Novak Djokovic lost just one game in his Olympic tennis opener on Saturday to set up a potential blockbuster clash against old rival Rafael Nadal.

Paris Olympics 2024: Novak Djokovic begins quest for gold

Shooter Manu Bhaker has advanced to the Chateauroux Shooting Center's Women's 10m Air Pistol final. Bhaker shot 580 to place third in the qualifying round, where Veronika Major, a Hungarian star, took first place with a score of 582.

Paris Olympics 2024: India's Manu Bhaker reaches final of the women's 10m pistol event

<p>Last night’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/olympic-games-2024">Paris 2024 Olympics</a> opening ceremony was a marvellous event as it featured performances from music icons like Celine Dion and Lady Gaga. However, not everything went according to plan for the latter.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/lady-gaga">Lady Gaga</a>, 38, took to a specially constructed stage on the Seine River to deliver a breathtaking performance of the French classic "Mon Truc en Plume." Decked out in a black leotard with a large feathered pom-pom, she and her ten dancers, all wearing custom Dior costumes, performed to the T at the fast-paced number.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The vibrant choreography, featuring rented pom poms from the Le Lido archive, brought a modern twist to the traditional French cabaret style.</p>

<p>Despite the energy and excitement, the performance faced a major hiccup. Due to the rain earlier in the day, the stage was slippery, causing one of the dancers to lose his footing and fall off-stage. His pink pom poms dropped out of sight as he fell backwards, landing behind a speaker.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Impressively, the dancer quickly recovered, leaping back to his feet and rejoining the performance as Lady Gaga continued her routine without missing a beat.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lady Gaga's dancer falls off stage at Olympics opening ceremony<a href="https://t.co/u0NvY2lELx">https://t.co/u0NvY2lELx</a></p>
— Bintano (@bintanonews) <a href="https://twitter.com/bintanonews/status/1817104236112486469?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Lady Gaga did not address the incident directly but expressed her gratitude and pride in a post-performance message on social media. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), she wrote, "I feel so completely grateful to have been asked to open the Paris @Olympics 2024 this year. I am also humbled to be asked by the Olympics organizing committee to sing such a special French song – a song to honour the French people and their tremendous history of art, music, and theatre."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/beyonce-cheers-for-team-usa-at-2024-olympics-in-true-cowboy-carter-style-watch-744697">Beyoncé cheers for team USA at 2024 Olympics in true 'Cowboy Carter' style: Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>She elaborated on the significance of the song "Mon Truc en Plume," originally sung by the French ballerina Zizi Jeanmarie in 1961. Gaga revealed her personal connection to French culture and music, noting her desire to create a performance that celebrated French art and warmed the hearts of the French people.</p>

<p>"Although I am not a French artist, I have always felt a very special connection with French people and singing French music," she wrote. "I wanted nothing more than to create a performance that would warm the heart of France, celebrate French art and music, and on such a momentous occasion remind everyone of one of the most magical cities on earth – Paris."</p>

<p>Gaga also shared details of her preparation for the performance, including studying French choreography and rehearsing tirelessly. "I bet you didn’t know I used to dance at a '60s French party on the Lower East Side when I was first starting out!" she added.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/paris-olympics-2024-south-korea-wrongly-introduced-as-north-korea-744746">Paris Olympics 2024: South Korea wrongly introduced as North Korea</a></strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/paris-olympics-2024-south-korea-wrongly-introduced-as-north-korea-744746/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>She concluded her message by congratulating the athletes and expressing her honour in performing for them. "Congratulations to all the athletes who are competing in this year’s Olympic Games! It is my supreme honour to sing for you and cheer you on!! Watching the Olympic Games always makes me cry! Your talent is unimaginable. Let the games begin!"</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I feel so completely grateful to have been asked to open the Paris <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Olympics</a> 2024 this year. I am also humbled to be asked by the Olympics organizing committee to sing such a special French song—a song to honor the French people and their tremendous history of art, music, and… <a href="https://t.co/FMNyiosHUR">pic.twitter.com/FMNyiosHUR</a></p>
— Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) <a href="https://twitter.com/ladygaga/status/1816903201020583980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>The ceremony also featured an emotional performance by Celine Dion, marking her first public appearance since announcing her diagnosis with stiff-person syndrome (SPS) nearly two years ago.</p>


Last night’s Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony was a marvellous event as it featured performances from music icons like Celine Dion and Lady Gaga. However, not everything went according to plan for the latter.

Last night’s Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony was a marvellous event as it featured performances from music icons like Celine Dion and Lady Gaga. However, not everything went according to plan for the latter. Lady Gaga, 38, took to a specially constructed stage on the Seine River to deliver a breathtaking performance of the French classic "Mon Truc en Plume." Decked out in a black leotard with a large feathered pom-pom, she and her ten dancers, all wearing custom Dior costumes, performed to the T at the fast-paced number. The vibrant choreography, featuring rented pom poms from the Le Lido archive, brought a modern twist to the traditional French cabaret style. Despite the energy and excitement, the performance faced a major hiccup. Due to the rain earlier in the day, the stage was slippery, causing one of the dancers to lose his footing and fall off-stage. His pink pom poms dropped out of sight as he fell backwards, landing behind a speaker. Impressively, the dancer quickly recovered, leaping back to his feet and rejoining the performance as Lady Gaga continued her routine without missing a beat. Lady Gaga's dancer falls off stage at Olympics opening ceremonyhttps://t.co/u0NvY2lELx — Bintano (@bintanonews) July 27, 2024 Lady Gaga did not address the incident directly but expressed her gratitude and pride in a post-performance message on social media. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), she wrote, "I feel so completely grateful to have been asked to open the Paris @Olympics 2024 this year. I am also humbled to be asked by the Olympics organizing committee to sing such a special French song – a song to honour the French people and their tremendous history of art, music, and theatre." Also read: Beyoncé cheers for team USA at 2024 Olympics in true 'Cowboy Carter' style: Watch She elaborated on the significance of the song "Mon Truc en Plume," originally sung by the French ballerina Zizi Jeanmarie in 1961. Gaga revealed her personal connection to French culture and music, noting her desire to create a performance that celebrated French art and warmed the hearts of the French people. "Although I am not a French artist, I have always felt a very special connection with French people and singing French music," she wrote. "I wanted nothing more than to create a performance that would warm the heart of France, celebrate French art and music, and on such a momentous occasion remind everyone of one of the most magical cities on earth – Paris." Gaga also shared details of her preparation for the performance, including studying French choreography and rehearsing tirelessly. "I bet you didn’t know I used to dance at a '60s French party on the Lower East Side when I was first starting out!" she added. Also watch: Paris Olympics 2024: South Korea wrongly introduced as North Korea She concluded her message by congratulating the athletes and expressing her honour in performing for them. "Congratulations to all the athletes who are competing in this year’s Olympic Games! It is my supreme honour to sing for you and cheer you on!! Watching the Olympic Games always makes me cry! Your talent is unimaginable. Let the games begin!" I feel so completely grateful to have been asked to open the Paris @Olympics 2024 this year. I am also humbled to be asked by the Olympics organizing committee to sing such a special French song—a song to honor the French people and their tremendous history of art, music, and… pic.twitter.com/FMNyiosHUR — Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) July 26, 2024 The ceremony also featured an emotional performance by Celine Dion, marking her first public appearance since announcing her diagnosis with stiff-person syndrome (SPS) nearly two years ago.

Dancer falls off-stage during Lady Gaga's Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony performance

Dazzling performance, star spotting and drag act: Inside Summer Olympics opening ceremony

<p>The Olympic&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;competition suffered another blow as women's third seed Elena Rybakina joined a lengthy list of non-starters hours after the draw took place at Roland Garros on Thursday. The big-serving 25-year-old Kazakh was down to face Romania's Jaqueline Cristian in the first round of the singles. Organisers confirmed she had pulled out and would also not compete in the mixed doubles alongside compatriot Alexander Bublik. No reason was stated for her decision.</p>

<p>Rybakina's withdrawal means that France's Caroline Garcia moves into her spot in the draw as the 17th seed while Australia's Daria Saville enters the draw as an alternate. With the action to begin on Saturday, the flurry of high-profile withdrawals has cast something of a cloud over the tournament being staged on the famous Parisian clay.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, men's world number one and top seed Jannik Sinner of Italy had to withdraw from the singles and doubles because of illness while exciting Danish youngster Holger Rune also pulled out on Wednesday with a wrist injury.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-and-novak-djokovic-might-face-off-in-potential-second-round-clash-at-paris-olympics-2024-744083">Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic might face off in potential second-round clash at Paris Olympics 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>Czech player Marketa Vondrousova, who was runner-up in the singles in Tokyo three years ago, withdrew on Monday because of injury, as did Poland's Hubert Hurkacz because of a knee injury sustained at Wimbledon. Switzerland's Belinda Bencic, the champion in Tokyo, is also missing after giving birth to a daughter in April.</p>

<p>Two-time Olympic singles champion Andy Murray announced before Thursday's draw that he was not fit enough to compete in the singles but would still play doubles with Dan Evans.</p>

<p>Other notable absences from the&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;at the Games include world number three Aryna Sabalenka, Tunsia's Ons Jabeur, Britain's Emma Raducanu, American Ben Shelton and Tokyo men's bronze medal winner Pablo Carreno Busta of Spain.</p>


The Olympic tennis competition suffered another blow as women's third seed Elena Rybakina joined a lengthy list of non-starters hours after the draw took place at Roland Garros on Thursday.

The Olympic tennis competition suffered another blow as women's third seed Elena Rybakina joined a lengthy list of non-starters hours after the draw took place at Roland Garros on Thursday. The big-serving 25-year-old Kazakh was down to face Romania's Jaqueline Cristian in the first round of the singles. Organisers confirmed she had pulled out and would also not compete in the mixed doubles alongside compatriot Alexander Bublik. No reason was stated for her decision. Rybakina's withdrawal means that France's Caroline Garcia moves into her spot in the draw as the 17th seed while Australia's Daria Saville enters the draw as an alternate. With the action to begin on Saturday, the flurry of high-profile withdrawals has cast something of a cloud over the tournament being staged on the famous Parisian clay. On Wednesday, men's world number one and top seed Jannik Sinner of Italy had to withdraw from the singles and doubles because of illness while exciting Danish youngster Holger Rune also pulled out on Wednesday with a wrist injury. Also read: Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic might face off in potential second-round clash at Paris Olympics 2024 Czech player Marketa Vondrousova, who was runner-up in the singles in Tokyo three years ago, withdrew on Monday because of injury, as did Poland's Hubert Hurkacz because of a knee injury sustained at Wimbledon. Switzerland's Belinda Bencic, the champion in Tokyo, is also missing after giving birth to a daughter in April. Two-time Olympic singles champion Andy Murray announced before Thursday's draw that he was not fit enough to compete in the singles but would still play doubles with Dan Evans. Other notable absences from the tennis at the Games include world number three Aryna Sabalenka, Tunsia's Ons Jabeur, Britain's Emma Raducanu, American Ben Shelton and Tokyo men's bronze medal winner Pablo Carreno Busta of Spain.

