy "continuous nuclear bombs" against Japan over its intervention in Taiwan, Fox News reported. The five-minute video has received over two million views on China's YouTube-like platforms. It was eventually removed, but copies of the film were uploaded to YouTube and Twitter by some individuals. Watch | Chinese warplane enters Taiwan's air defence identification zone, 4th incursion this month "We will use nuclear bombs first," the video said. "We will use nuclear bombs continuously. We will do this until Japan declares unconditional surrender for the second time." The CCP vows to "liberate Taiwan," and cautions Japan against sending "one soldier, one plane, or one ship" to the island. Watch | Full Video: China & Taiwan clash at WION Global summit The threats come after Japanese officials made comments about Taiwan's sovereignty two weeks ago, with Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso saying that Japan must "protect Taiwan," according to The Japan Times. Even though the two sides have been ruled separately for more than seven decades, Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy with almost 24 million inhabitants located off the southern coast of mainland China. Taiwan, on the other hand, has retaliated against Chinese aggression by strengthening strategic connections with democracies such as the United States. China has warned that "Taiwanese independence" will result in war. (With inputs from agencies)

We will use nuclear bombs continuously: China to Japan over interference in Taiwan 

The Tour de France's Saitama Criterium has been cancelled for the second straight year over rising Covid-19 cases, organizers said, days before the Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony.

"We have reached the conclusion that our priority is ensuring the safety and security of the people of Saitama, athletes and other participants, and fans," organisers said in a statement late Tuesday.

"Various anti-infection measures are being taken... but the expanding spread of infections in Japan remains unpredictable," the statement said.

The annual autumn race features winners and stars from the Tour de France and attracts some 100,000 fans to the Saitama region, north of Tokyo.

But the pandemic forced the event's cancellation last year for the first time since it started in 2013.

The greater Tokyo region has seen a rapid rise of new infections in recent weeks, prompting the central government to place the area under a state of emergency.

The measure is much looser than a lockdown, however, and Japan's pandemic outbreak remains much smaller than in many other countries.

The Tokyo Olympics started competition Wednesday with a softball game between Japan and Australia.

The Games, which will officially open Friday, will be held mostly behind closed doors with athletes and officials placed under strict anti-virus protocols.

The Tour de France's Saitama Criterium has been cancelled for the second straight year over rising Covid-19 cases, organizers said, days before the Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony.

The Tour de France's Saitama Criterium has been cancelled for the second straight year over rising Covid-19 cases, organizers said, days before the Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony. "We have reached the conclusion that our priority is ensuring the safety and security of the people of Saitama, athletes and other participants, and fans," organisers said in a statement late Tuesday. "Various anti-infection measures are being taken... but the expanding spread of infections in Japan remains unpredictable," the statement said. The annual autumn race features winners and stars from the Tour de France and attracts some 100,000 fans to the Saitama region, north of Tokyo. But the pandemic forced the event's cancellation last year for the first time since it started in 2013. The greater Tokyo region has seen a rapid rise of new infections in recent weeks, prompting the central government to place the area under a state of emergency. The measure is much looser than a lockdown, however, and Japan's pandemic outbreak remains much smaller than in many other countries. The Tokyo Olympics started competition Wednesday with a softball game between Japan and Australia. The Games, which will officially open Friday, will be held mostly behind closed doors with athletes and officials placed under strict anti-virus protocols.

Japan's cycling Saitama Criterium cancelled over pandemic

Brazil's Olympic football men's team captain Dani Alves has played on the game's biggest stages but says he is still feeling pre-tournament 'butterflies' ahead of Thursday's opener against Germany.

The 38-year-old has made 118 appearances for the full Brazil national team, featuring in two World Cups and at club level, he won three Champions League titles with Barcelona but is set for his debut in the Games as an over-age player for the defending gold medallists.

The full-back showed he is ready to enjoy the occasion by taking to the intercom during the team's flight to Japan to read the safety instructions while wearing a flight attendant neck scarf.

"Those that know me, know I have a youthful spirit, and as it is my first time I will have the same sort of experience as the young lads. Even though I have enjoyed some big moments in my career, given this is my first time at the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;I feel some butterflies in my stomach," he told a news conference.

"Being here is really a special feeling. I am thankful for the opportunity. I hope I can live up to the expectations of the competition and also of our national team," he added.

Brazil won the tournament on home soil in 2016 beating Germany in the final and the pair have been drawn in Group D along with Ivory Coast and Saudi Arabia.

Germany's Olympic preparation match against Honduras on Saturday was cut short by five minutes after defender Jordan Torunarigha was allegedly racially abused but coach Stefan Kuntz said there would not be any gesture or protest made before the Brazil game.

"No, we decided yesterday as a team that as far as we are concerned that matter is concluded and Jordan said that he accepted that as well, so we are going to conclude that case there," he said.

The German team visited the athlete's village on Tuesday where they were able to meet some of the country's other competitors.

"It was really great to feel part of the whole German team, something special to see where 10,000 athletes will be and to feel that whole Olympic feeling and spirit, something I haven't experienced before," said Kuntz.

Brazil's Olympic football men's team captain Dani Alves has played on the game's biggest stages but says he is still feeling pre-tournament 'butterflies' ahead of Thursday's opener against Germany.

Brazil's Olympic football men's team captain Dani Alves has played on the game's biggest stages but says he is still feeling pre-tournament 'butterflies' ahead of Thursday's opener against Germany. The 38-year-old has made 118 appearances for the full Brazil national team, featuring in two World Cups and at club level, he won three Champions League titles with Barcelona but is set for his debut in the Games as an over-age player for the defending gold medallists. The full-back showed he is ready to enjoy the occasion by taking to the intercom during the team's flight to Japan to read the safety instructions while wearing a flight attendant neck scarf. "Those that know me, know I have a youthful spirit, and as it is my first time I will have the same sort of experience as the young lads. Even though I have enjoyed some big moments in my career, given this is my first time at the Olympics I feel some butterflies in my stomach," he told a news conference. "Being here is really a special feeling. I am thankful for the opportunity. I hope I can live up to the expectations of the competition and also of our national team," he added. Brazil won the tournament on home soil in 2016 beating Germany in the final and the pair have been drawn in Group D along with Ivory Coast and Saudi Arabia. Germany's Olympic preparation match against Honduras on Saturday was cut short by five minutes after defender Jordan Torunarigha was allegedly racially abused but coach Stefan Kuntz said there would not be any gesture or protest made before the Brazil game. "No, we decided yesterday as a team that as far as we are concerned that matter is concluded and Jordan said that he accepted that as well, so we are going to conclude that case there," he said. The German team visited the athlete's village on Tuesday where they were able to meet some of the country's other competitors. "It was really great to feel part of the whole German team, something special to see where 10,000 athletes will be and to feel that whole Olympic feeling and spirit, something I haven't experienced before," said Kuntz.

Tokyo Olympics: Brazil's captain Dani Alves feels 'butterflies' ahead of Germany opener

Japan is struggling as a host of the Olympics. Athletes have tested positive at the Olympic village. A venue is "smelling like a toilet". A major sponsor has pulled TV ads & South Korea's President has called off visit Tokyo.

Gravitas: With 4 days left for the games, Japan struggles as a host

An alternate on the United States women's gymnastics team has tested positive for COVID-19 in an Olympic training camp in Inzai city, taking the total number of cases involving the games to nearly 60.

Tokyo Olympics: US gymnast tested positive at training camp in Inzai city

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