Paris Olympics 2024: Elena Rybakina withdraws from both singles and mixed events, reason unknown

<p>Superstar Spanish duo Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have played down medal expectations in the forthcoming Paris Olympics 2024 edition, which kicks off on Friday (July 26). The two will partner each other in the doubles event, which has become a huge talking point. While there are high expectations, they have reasoned out to not expect much given the two have not played doubles a lot in recent past.</p>

<h2><strong>'Carlos hasn't played many doubles,&nbsp;I haven't played many doubles or&nbsp;singles lately'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to the reporters, on Wednesday (July 24), the 38-year-old Nadal said, "I understand a little bit the morbid illusion of seeing us play together but let's not think that this translates into success, I think it's a mistake. Carlos hasn't played many doubles and I haven't played many doubles or many singles lately."</p>

<p>"We are going to do our best to try, at least, to leave with the peace of mind of having done everything possible to get where we can get (but) obviously, we have not been able to prepare together for a tournament like this, where there are other doubles teams that have been preparing," he added.</p>

<p>The Spaniard further said, "Things happen much faster, the reflexes have to be ready and the movements are not automatic when one has not played for a long time, there are doubles movements that are completely different from the individual ones."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-paris-olympics-2024-world-number-1-jannik-sinner-out-of-games-with-tonsillitis-743891">Paris Olympics 2024: World number 1 Jannik Sinner out of Games with tonsillitis</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Alcaraz -- who is coming off a win in French Open and Wimbledon -- pointed out, "I have not had the opportunity to play many doubles tournaments, but obviously having the illusion of returning to Roland Garros, to these courts that I have always enjoyed playing... makes it easier."</p>

<p>He concluded, "We also have days of training, individually and doubles to adapt as best as possible again, for my part to return to clay and be able to gain confidence to start the tournament in the best possible way."</p>

<p>Nadal's career has gone downhill due to plethora of injury concerns since 2022. Alcaraz, on the other hand, is in prime form. It will be interesting to see how the two gel on court and how far they can go in the doubles event. Spanish fans are certainly hoping for gold from this dream pair in the doubles.</p>

<p>Notably, the Olympic tennis competition will commence on July 27 and will go on till Aug&nbsp;4.</p>


Superstar Spanish duo Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have played down medal expectations in the forthcoming Paris Olympics 2024 edition, which kicks off on Friday (July 26).

Superstar Spanish duo Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have played down medal expectations in the forthcoming Paris Olympics 2024 edition, which kicks off on Friday (July 26). The two will partner each other in the doubles event, which has become a huge talking point. While there are high expectations, they have reasoned out to not expect much given the two have not played doubles a lot in recent past. 'Carlos hasn't played many doubles, I haven't played many doubles or singles lately' Speaking to the reporters, on Wednesday (July 24), the 38-year-old Nadal said, "I understand a little bit the morbid illusion of seeing us play together but let's not think that this translates into success, I think it's a mistake. Carlos hasn't played many doubles and I haven't played many doubles or many singles lately." "We are going to do our best to try, at least, to leave with the peace of mind of having done everything possible to get where we can get (but) obviously, we have not been able to prepare together for a tournament like this, where there are other doubles teams that have been preparing," he added. The Spaniard further said, "Things happen much faster, the reflexes have to be ready and the movements are not automatic when one has not played for a long time, there are doubles movements that are completely different from the individual ones." Also read: Paris Olympics 2024: World number 1 Jannik Sinner out of Games with tonsillitis Meanwhile, Alcaraz -- who is coming off a win in French Open and Wimbledon -- pointed out, "I have not had the opportunity to play many doubles tournaments, but obviously having the illusion of returning to Roland Garros, to these courts that I have always enjoyed playing... makes it easier." He concluded, "We also have days of training, individually and doubles to adapt as best as possible again, for my part to return to clay and be able to gain confidence to start the tournament in the best possible way." Nadal's career has gone downhill due to plethora of injury concerns since 2022. Alcaraz, on the other hand, is in prime form. It will be interesting to see how the two gel on court and how far they can go in the doubles event. Spanish fans are certainly hoping for gold from this dream pair in the doubles. Notably, the Olympic tennis competition will commence on July 27 and will go on till Aug 4.

Paris Olympics 2024: 'Think it's a mistake' - Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz downplay medal expectations

The Paris Olympics begins with an unprecedented opening ceremony along the river Seine on July 26. India's Chef-de-mission for the Paris games and 2012 London Olympics bronze medalist Gagan Narang spoke to WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo ahead of the start of the 33rd Summer Games.

Paris Olympics 2024: India's Chef-de-mission Gagan Narang speaks to WION

<p>Looks like Indian film star Chiranjeevi and his family are all set to attend the opening ceremony of the Olympics 2024 in Paris. The Telugu star shared a photo of his family on social media, enjoying a 'serene moment' in London.<br />
<br />
Chiranjeevi shared a picture on X showing him pushing his granddaughter Klin Kaara’s pram. His wife Surekha, son Ram Charan, and daughter-in-law Upasana also walk alongside him. Chiranjeevi revealed that the picture was taken at Hyde Park in London.<br />
<br />
He wrote, “Relishing a serene moment with family and the grand little one Klin Kaara at Hyde Park London, en route our journey to Paris tomorrow! Summer Olympics 24 Inaugural Event Beckons :)"&nbsp;</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Relishing a serene moment with family and the grand little one Klin Kaara at Hyde Park London, en route our journey to Paris tomorrow!<br />
<br />
Summer Olympics 24 Inaugural Event Beckons :) <a href="https://t.co/bFa31zBh3a">pic.twitter.com/bFa31zBh3a</a></p>
— Chiranjeevi Konidela (@KChiruTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/KChiruTweets/status/1816082625125298598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Fans heaped praises on the superstar's family. One user wrote, “Charan looks so schway!” While another wrote, “Klin Kaara the lucky one.” One person wrote, “Nice weather down in Paris too,” while another commented with thumbs-up emojis and “Olympics Inaugural event.”<br />
<br />
Ram Charan recently shared a sweet birthday wish for his wife Upasana on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sara-ali-khan-gets-angry-at-airhostess-in-a-plane-watch-viral-video-743975">Sara Ali Khan gets angry at air hostess in a plane; watch viral video</a><br />
<br />
Sharing an adorable selfie of them together, he wrote, “Happy birthday kaara mummy!!” In return, Upasana thanked him and praised his selfie skills writing, “Thank you Mr C. Ur selfie skills are (ok hand and smiling face with hearts emojis).”</p>

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<p>Upasana celebrated her 35th birthday on July 21. The entrepreneur was wished by Namrata Shirodkar and actor Lavanya Tripathi among others.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
On the work front, Chiranjeevi will soon be seen in Malladi Vassishta’s Vishwambhara, which co-stars Trisha Krishnan. The film also stars Kunal Kapoor in a key role and will be released in January next year. Chiranjeevi's hit film Indra (2002) will also re-release in theatres on August 22 on his birthday.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Ram Charan will be working with filmmaker Shankar in Game Changer which also stars Kiara Advani and SJ Suryah. The film will be released in December. He also has a film with Janhvi Kapoor in the pipeline.&nbsp;</p>


Looks like Indian film star Chiranjeevi and his family are all set to attend the opening ceremony of the Olympics 2024 in Paris. The Telugu star shared a photo of his family on social media, enjoying a 'serene moment' in London.

Looks like Indian film star Chiranjeevi and his family are all set to attend the opening ceremony of the Olympics 2024 in Paris. The Telugu star shared a photo of his family on social media, enjoying a 'serene moment' in London. Chiranjeevi shared a picture on X showing him pushing his granddaughter Klin Kaara’s pram. His wife Surekha, son Ram Charan, and daughter-in-law Upasana also walk alongside him. Chiranjeevi revealed that the picture was taken at Hyde Park in London. He wrote, “Relishing a serene moment with family and the grand little one Klin Kaara at Hyde Park London, en route our journey to Paris tomorrow! Summer Olympics 24 Inaugural Event Beckons :)" Relishing a serene moment with family and the grand little one Klin Kaara at Hyde Park London, en route our journey to Paris tomorrow! Summer Olympics 24 Inaugural Event Beckons :) pic.twitter.com/bFa31zBh3a — Chiranjeevi Konidela (@KChiruTweets) July 24, 2024 × Fans heaped praises on the superstar's family. One user wrote, “Charan looks so schway!” While another wrote, “Klin Kaara the lucky one.” One person wrote, “Nice weather down in Paris too,” while another commented with thumbs-up emojis and “Olympics Inaugural event.” Ram Charan recently shared a sweet birthday wish for his wife Upasana on social media. Also read: Sara Ali Khan gets angry at air hostess in a plane; watch viral video Sharing an adorable selfie of them together, he wrote, “Happy birthday kaara mummy!!” In return, Upasana thanked him and praised his selfie skills writing, “Thank you Mr C. Ur selfie skills are (ok hand and smiling face with hearts emojis).” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ram Charan (@alwaysramcharan) × Upasana celebrated her 35th birthday on July 21. The entrepreneur was wished by Namrata Shirodkar and actor Lavanya Tripathi among others. On the work front, Chiranjeevi will soon be seen in Malladi Vassishta’s Vishwambhara, which co-stars Trisha Krishnan. The film also stars Kunal Kapoor in a key role and will be released in January next year. Chiranjeevi's hit film Indra (2002) will also re-release in theatres on August 22 on his birthday. Meanwhile, Ram Charan will be working with filmmaker Shankar in Game Changer which also stars Kiara Advani and SJ Suryah. The film will be released in December. He also has a film with Janhvi Kapoor in the pipeline.

Chiranjeevi, Ram Charan and family to attend Olympics 2024 inauguration ceremony in Paris

<p>With the Paris Olympics set to kick off on Friday (Jul&nbsp;26), Australian BMX freestyle champion Logan Martin has encountered an unfortunate incident. As he prepares&nbsp;to defend his Olympic title, Martin lost his equipment and wallet as thieves broke into the team's van in Brussels, Belgium. The Olympic medallist has described the incident as a&nbsp;"crazy start" to his title defence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;24), Martin shared videos on Instagram showcasing&nbsp;the van's passenger side window smashed whereas&nbsp;police officers were also seen talking with a member of the Australian team to enquire more about the mishap.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'What a crazy start'</strong></h2>

<p>Martin wrote on his Instagram post, "Our van got broken into last night. Luckily my bikes weren't in there, although my bike bags were in there with some things in it. What a crazy start to the trip. Our van got broken into overnight. Luckily most of our stuff was in our room and we managed to recover a lot of it too. I lost my wallet, backpack and a few other things but overall it didn’t end up being too bad. It’s unfortunate when people feel the need to do things like this."</p>

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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-archers-schedule-on-eve-of-opening-ceremony-743981">Paris Olympics: All you need to know about Indian archers' schedule on eve of opening ceremony</a></strong></p>

<p>Martin and his teammates, however,&nbsp;later found some of their stolen bags near a bench courtesy of&nbsp;the identification tags on them. Nonetheless, the culprits had completely trashed the contents kept inside the bag as the Aussie champion&nbsp;would find his gloves as well as other equipments&nbsp;on the ground near the bench.</p>

<p>The incident is a big setback for Martin and his team ahead of the showpiece event. Notably, the BMX cycling event will commence&nbsp;with the quarterfinals on Aug&nbsp;1 and conclude on&nbsp;Aug&nbsp;3. BMX freestyle came into the picture in the Games for the first time in Tokyo 2020, where Martin created history by winning gold. The 30-year-old will be eager to replicate the same this time around.</p>


With the Paris Olympics set to kick off on Friday (Jul 26), Australian BMX freestyle champion Logan Martin has encountered an unfortunate incident. As he prepares to defend his Olympic title, Martin lost his equipment and wallet as thieves broke into the team's van in Brussels, Belgium.

With the Paris Olympics set to kick off on Friday (Jul 26), Australian BMX freestyle champion Logan Martin has encountered an unfortunate incident. As he prepares to defend his Olympic title, Martin lost his equipment and wallet as thieves broke into the team's van in Brussels, Belgium. The Olympic medallist has described the incident as a "crazy start" to his title defence. On Wednesday (Jul 24), Martin shared videos on Instagram showcasing the van's passenger side window smashed whereas police officers were also seen talking with a member of the Australian team to enquire more about the mishap. 'What a crazy start' Martin wrote on his Instagram post, "Our van got broken into last night. Luckily my bikes weren't in there, although my bike bags were in there with some things in it. What a crazy start to the trip. Our van got broken into overnight. Luckily most of our stuff was in our room and we managed to recover a lot of it too. I lost my wallet, backpack and a few other things but overall it didn’t end up being too bad. It’s unfortunate when people feel the need to do things like this." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Logan Martin OAM (@loganmartinbmx) × Also read: Paris Olympics: All you need to know about Indian archers' schedule on eve of opening ceremony Martin and his teammates, however, later found some of their stolen bags near a bench courtesy of the identification tags on them. Nonetheless, the culprits had completely trashed the contents kept inside the bag as the Aussie champion would find his gloves as well as other equipments on the ground near the bench. The incident is a big setback for Martin and his team ahead of the showpiece event. Notably, the BMX cycling event will commence with the quarterfinals on Aug 1 and conclude on Aug 3. BMX freestyle came into the picture in the Games for the first time in Tokyo 2020, where Martin created history by winning gold. The 30-year-old will be eager to replicate the same this time around.

Paris Olympics 2024: BMX champion Logan Martin's equipment and wallet gets stolen before title defence

The 2024 Olympics Paris Olympics start on the 26th of July a total of 10,500 athletes representing 206 countries are competing in this year's summer games. WION takes you through some less-known facts about the grandest sporting event in the world.

Olympics 2024: What are the less-known facts about the Olympics?

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<p>The Paris Olympics are set to make history as the first gender-equal games as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has created equal opportunities for male and female athletes, who are participating. The quota places were distributed 50:50, making the Olympic Games Paris 2024 gender equal. But the Games also face a massive challenge of adjusting all the athletes into one of two gender categories.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the new rules in regard to athletes who can compete as women have changed for the 2024 Games amid concerns about transgender athletes. Critics often say that transgender women have an unfair advantage over fellow competitors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hence, the IOC devised a framework for fairness and inclusion on the basis of gender identity and sex variations. It said that every person has the right to practise sport without discrimination and in a way that respects their health, safety and dignity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-games-why-boxers-must-be-clean-shaven-and-wrestlers-must-carry-handkerchief-743535">Olympic Games: Why boxers must be clean-shaven and wrestlers have to carry handkerchief</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>IOC said that the credibility of competitive sports relies on a level playing field, where no athlete has an unfair and disproportionate advantage over the rest. It also said that it seeks to promote a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The framework instituted by IOC focuses on ensuring fairness in the women's category. However, the governing body hasn't issued regulations that define eligibility criteria for every sport, leaving it up to federations to determine if an athlete was at a disproportionate advantage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But first, let's discuss, what makes an Olympic athlete female. As mentioned, the criteria differ from sport to sport and it's possible that a competitor who meets the qualifications to compete in track and field events does not qualify to compete as a woman in tennis. Notably, each sport's international federation has the right to make the final call on who can compete as a woman and who cannot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 10-point IOC framework moves away from the old policy that said transgender athletes would be allowed to compete provided their testosterone levels were below 10 nanomoles per litre for at least 12 months before their first competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2024-paris-olympics-know-why-running-track-has-been-painted-purple-743188" target="_blank">2024 Paris Olympics: Know why running track has been painted purple</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Laurel Hubbard's case at 2021 Games</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>New Zealand weightlifter Laurel Hubbard in Tokyo became the first transgender athlete to compete at the Olympic Games. A case that sparked controversy, with some calling it a step forward for trans athletes and some saying that she had an unfair advantage. Now, the rules have changed and she won't be able to participate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The eligibility in some sporting events depends on exactly when the transition must have occurred for participants. For example, in order to compete in weightlifting, swimming and track and field, athletes must not have advanced in male puberty past Tanner Stage 2 (the stage where testicles and penis begin to expand and pubic hair develops) or past the age of 12, whichever comes first. In 2022, FINA (now World Aquatics), the International Swimming Federation, said it would only allow trans swimmers who transitioned before the age of 12 to compete.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the criteria are not the same as other sports as some keep testosterone levels in consideration. In tennis, transgender women need to have testosterone levels below five nanomoles per litre for the preceding 12 months. Transgender athletes competing in the female division for the triathlon and archery must have levels less than 2.5 nanomoles per litre over a period of 24 months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: What are the less-known facts about the Olympics?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Some sports, including World Rugby and the World Boxing Council, have entirely banned transgender women. World Rugby said in a report, "Transgender men may play men's rugby having provided confirmation of physical ability. Transgender men may not play women's rugby after the process of sex reassignment has begun if this reassignment includes supplementation with testosterone."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, women who identify as women and were assigned the gender of a woman at birth yet have naturally high testosterone levels, face additional restrictions. High testosterone levels in females are frequently the consequence of a disorder classified as a difference in sex development, or DSD.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Are there any transgender athletes at 2024 Olympics?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>US runner Nikki Hiltz, who is transgender and non-binary, was assigned female at birth, won the 1500-meter race at the US Olympic Trials and qualified for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hiltz uses the pronouns "they/them" and often faces public scrutiny. In a July 6, 2024, post on Instagram, Hiltz said, "I felt exhausted from explaining what nonbinary meant to the track and field community over and over again. Headlines would read 'trans runner Nikki Hiltz..' and automatically I was assumed either someone assigned male at birth or a trans man who was taking testosterone."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The Paris Olympics are set to make history as the first gender-equal games as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has created equal opportunities for male and female athletes, who are participating.

The Paris Olympics are set to make history as the first gender-equal games as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has created equal opportunities for male and female athletes, who are participating. The quota places were distributed 50:50, making the Olympic Games Paris 2024 gender equal. But the Games also face a massive challenge of adjusting all the athletes into one of two gender categories. However, the new rules in regard to athletes who can compete as women have changed for the 2024 Games amid concerns about transgender athletes. Critics often say that transgender women have an unfair advantage over fellow competitors. Hence, the IOC devised a framework for fairness and inclusion on the basis of gender identity and sex variations. It said that every person has the right to practise sport without discrimination and in a way that respects their health, safety and dignity. Also read: Olympic Games: Why boxers must be clean-shaven and wrestlers have to carry handkerchief IOC said that the credibility of competitive sports relies on a level playing field, where no athlete has an unfair and disproportionate advantage over the rest. It also said that it seeks to promote a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. The framework instituted by IOC focuses on ensuring fairness in the women's category. However, the governing body hasn't issued regulations that define eligibility criteria for every sport, leaving it up to federations to determine if an athlete was at a disproportionate advantage. But first, let's discuss, what makes an Olympic athlete female. As mentioned, the criteria differ from sport to sport and it's possible that a competitor who meets the qualifications to compete in track and field events does not qualify to compete as a woman in tennis. Notably, each sport's international federation has the right to make the final call on who can compete as a woman and who cannot. The 10-point IOC framework moves away from the old policy that said transgender athletes would be allowed to compete provided their testosterone levels were below 10 nanomoles per litre for at least 12 months before their first competition. Also read: 2024 Paris Olympics: Know why running track has been painted purple Laurel Hubbard's case at 2021 Games New Zealand weightlifter Laurel Hubbard in Tokyo became the first transgender athlete to compete at the Olympic Games. A case that sparked controversy, with some calling it a step forward for trans athletes and some saying that she had an unfair advantage. Now, the rules have changed and she won't be able to participate. The eligibility in some sporting events depends on exactly when the transition must have occurred for participants. For example, in order to compete in weightlifting, swimming and track and field, athletes must not have advanced in male puberty past Tanner Stage 2 (the stage where testicles and penis begin to expand and pubic hair develops) or past the age of 12, whichever comes first. In 2022, FINA (now World Aquatics), the International Swimming Federation, said it would only allow trans swimmers who transitioned before the age of 12 to compete. However, the criteria are not the same as other sports as some keep testosterone levels in consideration. In tennis, transgender women need to have testosterone levels below five nanomoles per litre for the preceding 12 months. Transgender athletes competing in the female division for the triathlon and archery must have levels less than 2.5 nanomoles per litre over a period of 24 months. Watch: What are the less-known facts about the Olympics? × Some sports, including World Rugby and the World Boxing Council, have entirely banned transgender women. World Rugby said in a report, "Transgender men may play men's rugby having provided confirmation of physical ability. Transgender men may not play women's rugby after the process of sex reassignment has begun if this reassignment includes supplementation with testosterone." Notably, women who identify as women and were assigned the gender of a woman at birth yet have naturally high testosterone levels, face additional restrictions. High testosterone levels in females are frequently the consequence of a disorder classified as a difference in sex development, or DSD. Are there any transgender athletes at 2024 Olympics? US runner Nikki Hiltz, who is transgender and non-binary, was assigned female at birth, won the 1500-meter race at the US Olympic Trials and qualified for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Hiltz uses the pronouns "they/them" and often faces public scrutiny. In a July 6, 2024, post on Instagram, Hiltz said, "I felt exhausted from explaining what nonbinary meant to the track and field community over and over again. Headlines would read 'trans runner Nikki Hiltz..' and automatically I was assumed either someone assigned male at birth or a trans man who was taking testosterone." (With inputs from agencies)

Explainer: The rules for transgender athletes at 2024 Paris Olympics

PR Sreejesh has announced that the Paris Olympics will be his last tournament with the Indian Men's hockey team. The 36-year-old played a key role as India won the bronze medal at Tokyo 2020. Sreejesh and Manpreet Singh spoke to WION Sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo to reflect on that campaign and also look ahead to Paris 2024.

Paris Olympics 2024: Sreejesh to retire after the Olympics in Paris

<p>The International Olympic Committee was Tuesday weighing a Palestinian call for Israeli athletes to be barred from the Games over the war in Gaza, three days before the Opening Ceremony in Paris.</p>

<p>As the Israeli Olympic team settled into the Athletes' Village, the IOC was studying a letter sent by the Palestine Olympic Committee to President Thomas Bach asking him to ban the Israelis, citing the bombings of the besieged Gaza Strip as a breach of the Olympic truce.</p>

<p>The letter sent on Monday "emphasised that Palestinian athletes, particularly those in Gaza, are denied safe passage and have suffered significantly due to the ongoing conflict".</p>

<p>It said, "approximately 400 Palestinian athletes have been killed, and the destruction of sports facilities exacerbates the plight of athletes who are already under severe restrictions".</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-neeraj-chopra-at-paris-olympics-2024-all-you-need-to-know-about-india-javelin-stars-schedule-in-mega-event-743517">Neeraj Chopra at Paris Olympics 2024: All you need to know about Indian javelin star's schedule at mega event</a></p>

<p>The IOC is likely to reject the Palestinian call but it highlights how the rising death toll and growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza is impacting the Paris Games.</p>

<p>The war broke out after the October 7 attack on southern Israel that resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.</p>

<p>Israel's retaliatory military offensive has killed at least 37,124 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the territory's health ministry.</p>

<p>France's foreign minister has already had to intervene to stress that Israeli athletes are welcome at the Games after far-left French politicians called for them to be barred over the Gaza offensive.</p>

<h2><strong>- 'Best Athletes' Village' -</strong></h2>

<p>Competitors were flooding into the Olympic Village to take up residence in the compound in northern Paris, with national flags hanging from many windows.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some of the biggest names set to perform at the Olympics -- gymnast Simone Biles and Spanish tennis pair Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz -- have been spotted at the village.</p>

<p>Reviews of the food and accommodation were broadly positive but some people reported issues with the transport to and from sports venues.</p>

<p>"Usually at Olympics, the transport takes a bit of time to work out," Tom Craig, a player in the Australian hockey team, told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We've heard about some teams getting taken to the wrong venue, but it hasn't happened to us. One day we got a bit lost but it was fine."</p>

<p>American gymnastics coach Sam Mikulak, a veteran of four Olympics, praised the village as the best he had seen. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ten out of 10. It's the best set up, the best conditioning space (gym), very organised," he told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Craig also praised the cardboard beds, which were chosen for environmental reasons.</p>

<p>Some reports have wrongly described them as being intended to deter athletes from jumping under the sheets together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They're very comfortable. You don't know you're sleeping on cardboard," he said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Britain's joint most decorated woman Olympian, dressage specialist Charlotte Dujardin, withdrew from the Games after a video emerged showing her making "an error of judgement" during a coaching session.</p>

<p>It was not immediately clear what three-time Olympic champion Dujardin had done but Olympic and equestrian authorities have taken an increasingly strict line against alleged improprieties relating to the treatment of animals in recent years.</p>

<p>During the delayed Tokyo Olympics in 2021, a German modern pentathlon coach was thrown out the Games for striking a horse.</p>

<p>In other developments, as organisers put the final touches to the plans for Friday's Olympics opening ceremony on the Seine, videos posted online showing US pop star Lady Gaga in Paris sparked rumours that she will be among the performers.</p>

<p>The line-up for the ceremony, which marks the first time a Summer Olympics has opened outside of the main stadium, is yet to be fully announced.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience</em></p>


The International Olympic Committee was Tuesday weighing a Palestinian call for Israeli athletes to be barred from the Games over the war in Gaza, three days before the Opening Ceremony in Paris.

The International Olympic Committee was Tuesday weighing a Palestinian call for Israeli athletes to be barred from the Games over the war in Gaza, three days before the Opening Ceremony in Paris. As the Israeli Olympic team settled into the Athletes' Village, the IOC was studying a letter sent by the Palestine Olympic Committee to President Thomas Bach asking him to ban the Israelis, citing the bombings of the besieged Gaza Strip as a breach of the Olympic truce. The letter sent on Monday "emphasised that Palestinian athletes, particularly those in Gaza, are denied safe passage and have suffered significantly due to the ongoing conflict". It said, "approximately 400 Palestinian athletes have been killed, and the destruction of sports facilities exacerbates the plight of athletes who are already under severe restrictions". Also Read: Neeraj Chopra at Paris Olympics 2024: All you need to know about Indian javelin star's schedule at mega event The IOC is likely to reject the Palestinian call but it highlights how the rising death toll and growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza is impacting the Paris Games. The war broke out after the October 7 attack on southern Israel that resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures. Israel's retaliatory military offensive has killed at least 37,124 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the territory's health ministry. France's foreign minister has already had to intervene to stress that Israeli athletes are welcome at the Games after far-left French politicians called for them to be barred over the Gaza offensive. - 'Best Athletes' Village' - Competitors were flooding into the Olympic Village to take up residence in the compound in northern Paris, with national flags hanging from many windows. Some of the biggest names set to perform at the Olympics -- gymnast Simone Biles and Spanish tennis pair Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz -- have been spotted at the village. Reviews of the food and accommodation were broadly positive but some people reported issues with the transport to and from sports venues. "Usually at Olympics, the transport takes a bit of time to work out," Tom Craig, a player in the Australian hockey team, told AFP. "We've heard about some teams getting taken to the wrong venue, but it hasn't happened to us. One day we got a bit lost but it was fine." American gymnastics coach Sam Mikulak, a veteran of four Olympics, praised the village as the best he had seen. "Ten out of 10. It's the best set up, the best conditioning space (gym), very organised," he told AFP. Craig also praised the cardboard beds, which were chosen for environmental reasons. Some reports have wrongly described them as being intended to deter athletes from jumping under the sheets together. "They're very comfortable. You don't know you're sleeping on cardboard," he said. Meanwhile, Britain's joint most decorated woman Olympian, dressage specialist Charlotte Dujardin, withdrew from the Games after a video emerged showing her making "an error of judgement" during a coaching session. It was not immediately clear what three-time Olympic champion Dujardin had done but Olympic and equestrian authorities have taken an increasingly strict line against alleged improprieties relating to the treatment of animals in recent years. During the delayed Tokyo Olympics in 2021, a German modern pentathlon coach was thrown out the Games for striking a horse. In other developments, as organisers put the final touches to the plans for Friday's Olympics opening ceremony on the Seine, videos posted online showing US pop star Lady Gaga in Paris sparked rumours that she will be among the performers. The line-up for the ceremony, which marks the first time a Summer Olympics has opened outside of the main stadium, is yet to be fully announced. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

Paris Olympics 2024: IOC reviews Palestinian letter to ban Israeli athletes from Summer Games

<p>Video of Lady Gaga in Paris just days before the start of the Olympic Games has sparked rumours that the US pop star could feature in Friday's opening ceremony. The 38-year-old was seen arriving at a hotel in the French capital in videos posted on social media.</p>

<p>The music for the opening ceremony, to be held along the Seine River rather than in the athletics stadium for the first time in the history of the Olympics, is yet to be fully announced.</p>

<p>Franco-Malian R&amp;B star Aya Nakamura is widely tipped to perform despite criticism from far-right politicians, including Marine Le Pen who suggested an appearance by her would "humiliate" France.</p>

<p>Celine Dion has also been spotted in Paris, fuelling gossip that she too could take part in either the opening or closing ceremony.</p>

<p>French electro superstars Daft Punk said they had turned down an invitation to play in the opening ceremony while globe-trotting French DJ David Guetta has been overlooked -- much to his irritation.</p>

<p>In the ceremony, around 6,000-7,000 athletes are set to sail down a six-kilometre (four-mile) stretch of the Seine River from the Austerlitz bridge in the east to the Eiffel Tower, on 85 barges and boats.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Video of Lady Gaga in Paris just days before the start of the Olympic Games has sparked rumours that the US pop star could feature in Friday's opening ceremony. The 38-year-old was seen arriving at a hotel in the French capital in videos posted on social media.

Video of Lady Gaga in Paris just days before the start of the Olympic Games has sparked rumours that the US pop star could feature in Friday's opening ceremony. The 38-year-old was seen arriving at a hotel in the French capital in videos posted on social media. The music for the opening ceremony, to be held along the Seine River rather than in the athletics stadium for the first time in the history of the Olympics, is yet to be fully announced. Franco-Malian R&B star Aya Nakamura is widely tipped to perform despite criticism from far-right politicians, including Marine Le Pen who suggested an appearance by her would "humiliate" France. Celine Dion has also been spotted in Paris, fuelling gossip that she too could take part in either the opening or closing ceremony. French electro superstars Daft Punk said they had turned down an invitation to play in the opening ceremony while globe-trotting French DJ David Guetta has been overlooked -- much to his irritation. In the ceremony, around 6,000-7,000 athletes are set to sail down a six-kilometre (four-mile) stretch of the Seine River from the Austerlitz bridge in the east to the Eiffel Tower, on 85 barges and boats. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lady Gaga spotted in Paris, sparks Olympic opening ceremony rumours

<p>France is all set for the start of the 2024 Paris Olympics, which will be held from July 26 to August 11, while the Paralympics will run from August 28 to September 8. The Games have returned to the French capital for the first time since 1924. Before the mega event starts, let's look at some of the weird but necessary rules athletes must follow.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2024-paris-olympics-know-why-running-track-has-been-painted-purple-743188">2024 Paris Olympics: Know why running track has been painted purple</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Wrestling:</strong> Olympian wrestlers are required to wear a single-piece singlet that covers their entire body, starting at the mid-thigh. They can't wear bandages on the wrists, arms or ankles, except in case of an injury. They are also not allowed to wear jewellery items such as rings, bracelets, earrings. They must be moisture-free and should not apply any greasy or sticky substances to the body. Olympic wrestlers also must carry a handkerchief in their uniform to clean up any bleeding during the competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Gymnasts:</strong> Gymnasts are often restricted from wearing V-neck uniforms. They are required to wear crew neck or similar styles. They can also wear nail polish but in subtle colours. There aren't any regulations when it comes to makeup. The official rules state that female gymnasts must wear a "proper sports non-transparent leotard or unitard" that is "elegant in design". The neckline must be "appropriate" and must extend below the midpoint of the sternum or lower than the shoulder blades. They can't wear jewellery besides small stud earrings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-japan-withdraws-gymnast-shoko-miyata-from-summer-games-for-smoking-743178" target="_blank">Paris Olympics 2024: Japan withdraws gymnast Shoko Miyata from Summer Games for smoking</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Water Polo:</strong> Excessive force, including groin grabbing, is strictly prohibited in water polo. The fingernails and toenails of athletes are checked by officials prior to each match. The players are not allowed to grease themselves up with any oil before the competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Karate:</strong> Karate is a Japanese martial art that uses striking techniques with hands, knees, feet and elbows. It also includes blocking and grappling, to develop physical and mental discipline. The players must clean their hair only during the competition as karate referees have the authority to disqualify an athlete if they judge their hair to be insufficiently clean.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: India's Sreejesh reflects on Tokyo 2020 bronze medal</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Beach Volleyball: </strong>In beach volleyball, male athletes may wear shorts no longer than 3.9 inches above the knee, while female athletes must wear uniforms no longer than a specific length. Bikini bottoms cannot be longer than 7 cm on the sides.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


France is all set for the start of the 2024 Paris Olympics, which will be held from July 26 to August 11, while the Paralympics will run from August 28 to September 8.

France is all set for the start of the 2024 Paris Olympics, which will be held from July 26 to August 11, while the Paralympics will run from August 28 to September 8. The Games have returned to the French capital for the first time since 1924. Before the mega event starts, let's look at some of the weird but necessary rules athletes must follow. Also read: 2024 Paris Olympics: Know why running track has been painted purple Wrestling: Olympian wrestlers are required to wear a single-piece singlet that covers their entire body, starting at the mid-thigh. They can't wear bandages on the wrists, arms or ankles, except in case of an injury. They are also not allowed to wear jewellery items such as rings, bracelets, earrings. They must be moisture-free and should not apply any greasy or sticky substances to the body. Olympic wrestlers also must carry a handkerchief in their uniform to clean up any bleeding during the competition. Gymnasts: Gymnasts are often restricted from wearing V-neck uniforms. They are required to wear crew neck or similar styles. They can also wear nail polish but in subtle colours. There aren't any regulations when it comes to makeup. The official rules state that female gymnasts must wear a "proper sports non-transparent leotard or unitard" that is "elegant in design". The neckline must be "appropriate" and must extend below the midpoint of the sternum or lower than the shoulder blades. They can't wear jewellery besides small stud earrings. Also read: Paris Olympics 2024: Japan withdraws gymnast Shoko Miyata from Summer Games for smoking Water Polo: Excessive force, including groin grabbing, is strictly prohibited in water polo. The fingernails and toenails of athletes are checked by officials prior to each match. The players are not allowed to grease themselves up with any oil before the competition. Karate: Karate is a Japanese martial art that uses striking techniques with hands, knees, feet and elbows. It also includes blocking and grappling, to develop physical and mental discipline. The players must clean their hair only during the competition as karate referees have the authority to disqualify an athlete if they judge their hair to be insufficiently clean. Watch: India's Sreejesh reflects on Tokyo 2020 bronze medal × Beach Volleyball: In beach volleyball, male athletes may wear shorts no longer than 3.9 inches above the knee, while female athletes must wear uniforms no longer than a specific length. Bikini bottoms cannot be longer than 7 cm on the sides. (With inputs from agencies)

Olympic Games: Why boxers must be clean-shaven and wrestlers have to carry handkerchief

<p>Australia's women soccer players have arrived in Paris without some of their luggage, including key medical equipment, that has been stuck in Spain, Australia team chief Anna Meares said on Sunday.</p>

<p>The soccer team, whose first group game is in four days' time against Germany in Marseille, will now need to have some of that equipment replaced locally before the luggage is eventually shipped to France.</p>

<p>"It is still currently in Spain and we are working with Football Australia to resolve this issue," Meares told a press conference.</p>

<p>"They are still able to train and prepare, and they have their training and playing kit with them. But there are some items of personal luggage, some medical items and other equipment that is still on the ground in Spain."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-bcci-announces-1-million-contribution-for-indian-athletes-participating-in-summer-games-742850">Paris Olympics 2024: BCCI announces $1 million contribution for Indian athletes participating in Summer Games</a></strong></p>

<p>She said team officials were already replacing some of the equipment such as tape strapping, scissors and resuscitation kits, in Marseille.</p>

<p>"This luggage was meant to be on several flights yesterday (Saturday) but it did not happen. It's not ideal, but hopefully today we can make some progress and have some of the personal items and medical equipment purchased in Marseille as necessary," she said.</p>

<p>It is not the first luggage mishap to hit Team Australia ahead of the Paris Games starting on July 26. Earlier in July a container ship carrying all the Team Australia uniforms crashed into another ship near Gibraltar.</p>

<p><strong>Matlidas&nbsp;squad&nbsp;for&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;2024 Olympics&nbsp;-</strong></p>

<p><strong>Forwards:</strong> Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler, Michelle Heyman, Cortnee Vine</p>

<p><strong>Midfielders:</strong> Kyra Cooney-Cross, Katrina Gorry, Hayley Raso, Kaitlyn Torpey, Emily van Egmond (vice-captain), Clare Wheeler, Tameka Yallop</p>

<p><strong>Defenders:</strong> Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley (captain), Clare Hunt, Alanna Kennedy, Clare Polkinghorne</p>

<p><strong>Goalkeepers:</strong> Mackenzie Arnold, Teagan Micah</p>

<p><strong>Reserves:</strong> Lydia Williams, Courtney Nevin, Charlotte Grant, Sharn Freier</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Australia's women soccer players have arrived in Paris without some of their luggage, including key medical equipment, that has been stuck in Spain, Australia team chief Anna Meares said on Sunday.

Australia's women soccer players have arrived in Paris without some of their luggage, including key medical equipment, that has been stuck in Spain, Australia team chief Anna Meares said on Sunday. The soccer team, whose first group game is in four days' time against Germany in Marseille, will now need to have some of that equipment replaced locally before the luggage is eventually shipped to France. "It is still currently in Spain and we are working with Football Australia to resolve this issue," Meares told a press conference. "They are still able to train and prepare, and they have their training and playing kit with them. But there are some items of personal luggage, some medical items and other equipment that is still on the ground in Spain." ALSO READ: Paris Olympics 2024: BCCI announces $1 million contribution for Indian athletes participating in Summer Games She said team officials were already replacing some of the equipment such as tape strapping, scissors and resuscitation kits, in Marseille. "This luggage was meant to be on several flights yesterday (Saturday) but it did not happen. It's not ideal, but hopefully today we can make some progress and have some of the personal items and medical equipment purchased in Marseille as necessary," she said. It is not the first luggage mishap to hit Team Australia ahead of the Paris Games starting on July 26. Earlier in July a container ship carrying all the Team Australia uniforms crashed into another ship near Gibraltar. Matlidas squad for Paris 2024 Olympics - Forwards: Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler, Michelle Heyman, Cortnee Vine Midfielders: Kyra Cooney-Cross, Katrina Gorry, Hayley Raso, Kaitlyn Torpey, Emily van Egmond (vice-captain), Clare Wheeler, Tameka Yallop Defenders: Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley (captain), Clare Hunt, Alanna Kennedy, Clare Polkinghorne Goalkeepers: Mackenzie Arnold, Teagan Micah Reserves: Lydia Williams, Courtney Nevin, Charlotte Grant, Sharn Freier Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Olympics 2024: Australia’s women soccer team arrives in Paris without luggage, medical equipment

<p>Rafael Nadal continued his Olympic preparations with a confident 6-4, 6-4 win over Cameron Norrie at the Bastad Open on Thursday, showing signs of the power hitting that fired him to 14 French Open titles.</p>

<p>The 38-year-old Spaniard continued his return to winning ways on the Swedish clay as he moved into the quarter-finals, racking up his ninth Tour win of the year and back-to-back wins for the first time since reaching the last-16 of the Madrid Open in April.</p>

<p>"Great feelings now, I've been a while now without playing on the Tour since Roland Garros and had the chance to compete well against a great player like Cameron," said Nadal during his on-court interview.</p>

<p>"I think I played, for moments, good tennis."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nadal now leads the former world number eight Briton 5-1 in their head-to-head record.</p>

<p>Nadal showed few signs of rustiness from the get-go against fifth-seed &nbsp;Norrie, clipping a superb forehand winner down the line after taking it on the half-volley behind his own baseline in the very first game.</p>

<p>The decisive moment of the first set came at 3-3 when the Spaniard converted his third break point to get the edge on the Briton, before holding off a late challenge by his opponent to serve out the set.</p>

<p>Nadal then took a tumble on his backhand side in the first game of the second set and required brief medical attention on his left elbow at the change of ends.</p>

<p>The 2005 Bastad champion made a quick recovery, holding serve. But Norrie inflicted the first damage of the second set by chasing down a short ball and playing a delicate drop-shot return to set up two break points, converting the second after Nadal overhit a forehand.</p>

<p>Norrie confirmed the break by winning a fantastic game point at 40-15 with a cross-court backhand on the run away from the net to take a 4-1 lead.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-tour-of-sri-lanka-suryakumar-yadav-confirmed-as-new-t20i-captain-rohit-virat-to-play-in-odis-742120">India tour of Sri Lanka: Suryakumar Yadav confirmed as new T20I captain; Rohit, Virat to play in ODIs</a></p>

<p>Nadal soon showed his pedigree on the clay to break back in style, taking Norrie's serve to love and signing off the game with a thumping doublehanded-backhand passing shot.</p>

<p>The 22-time Grand Slam champion was unstoppable as he ground his opponent down with powerful, topspin-heavy ground strokes. He broke Norrie again and served out to love, having won five games in a row to take the match in straight sets.</p>

<p>Nadal will next face Mariano Navone in the quarter-final, after the fourth-seed Argentinian earlier overcame India's Sumit Nagal in straight sets.</p>

<p>The 23-year-old world number 36 is the highest seed left in the draw after Dutch third seed Tallon Griekspoor was earlier eliminated by Kazakh qualifier Timofey Skatov.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong> This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Rafael Nadal continued his Olympic preparations with a confident 6-4, 6-4 win over Cameron Norrie at the Bastad Open on Thursday, showing signs of the power hitting that fired him to 14 French Open titles.

Rafael Nadal continued his Olympic preparations with a confident 6-4, 6-4 win over Cameron Norrie at the Bastad Open on Thursday, showing signs of the power hitting that fired him to 14 French Open titles. The 38-year-old Spaniard continued his return to winning ways on the Swedish clay as he moved into the quarter-finals, racking up his ninth Tour win of the year and back-to-back wins for the first time since reaching the last-16 of the Madrid Open in April. "Great feelings now, I've been a while now without playing on the Tour since Roland Garros and had the chance to compete well against a great player like Cameron," said Nadal during his on-court interview. "I think I played, for moments, good tennis." Nadal now leads the former world number eight Briton 5-1 in their head-to-head record. Nadal showed few signs of rustiness from the get-go against fifth-seed Norrie, clipping a superb forehand winner down the line after taking it on the half-volley behind his own baseline in the very first game. The decisive moment of the first set came at 3-3 when the Spaniard converted his third break point to get the edge on the Briton, before holding off a late challenge by his opponent to serve out the set. Nadal then took a tumble on his backhand side in the first game of the second set and required brief medical attention on his left elbow at the change of ends. The 2005 Bastad champion made a quick recovery, holding serve. But Norrie inflicted the first damage of the second set by chasing down a short ball and playing a delicate drop-shot return to set up two break points, converting the second after Nadal overhit a forehand. Norrie confirmed the break by winning a fantastic game point at 40-15 with a cross-court backhand on the run away from the net to take a 4-1 lead. ALSO READ | India tour of Sri Lanka: Suryakumar Yadav confirmed as new T20I captain; Rohit, Virat to play in ODIs Nadal soon showed his pedigree on the clay to break back in style, taking Norrie's serve to love and signing off the game with a thumping doublehanded-backhand passing shot. The 22-time Grand Slam champion was unstoppable as he ground his opponent down with powerful, topspin-heavy ground strokes. He broke Norrie again and served out to love, having won five games in a row to take the match in straight sets. Nadal will next face Mariano Navone in the quarter-final, after the fourth-seed Argentinian earlier overcame India's Sumit Nagal in straight sets. The 23-year-old world number 36 is the highest seed left in the draw after Dutch third seed Tallon Griekspoor was earlier eliminated by Kazakh qualifier Timofey Skatov. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Spain's Rafael Nadal powers past Cameron Norrie to reach Bastad quarters

The story of 4 Iran-born female athletes who defected and will participate in the Paris Olympics is one of defying all odds. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: 4 Iran-born female athletes who defected will be participating in Paris Olympics

Olympic Champion Abhinav Bindra says India's Paris-bound athletes must not be bowed down by pressure and focus on eliminating external factors on the big day. Bindra was speaking to WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo ahead of the Paris games.

Abhinav Bindra on India's class of 2024

India's Anjum Modgil will compete at her second Olympics this month and will aim to put the disappointment of Tokyo 2020 behind her in Paris. She will participate in the 50m Rifle 3 position event. Moudgil spoke to Wion Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deon on her learnings from the Tokyo Olympics and her goals for Paris 2024.

Paris-bound Anjum Moudgil looks ahead to the Olympics

<p>India is all set&nbsp;to strike gold at the upcoming Paris Olympics as 21 shooters will compete for 27 medals in the French Capital. One of the medal aspirants for India is 22-year-old Manu Bhaker who will compete in three disciplines. While India will look to end its 12-year wait for an Olympic medal in shooting, Manu can script history by becoming the first woman to record the feat when she takes to the shooting ranges in Paris. She spoke exclusively to WION’s Aditya Pimpale and reflected on her preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics.</p>

<p>The 22-year-old will compete in three disciplines – 10m pistol, 25m pistol and 25m pistol team event. If she can shoot from point-blank range, Manu will script history and secure India’s fifth medal in shooting in its rich history.</p>

<h2><strong>Question: How is the morale in the camp, what colour of the medal and how many are you bringing back to India?</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Answer: </strong>The morale has been high in the camp, here we are focusing on how we can get the right things at the right place. Our main focus has been on our strengths, where we lack and where we can still improve. Speaking of the medal, nothing is guaranteed yet, but anything can happen so my focus will be on giving my best and clinching glory by striking a medal at the Paris Olympics.</p>

<h2><strong>Question: You struck gold in the 25 metres&nbsp;at the World Championships last year in Baku, are you expecting to repeat the same feat?</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Answer: </strong>Yes, I have been working hard to get the medals for India because you observed last year, I achieved a lot of success at the International Championships and Asian Championships. But the Olympics will be a different challenge for me and I am looking forward to it eagerly having waited for three years, so I want to give my best shot.</p>

<h2><strong>Question: You clinched two gold medals at the Youth Olympics in 2018 including gold, so will&nbsp;history repeat?</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Answer: </strong>Yes, I remember that as I also was the flag bearer for India. This is technically my third Olympics and I am desperate to add to those gold and silver medals I clinched back in 2018. The motivation is there to repeat the feat, but I know I have to punch above my weight to get to the next level.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/suryakumar-yadav-set-to-become-indias-t20i-captain-instead-of-hardik-pandya-for-sri-lanka-tour-741531">Suryakumar Yadav set to become India's T20I captain instead of Hardik Pandya for Sri Lanka tour</a></p>

<h2><strong>Question: Competing in multiple disciplines in 10-metre&nbsp;and 25-metre, is there an added pressure on you before the games?</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Answer: </strong>Honestly, it has been tough competing in multiple disciplines but again as I mentioned I have been doing it for the last 7-8 years, so it is not that difficult now. However, I have to be prepared both physically and mentally since I will be competing on nine consecutive days in three different events. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Question: You could script history by becoming the first female to win a medal at the Olympics in shooting, so is that an added incentive for you?</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Answer: </strong>To be honest, I would really love to claim that feat, but it is just not me but everyone who is travelling to Paris for the Olympics deserves to win a medal. In sports, you are not jealous of anyone or you are not trying to compete with each other but you are trying to get the best out of the other person. Winning on a personal note will be great but I wish we return with tons of medals with other Indian fellow mates during the Paris Olympics.</p>


India is all set to strike gold at the upcoming Paris Olympics as 21 shooters will compete for 27 medals in the French Capital. One of the medal aspirants for India is 22-year-old Manu Bhaker who will compete in three disciplines.

India is all set to strike gold at the upcoming Paris Olympics as 21 shooters will compete for 27 medals in the French Capital. One of the medal aspirants for India is 22-year-old Manu Bhaker who will compete in three disciplines. While India will look to end its 12-year wait for an Olympic medal in shooting, Manu can script history by becoming the first woman to record the feat when she takes to the shooting ranges in Paris. She spoke exclusively to WION’s Aditya Pimpale and reflected on her preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 22-year-old will compete in three disciplines – 10m pistol, 25m pistol and 25m pistol team event. If she can shoot from point-blank range, Manu will script history and secure India’s fifth medal in shooting in its rich history. Question: How is the morale in the camp, what colour of the medal and how many are you bringing back to India? Answer: The morale has been high in the camp, here we are focusing on how we can get the right things at the right place. Our main focus has been on our strengths, where we lack and where we can still improve. Speaking of the medal, nothing is guaranteed yet, but anything can happen so my focus will be on giving my best and clinching glory by striking a medal at the Paris Olympics. Question: You struck gold in the 25 metres at the World Championships last year in Baku, are you expecting to repeat the same feat? Answer: Yes, I have been working hard to get the medals for India because you observed last year, I achieved a lot of success at the International Championships and Asian Championships. But the Olympics will be a different challenge for me and I am looking forward to it eagerly having waited for three years, so I want to give my best shot. Question: You clinched two gold medals at the Youth Olympics in 2018 including gold, so will history repeat? Answer: Yes, I remember that as I also was the flag bearer for India. This is technically my third Olympics and I am desperate to add to those gold and silver medals I clinched back in 2018. The motivation is there to repeat the feat, but I know I have to punch above my weight to get to the next level. ALSO READ | Suryakumar Yadav set to become India's T20I captain instead of Hardik Pandya for Sri Lanka tour Question: Competing in multiple disciplines in 10-metre and 25-metre, is there an added pressure on you before the games? Answer: Honestly, it has been tough competing in multiple disciplines but again as I mentioned I have been doing it for the last 7-8 years, so it is not that difficult now. However, I have to be prepared both physically and mentally since I will be competing on nine consecutive days in three different events. Question: You could script history by becoming the first female to win a medal at the Olympics in shooting, so is that an added incentive for you? Answer: To be honest, I would really love to claim that feat, but it is just not me but everyone who is travelling to Paris for the Olympics deserves to win a medal. In sports, you are not jealous of anyone or you are not trying to compete with each other but you are trying to get the best out of the other person. Winning on a personal note will be great but I wish we return with tons of medals with other Indian fellow mates during the Paris Olympics.

EXCLUSIVE: Manu Bhaker gets ready to end India's 12-year wait for shooting medal at Paris Olympics

<p>BTS member Jin was the torchbearer of the Olympic flame on Sunday in Paris. Jin carried the Olympic torch near Paris' Louvre Museum. The oldest BTS member was only recently discharged from his mandatory military service in South Korea.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Photos and videos of the singer from the event were all over social media as Jin took the torch around in Paris.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Glimpses of fans gathering for the BTS band member ahead of his appearance at the Louvre Museum also surfaced. Check them out:<br />
<br />
<strong>Jin's torch-bearing ceremony</strong><br />
<br />
Jin left Seoul for France on Thursday to take part in the torch relay, which has been underway for more than two months in the country.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The organiser did not reveal why Jim was chosen as one of the torchbearers in relay but it can be assumed that BTS' global popularity was perhaps the reason for his involvement at the event. Jin is the only member of the BTS who has completed the mandatory military service. His other fellow band members are still serving in the military, as it is mandatory for South Korean men.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">11 days to go until <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris2024</a>! 🇫🇷<br />
👀 Watch the Torch get closer and closer with <a href="https://twitter.com/bts_bighit?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bts_bighit</a> Jin 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/Paris2024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paris2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/zZ2rHiTTRX">pic.twitter.com/zZ2rHiTTRX</a></p>
— The Olympic Games (@Olympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics/status/1812590506863464511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Do you want a bit more of Jin from BTS with the Olympic Flame? Here you got! <a href="https://t.co/xTYe65mBSe">pic.twitter.com/xTYe65mBSe</a></p>
— Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paris2024/status/1812612346503733418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>At the torch relay, Jin wore a white jersey as he carried the Olympic torch.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“Look at how many police officers guarding him He really is the nation's (South Korea's) treasure,” wrote a fan on X. Another tweeted, “Proud of you Jin…”<br />
<br />
The torch arrived in Paris on Sunday, which is Bastille Day, the French national holiday commemorating the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
After its arrival, the torch will travel through various Paris landmarks until Monday. It will come to Paris for the opening ceremony on July 26.</p>


BTS member Jin was the torchbearer of the Olympic flame on Sunday in Paris. Jin carried the Olympic torch near Paris' Louvre Museum. The oldest BTS member was only recently discharged from his mandatory military service in South Korea.

BTS member Jin was the torchbearer of the Olympic flame on Sunday in Paris. Jin carried the Olympic torch near Paris' Louvre Museum. The oldest BTS member was only recently discharged from his mandatory military service in South Korea. Photos and videos of the singer from the event were all over social media as Jin took the torch around in Paris. Glimpses of fans gathering for the BTS band member ahead of his appearance at the Louvre Museum also surfaced. Check them out: Jin's torch-bearing ceremony Jin left Seoul for France on Thursday to take part in the torch relay, which has been underway for more than two months in the country. The organiser did not reveal why Jim was chosen as one of the torchbearers in relay but it can be assumed that BTS' global popularity was perhaps the reason for his involvement at the event. Jin is the only member of the BTS who has completed the mandatory military service. His other fellow band members are still serving in the military, as it is mandatory for South Korean men. 11 days to go until #Paris2024! 🇫🇷 👀 Watch the Torch get closer and closer with @bts_bighit Jin 🔥@Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/zZ2rHiTTRX — The Olympic Games (@Olympics) July 14, 2024 × Do you want a bit more of Jin from BTS with the Olympic Flame? Here you got! pic.twitter.com/xTYe65mBSe — Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) July 14, 2024 × At the torch relay, Jin wore a white jersey as he carried the Olympic torch. “Look at how many police officers guarding him He really is the nation's (South Korea's) treasure,” wrote a fan on X. Another tweeted, “Proud of you Jin…” The torch arrived in Paris on Sunday, which is Bastille Day, the French national holiday commemorating the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution. After its arrival, the torch will travel through various Paris landmarks until Monday. It will come to Paris for the opening ceremony on July 26.

BTS member Jin carries the iconic torch through Paris streets ahead of Olympics 2024

<p>Russian wrestlers have unanimously turned down the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) invitation to participate in this year’s Paris Games. In a statement released by the Russian Wrestling Federation on Saturday (July 6), it stated that they won’t accept the invite deeming it to be “unsportsmanlike” while turning down the offer. The decision now means Russia’s overall participation in the Paris Olympics is all but over having been already banned from competing in the rest of the events by the IOC after the nation called for war on neighbours Ukraine in February 2022.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia rejects wrestling invitation</strong></h2>

<p>"We do not accept the unsportsmanlike selection principle that guided the International Olympic Committee when forming the list of eligible athletes," the federation said in a statement.</p>

<p>It further stated that the governing body, coaches and athletes had taken a "unanimous decision to refuse to participate in the Olympic Games.”</p>

<p>The IOC had stated that Russian Wrestlers could compete at the Paris Olympics if they demonstrated that they did not support the nation’s military offensive on Ukraine and had no links to the country's armed forces.</p>

<p>Even if the wrestlers admit to the above clause, they will only compete at the Olympics under a neutral flag and will be excluded from any team events and also the opening ceremony.</p>

<p>However, the decision did not go well with the authorities of the Wrestling Federation of Russia and they denied the invite, claiming it as “unsportsmanlike” for the nation’s other athletes.</p>

<p>Earlier, Ukraine's National Olympic Committee (NOC) and Sports Ministry requested the IOC to ban Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing altogether. Under the current provision, Russian and Belarusian athletes can compete under the Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN) with "strict eligibility conditions."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-ronaldos-international-career-over-after-portugals-euro-2024-exit-martinez-comments-738398">Is Ronaldo’s international career over after Portugal's Euro 2024 exit? Martinez comments</a></p>

<p>According to Ukraine these "athletes quite often represent sports organizations related to the Russian Armed Forces” and should therefore should be banned from competing.</p>

<p>The letter also stated that athletes had a direct connection to the Russian military, such as canoeist Alexey Korovashkov, who is among the "representatives of the Central Sports Club of the Russian Army and officers of the Russian Army," according to the letter.</p>

<p>This is a "gross violation of the requirements established by the Individual Commission of Neutral Athletes of the IOC," the letter said.</p>

<p><em>(Inputs from Agencies)</em></p>


Russian wrestlers have unanimously turned down the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) invitation to participate in this year’s Paris Games. In a statement released by the Russian Wrestling Federation on Saturday (July 6), it stated that they won’t accept the invite deeming it to be “unsportsmanlike” while turning down the offer.

Russian wrestlers have unanimously turned down the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) invitation to participate in this year’s Paris Games. In a statement released by the Russian Wrestling Federation on Saturday (July 6), it stated that they won’t accept the invite deeming it to be “unsportsmanlike” while turning down the offer. The decision now means Russia’s overall participation in the Paris Olympics is all but over having been already banned from competing in the rest of the events by the IOC after the nation called for war on neighbours Ukraine in February 2022. Russia rejects wrestling invitation "We do not accept the unsportsmanlike selection principle that guided the International Olympic Committee when forming the list of eligible athletes," the federation said in a statement. It further stated that the governing body, coaches and athletes had taken a "unanimous decision to refuse to participate in the Olympic Games.” The IOC had stated that Russian Wrestlers could compete at the Paris Olympics if they demonstrated that they did not support the nation’s military offensive on Ukraine and had no links to the country's armed forces. Even if the wrestlers admit to the above clause, they will only compete at the Olympics under a neutral flag and will be excluded from any team events and also the opening ceremony. However, the decision did not go well with the authorities of the Wrestling Federation of Russia and they denied the invite, claiming it as “unsportsmanlike” for the nation’s other athletes. Earlier, Ukraine's National Olympic Committee (NOC) and Sports Ministry requested the IOC to ban Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing altogether. Under the current provision, Russian and Belarusian athletes can compete under the Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN) with "strict eligibility conditions." ALSO READ | Is Ronaldo’s international career over after Portugal's Euro 2024 exit? Martinez comments According to Ukraine these "athletes quite often represent sports organizations related to the Russian Armed Forces” and should therefore should be banned from competing. The letter also stated that athletes had a direct connection to the Russian military, such as canoeist Alexey Korovashkov, who is among the "representatives of the Central Sports Club of the Russian Army and officers of the Russian Army," according to the letter. This is a "gross violation of the requirements established by the Individual Commission of Neutral Athletes of the IOC," the letter said. (Inputs from Agencies)

'We do not accept the unsportsmanlike selection': Russian wrestlers reject Olympics invitation

<p>The water quality of the Seine has improved, test results showed on Thursday, three weeks ahead of the start of the Paris Olympics when the river is set to host outdoor swimming events.</p>

<p>Results published by the Paris mayor's office showed that E.Coli bacteria levels at an Olympics swimming spot in central Paris had fallen to within acceptable limits for four days in a row following warm and sunny weather in the French capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This positive development is a consequence of the return of sunshine and warmth as well as the effects of the work done as part of the strategy to improve the quality of the Seine's waters," a statement from the mayor's office said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The period covered June 24-July 2.</p>

<p>The previous week, levels of E.Coli -- a bacteria indicating the presence of faecal matter -- had been above the upper limits used by sports federations every day at the Alexandre III bridge location in central Paris, which is set to be the jumping-off point for the swimming.</p>

<p>At one point, E.Coli levels were 10 times the upper limit of 1,000&nbsp;colony-forming units per 100 millilitres (cfu/ml), with heavy rain over the previous two months leading to fears for the Olympic events.</p>

<p>The Seine is set to be used for the swimming leg of the triathlon on July 30-31 and August 5, as well as the open-water swimming on August 8-9.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/lets-celebrate-india-skipper-rohit-sharma-invites-fans-to-join-2024-t20-world-cup-victory-parade-737544">'Let’s celebrate,' India skipper Rohit Sharma invites fans to join 2024 T20 World Cup victory parade</a></p>

<p>The readings for enterococci bacteria last week -- a second key measurement of water quality -- also improved markedly and were within acceptable limits every day at the Alexandre III bridge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>French authorities have spent 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) in the last decade trying to clean up the river by improving the Paris sewerage system, as well as building new water treatment and storage facilities.</p>

<p>But major storms still overwhelm the capital's waste water network, some of which date back to the 19th century, leading to discharges of untreated sewage directly into the river.</p>


The water quality of the Seine has improved, test results showed on Thursday, three weeks ahead of the start of the Paris Olympics when the river is set to host outdoor swimming events.

The water quality of the Seine has improved, test results showed on Thursday, three weeks ahead of the start of the Paris Olympics when the river is set to host outdoor swimming events. Results published by the Paris mayor's office showed that E.Coli bacteria levels at an Olympics swimming spot in central Paris had fallen to within acceptable limits for four days in a row following warm and sunny weather in the French capital. "This positive development is a consequence of the return of sunshine and warmth as well as the effects of the work done as part of the strategy to improve the quality of the Seine's waters," a statement from the mayor's office said. The period covered June 24-July 2. The previous week, levels of E.Coli -- a bacteria indicating the presence of faecal matter -- had been above the upper limits used by sports federations every day at the Alexandre III bridge location in central Paris, which is set to be the jumping-off point for the swimming. At one point, E.Coli levels were 10 times the upper limit of 1,000 colony-forming units per 100 millilitres (cfu/ml), with heavy rain over the previous two months leading to fears for the Olympic events. The Seine is set to be used for the swimming leg of the triathlon on July 30-31 and August 5, as well as the open-water swimming on August 8-9. ALSO READ | 'Let’s celebrate,' India skipper Rohit Sharma invites fans to join 2024 T20 World Cup victory parade The readings for enterococci bacteria last week -- a second key measurement of water quality -- also improved markedly and were within acceptable limits every day at the Alexandre III bridge. French authorities have spent 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) in the last decade trying to clean up the river by improving the Paris sewerage system, as well as building new water treatment and storage facilities. But major storms still overwhelm the capital's waste water network, some of which date back to the 19th century, leading to discharges of untreated sewage directly into the river.

Paris Olympics 2024: Seine water quality improves, reveals latest tests

France will deploy 35,000 security agents and military for the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games. For the first time in the history of summer games the ceremony will be held outside the walls of the stadium. The parade of athletes will be held on the Seine River with boats for each national delegation with spectators not needing a ticket to access.

France to deploy 35,000 security personnel for the Olympic Games 2024 opening ceremony

<p>The health of the athletes could be at risk during the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Paris as the French capital could witness extreme heatwaves. Set to begin on 26 July 2024, it is reported that temperatures during the Paris Games could be more than 3 degree Celsius than the average, which could result in adverse effects on the health of athletes. European summer will be at its peak when the Olympic Games and the Paralympics Games take place in July and August.</p>

<h2><strong>Paris to break heat record?</strong></h2>

<p>The 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 virus outbreak), experienced the hottest games so far in history. However, according to a report by CBC, Paris could break that record as conditions will be hotter in Europe in July and August. Heat waves have been increasing in frequency and intensity in Paris. The "urban heat island effect," whereby urban areas tend to be warmer than rural areas, has only exacerbated the issue in the Paris region.</p>

<p>In 2019, Paris experienced its hottest summer with temperatures reaching 42 degrees Celsius. In recent years, the frequency of heatwaves has increased which has led to athletes re-thinking their participation in the Olympics. While there have been no particular cases of athletes withdrawing due to heatwaves, the authorities could be at a stretch as a huge number of international audiences will be in Paris for the Olympics.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/new-zealands-kane-williamson-steps-down-from-captaincy-role-after-early-exit-in-t20-world-cup-733007">New Zealand's Kane Williamson steps down from captaincy role after early exit in T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>The report further adds that&nbsp;in 2023, France recorded more than 5000 deaths due to the scorching heat. If the trend continues this year, fans could turn their backs on the Paris Olympics as health safety will be the first preference.</p>

<p>The Tokyo Olympics had athletes vomiting and even fainting at the finish line with almost one in every 100 athletes suffering from a heat-related illness. The rise in not only temperatures but also in humidity adds to the risk of heat stroke.</p>

<p>Plans have been put forth by organisers to schedule outdoor events early morning or evening&nbsp;whenever possible.&nbsp;There are contingency plans in place to reschedule events depending on heat and humidity levels each day.</p>


The health of the athletes could be at risk during the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Paris as the French capital could witness extreme heatwaves. Set to begin on 26 July 2024, it is reported that temperatures during the Paris Games could be more than 3 degree Celsius than the average, which could result in adverse effects on the health of athletes.

The health of the athletes could be at risk during the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Paris as the French capital could witness extreme heatwaves. Set to begin on 26 July 2024, it is reported that temperatures during the Paris Games could be more than 3 degree Celsius than the average, which could result in adverse effects on the health of athletes. European summer will be at its peak when the Olympic Games and the Paralympics Games take place in July and August. Paris to break heat record? The 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 virus outbreak), experienced the hottest games so far in history. However, according to a report by CBC, Paris could break that record as conditions will be hotter in Europe in July and August. Heat waves have been increasing in frequency and intensity in Paris. The "urban heat island effect," whereby urban areas tend to be warmer than rural areas, has only exacerbated the issue in the Paris region. In 2019, Paris experienced its hottest summer with temperatures reaching 42 degrees Celsius. In recent years, the frequency of heatwaves has increased which has led to athletes re-thinking their participation in the Olympics. While there have been no particular cases of athletes withdrawing due to heatwaves, the authorities could be at a stretch as a huge number of international audiences will be in Paris for the Olympics. ALSO READ | New Zealand's Kane Williamson steps down from captaincy role after early exit in T20 World Cup The report further adds that in 2023, France recorded more than 5000 deaths due to the scorching heat. If the trend continues this year, fans could turn their backs on the Paris Olympics as health safety will be the first preference. The Tokyo Olympics had athletes vomiting and even fainting at the finish line with almost one in every 100 athletes suffering from a heat-related illness. The rise in not only temperatures but also in humidity adds to the risk of heat stroke. Plans have been put forth by organisers to schedule outdoor events early morning or evening whenever possible. There are contingency plans in place to reschedule events depending on heat and humidity levels each day.

Olympics 2024: Athletes at risk as Paris likely to experience record-breaking heat during Summer Games

Visitors to Paris make a beeline to the Louvre to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa and countless other Treasures but now the world's largest museum is also attempting to join the Olympic fever. You can now work out inside the Louvre as Olympic organisers attempt to combine Sports and culture.

Louvre offers sport sessions ahead of games

<p>Indian wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Anshu have secured their respective berths in the upcoming Paris Olympics after winning&nbsp;in&nbsp;the Asian Qualifiers on Saturday (April 20). Phogat, a three-time Commonwealth Games gold&nbsp;medalist&nbsp;beat Laura Ganikyzy in the 50kg semifinal of the Asian Olympic Qualifiers.&nbsp;The win means Phogat will compete at her third Olympics after representing the nation at the 2020 and 2016 Olympics.&nbsp;The glorious day for India was also highlighted by Anshu Malik who also secured the Olympic quota&nbsp;having&nbsp;won in the 57kg division.</p>

<p>It was a different scenario on the mat for Phogat&nbsp;this time&nbsp;as&nbsp;she competed in the 50kg category instead of her usual 53kg category.&nbsp;Antim&nbsp;Phangal’s&nbsp;dominance was the key reason she started the season in the 50kg category, with the former already having secured passage in the 53kg category. Phogat had a decisive day on Saturday&nbsp;knowing&nbsp;a win in the quarterfinal will secure her Olympics quota.</p>

<p>Standing in&nbsp;Phogat’s&nbsp;way was Ganikyzy, a bronze medallist from the U23 Asian Championships. Ganikyzy appeared eager to start scoring quickly and got out to an aggressive start, but Vinesh kept her off and played defense.</p>

<p>Phogat&nbsp;hasn't&nbsp;participated in an international competition since the 2022 Commonwealth Games. She was&nbsp;placed first in the 50kg division at the March selection trials after winning gold in the 55kg category at the Indian nationals in February of this year.&nbsp;This&nbsp;is also her first major outing since she played a prominent role in the&nbsp;wrestlers'&nbsp;protest against former Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for alleged sexual harassment of&nbsp;women&nbsp;wrestlers.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-bcci-fines-ruturaj-gaikwad-and-kl-rahul-12-million-each-for-this-reason-713330">IPL 2024: BCCI fines Ruturaj Gaikwad and KL Rahul INR 1.2 million each for THIS reason</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Anshu also&nbsp;secured her berth in the Olympics after beating&nbsp;Kyrgyzstan's&nbsp;Kalmira Bilimbekova. With only eight participants in the competition,&nbsp;Anshu’s&nbsp;passage was&nbsp;simple,&nbsp;a win would have seen her in the semis and secure the berth. In a&nbsp;wonderful&nbsp;display of dominance, she got the better of her Kyrgyzstan opponent.</p>

<p>She&nbsp;then put&nbsp;Uzbekistan's&nbsp;Laylokhon Sobirova to the mat with a dominant 6-0 lead in the early stage. Anshu wiped the floor with Sobirova before officially confirming her place in the Olympics.</p>


Indian wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Anshu have secured their respective berths in the upcoming Paris Olympics after winning in the Asian Qualifiers on Saturday (April 20).

Indian wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Anshu have secured their respective berths in the upcoming Paris Olympics after winning in the Asian Qualifiers on Saturday (April 20). Phogat, a three-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist beat Laura Ganikyzy in the 50kg semifinal of the Asian Olympic Qualifiers. The win means Phogat will compete at her third Olympics after representing the nation at the 2020 and 2016 Olympics. The glorious day for India was also highlighted by Anshu Malik who also secured the Olympic quota having won in the 57kg division. It was a different scenario on the mat for Phogat this time as she competed in the 50kg category instead of her usual 53kg category. Antim Phangal’s dominance was the key reason she started the season in the 50kg category, with the former already having secured passage in the 53kg category. Phogat had a decisive day on Saturday knowing a win in the quarterfinal will secure her Olympics quota. Standing in Phogat’s way was Ganikyzy, a bronze medallist from the U23 Asian Championships. Ganikyzy appeared eager to start scoring quickly and got out to an aggressive start, but Vinesh kept her off and played defense. Phogat hasn't participated in an international competition since the 2022 Commonwealth Games. She was placed first in the 50kg division at the March selection trials after winning gold in the 55kg category at the Indian nationals in February of this year. This is also her first major outing since she played a prominent role in the wrestlers' protest against former Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for alleged sexual harassment of women wrestlers. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: BCCI fines Ruturaj Gaikwad and KL Rahul INR 1.2 million each for THIS reason Meanwhile, Anshu also secured her berth in the Olympics after beating Kyrgyzstan's Kalmira Bilimbekova. With only eight participants in the competition, Anshu’s passage was simple, a win would have seen her in the semis and secure the berth. In a wonderful display of dominance, she got the better of her Kyrgyzstan opponent. She then put Uzbekistan's Laylokhon Sobirova to the mat with a dominant 6-0 lead in the early stage. Anshu wiped the floor with Sobirova before officially confirming her place in the Olympics.

India's Vinesh Phogat, Anshu secure Paris Olympics berth after winning at Asian Olympic Qualifiers

<p>In a major announcement made by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Friday (April 12), Mary Kom has decided to step down from her role as Paris Olympics Chef-de-Mission. The news was confirmed by IOA President PT Usha who will soon announce a replacement for the same. Mary Kom confirmed her desire to leave the position citing personal reasons and was “left with no choice” according to her statement.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Embarrassing to retreat from a commitment, but I am left with no choice: Mary Kom after stepping down as India's chef-de-mission for Olympics</p>
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<p>"Embarrassing to retreat from a commitment, but I am left with no choice," said Kom to PTI.</p>

<p>Kom was appointed in her role in March 2024 and was set to mentor the Indian athletes on their way to the Paris Olympics. She was one of the obvious choices for the role having led the nation to an Olympic bronze in the 2012 London Games. Her connection with the athletes and being a female was the major reason for her appointment by the IOA in March.</p>

<p>"Mary Kom's unparalleled dedication to sports and inspiring journey makes her a natural choice to guide and mentor our athletes at the Olympics," IOA said.</p>

<p>"Keshavan, a former Olympian in luge, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to support the team's management and coordination efforts."</p>

<p>Her capacity as the Chef-de-Mission for the Paris Games included overseeing logistics, coordinating travel arrangements, liaising with the host country's Olympic organising committee, ensuring compliance with Olympic rules and regulations, handling any issues or disputes that may arise and providing support and guidance to athletes and team officials throughout the Games.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-hussey-on-ms-dhonis-impact-on-dressing-room-you-feel-like-youre-backed-trusted-and-loved-710480">IPL 2024: Hussey on MS Dhoni’s impact on dressing room - ‘You feel like you're backed, trusted and loved’</a></p>

<p>India is set for a big Paris Olympics contingent and considering the workload, Kom had a big responsibility in hand. India won seven medals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics including a gold medal in Javelin Throw for Neeraj Chopra. Alongside Neeraj, India also won a silver medal in men’s 57kg freestyle wrestling by Ravi Kumar Dahiya while Mirabai Chanu also secured the same prize in Women's 49kg weightlifting. There were bronze medals for Lovlina Borgohain, PV Sindhu, the Indian hockey team and Bajrang Punia.</p>

<p>Considering the weight of the job at hand, PT Usha and Co will have a big task in hand to find a capable person to lead and mentor the contingent in Paris.</p>


In a major announcement made by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Friday (April 12), Mary Kom has decided to step down from her role as Paris Olympics Chef-de-Mission.

In a major announcement made by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Friday (April 12), Mary Kom has decided to step down from her role as Paris Olympics Chef-de-Mission. The news was confirmed by IOA President PT Usha who will soon announce a replacement for the same. Mary Kom confirmed her desire to leave the position citing personal reasons and was “left with no choice” according to her statement. Embarrassing to retreat from a commitment, but I am left with no choice: Mary Kom after stepping down as India's chef-de-mission for Olympics — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 12, 2024 × "Embarrassing to retreat from a commitment, but I am left with no choice," said Kom to PTI. Kom was appointed in her role in March 2024 and was set to mentor the Indian athletes on their way to the Paris Olympics. She was one of the obvious choices for the role having led the nation to an Olympic bronze in the 2012 London Games. Her connection with the athletes and being a female was the major reason for her appointment by the IOA in March. "Mary Kom's unparalleled dedication to sports and inspiring journey makes her a natural choice to guide and mentor our athletes at the Olympics," IOA said. "Keshavan, a former Olympian in luge, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to support the team's management and coordination efforts." Her capacity as the Chef-de-Mission for the Paris Games included overseeing logistics, coordinating travel arrangements, liaising with the host country's Olympic organising committee, ensuring compliance with Olympic rules and regulations, handling any issues or disputes that may arise and providing support and guidance to athletes and team officials throughout the Games. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Hussey on MS Dhoni’s impact on dressing room - ‘You feel like you're backed, trusted and loved’ India is set for a big Paris Olympics contingent and considering the workload, Kom had a big responsibility in hand. India won seven medals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics including a gold medal in Javelin Throw for Neeraj Chopra. Alongside Neeraj, India also won a silver medal in men’s 57kg freestyle wrestling by Ravi Kumar Dahiya while Mirabai Chanu also secured the same prize in Women's 49kg weightlifting. There were bronze medals for Lovlina Borgohain, PV Sindhu, the Indian hockey team and Bajrang Punia. Considering the weight of the job at hand, PT Usha and Co will have a big task in hand to find a capable person to lead and mentor the contingent in Paris.

India's Mary Kom steps down as Paris Olympics Chef-de-Mission due to personal reason

<p>Nike is getting ready to show off its new outfits for Olympic teams, like those from the US and Kenya, as it aims to keep up its image as a top gear brand for top athletes and everyday folks alike.</p>

<p>With sales not doing so great lately, the coming Summer Olympics in Paris are a big chance for Nike to turn heads back to its high-end products, especially its running shoes.</p>

<p>These shoes, especially the Nike Alphafly 3, are aimed at runners who want the latest tech and are willing to pay for it.</p>

<p>HSBC analysts think Nike will grow slower than rivals like Adidas and Lululemon in the next few years, showing Nike needs to step up its game and grab more of the market.</p>

<p>Even as a big name in sports clothes, Nike is losing ground to brands like On Running, Hoka, and Lululemon. People are also moving away from big basketball shoes to more sleek "terrace" shoes, like the Adidas Samba, which adds to Nike's challenges.</p>

<p>Facing these challenges, Nike has warned of dropping income in the early part of its 2025 financial year. To fight this, the company said it will cut back on making its well-known shoes like the Air Force 1 and focus more on new products.</p>

<p>Tom Nikic, an analyst in New York, said Nike's recent products haven't been exciting or new. This matches what many think about Nike not making new exciting stuff lately.</p>

<p>But, the upcoming Olympics could be a chance for Nike to make its name shine again.</p>

<p>People think seeing Olympians set records wearing Nike could make folks lean towards Nike again.</p>

<p>Yet, Nikic warns, "We have to wait and see if Nike has the strong product to make the most of the buzz it will get."</p>

<p>Facing what the market wants and what people like, Nike's leaders said they plan to put more into running shoes, an area they've not been leading in. They want to make more affordable running shoes, priced between $100 and $150 a pair, to grow Nike's spot in the running shoe market.</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from Reuters)</i></p>


Nike is getting ready to show off its new outfits for Olympic teams, like those from the US and Kenya, as it aims to keep up its image as a top gear brand for top athletes and everyday folks alike.

Nike is getting ready to show off its new outfits for Olympic teams, like those from the US and Kenya, as it aims to keep up its image as a top gear brand for top athletes and everyday folks alike. With sales not doing so great lately, the coming Summer Olympics in Paris are a big chance for Nike to turn heads back to its high-end products, especially its running shoes. These shoes, especially the Nike Alphafly 3, are aimed at runners who want the latest tech and are willing to pay for it. HSBC analysts think Nike will grow slower than rivals like Adidas and Lululemon in the next few years, showing Nike needs to step up its game and grab more of the market. Even as a big name in sports clothes, Nike is losing ground to brands like On Running, Hoka, and Lululemon. People are also moving away from big basketball shoes to more sleek "terrace" shoes, like the Adidas Samba, which adds to Nike's challenges. Facing these challenges, Nike has warned of dropping income in the early part of its 2025 financial year. To fight this, the company said it will cut back on making its well-known shoes like the Air Force 1 and focus more on new products. Tom Nikic, an analyst in New York, said Nike's recent products haven't been exciting or new. This matches what many think about Nike not making new exciting stuff lately. But, the upcoming Olympics could be a chance for Nike to make its name shine again. People think seeing Olympians set records wearing Nike could make folks lean towards Nike again. Yet, Nikic warns, "We have to wait and see if Nike has the strong product to make the most of the buzz it will get." Facing what the market wants and what people like, Nike's leaders said they plan to put more into running shoes, an area they've not been leading in. They want to make more affordable running shoes, priced between $100 and $150 a pair, to grow Nike's spot in the running shoe market. (With inputs from Reuters)

Nike prepares to unveil Olympic kits amid sales challenges

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