Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu headed back to India on Monday after winning a silver medal for her country in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/condoms-and-sex-at-olympics-awareness-creation-restrictions-and-pushback-400707" hreflang="en">Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback</a>

Chanu took to Twitter to share this news. "Heading back to home, Thank you #Tokyo2020 for memorable moments of my life," tweeted Chanu.

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Heading back to home 🇮🇳, Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> for memorable moments of my life. <a href="https://t.co/6H2VpAxU1x">pic.twitter.com/6H2VpAxU1x</a>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1419471081740529666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won the first medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she bagged silver after lifting 202kg (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category on Saturday (July 24). China's HOU Zhihu, who lifted a total of 210kg, clinched the gold medal, on the other hand, Aisah Windy Cantika of Indonesia won the bronze medal.&nbsp;

It was a historic feat for Chanu as her win came two decades after Indian trailblazer Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category.&nbsp;

After winning the medal, she said, "Was determined to give my best, 2016 Olympics proved to be a learning curve: Mirabai Chanu. I tried my best to win gold medal, I wasn't able to win gold, but I really tried. When I did 2nd lift, I understood I'll bring a medal along with me. I'm very happy that I've won the medal. The entire country was watching me &amp; they had their expectations, I was a little nervous but I was determined to give my best...I worked really hard for this."

India's President Ram Nath Kovind wished Chanu on her outstanding win. Taking to his Twitter, he wrote, "Heartiest congratulations to Mirabai Chanu for starting the medal tally for India in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 by winning silver medal in weightlifting."

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu headed back to India on Monday after winning a silver medal for her country in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. ALSO READ: Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback Chanu took to Twitter to share this news.

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu headed back to India on Monday after winning a silver medal for her country in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. ALSO READ: Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback Chanu took to Twitter to share this news. "Heading back to home, Thank you #Tokyo2020 for memorable moments of my life," tweeted Chanu. Heading back to home 🇮🇳, Thank you #Tokyo2020 for memorable moments of my life. pic.twitter.com/6H2VpAxU1x — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) July 26, 2021 × Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won the first medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she bagged silver after lifting 202kg (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category on Saturday (July 24). China's HOU Zhihu, who lifted a total of 210kg, clinched the gold medal, on the other hand, Aisah Windy Cantika of Indonesia won the bronze medal. It was a historic feat for Chanu as her win came two decades after Indian trailblazer Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. After winning the medal, she said, "Was determined to give my best, 2016 Olympics proved to be a learning curve: Mirabai Chanu. I tried my best to win gold medal, I wasn't able to win gold, but I really tried. When I did 2nd lift, I understood I'll bring a medal along with me. I'm very happy that I've won the medal. The entire country was watching me & they had their expectations, I was a little nervous but I was determined to give my best...I worked really hard for this." India's President Ram Nath Kovind wished Chanu on her outstanding win. Taking to his Twitter, he wrote, "Heartiest congratulations to Mirabai Chanu for starting the medal tally for India in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 by winning silver medal in weightlifting."

Tokyo 2020- 'Heading back': Mirabai Chanu set to return to India after a memorable Olympics

Tokyo Olympics organisers, in their daily Coronavirus (COVID-19) update on Monday, reported&nbsp;16 new Games-related cases, including three athletes. However, it has been confirmed that all three athletes are not residents of the Olympic Village.&nbsp;Among the remaining 13 cases, four are contractors and a member was part of the organising committee. Eight games-related officials have also been infected, out of which one was staying at the village. As soon as&nbsp;the cases were detected, the athletes and seven Games-concerned personnel were put under the mandatory 14-day quarantine.&nbsp;

As per Kyodo News, the total number of COVID-19 cases since July 1 have surged to 148. Also note that the number of infections compiled by the organisers since July 1, does not include the numbers announced by the central and local governments.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/condoms-and-sex-at-olympics-awareness-creation-restrictions-and-pushback-400707" hreflang="en">Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback</a>

It is imperative to note that the Tokyo 2020 games are being held without fans and athletes are kept under tight quarantine to control the spread of COVID-19 infections, however, the cases have shot up&nbsp;in recent weeks, with the host city Tokyo recording 1,763 cases on Sunday.&nbsp;

Previously, the Tokyo Olympics organisers confirmed the first COVID infection of an athlete after competing at an event when Dutch rower Finn Florijn tested positive after finishing in his heat at the Games on Friday.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dutch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dutch</a> rower Finn Florijn will not compete in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoOlympucs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoOlympucs</a> after testing positive for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Japan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Japan</a> on Friday, Team <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Netherlands?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Netherlands</a> said in a statement. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rowing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rowing</a> <a href="https://t.co/8DniCaWa0z">pic.twitter.com/8DniCaWa0z</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-japans-momiji-nishiya-13-becomes-first-womens-olympic-skateboard-champion-400686" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Japan's Momiji Nishiya, 13, becomes first women's Olympic skateboard champion</a>

The Czech Republic, the USA, Chile, South Africa and the Netherlands are among other contingents that have been hit by COVID-19 after landing in Tokyo. The Czech Republic is inquiring into possible health safety protocol violations by its contingent after four athletes tested positive and forced withdrawals from beach volleyball and road cycling events.&nbsp;

The organisers are taking necessary steps to control the spread as they have mandated frequent testing, restricted movements and wearing masks by athletes. However, the athletes are allowed to briefly take off their masks on the podium for 30 seconds for a photo opportunity.&nbsp;

Tokyo Olympics organisers, in their daily Coronavirus (COVID-19) update on Monday, reported 16 new Games-related cases, including three athletes. However, it has been confirmed that all three athletes are not residents of the Olympic Village.

Tokyo Olympics organisers, in their daily Coronavirus (COVID-19) update on Monday, reported 16 new Games-related cases, including three athletes. However, it has been confirmed that all three athletes are not residents of the Olympic Village. Among the remaining 13 cases, four are contractors and a member was part of the organising committee. Eight games-related officials have also been infected, out of which one was staying at the village. As soon as the cases were detected, the athletes and seven Games-concerned personnel were put under the mandatory 14-day quarantine. As per Kyodo News, the total number of COVID-19 cases since July 1 have surged to 148. Also note that the number of infections compiled by the organisers since July 1, does not include the numbers announced by the central and local governments. ALSO READ | Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback It is imperative to note that the Tokyo 2020 games are being held without fans and athletes are kept under tight quarantine to control the spread of COVID-19 infections, however, the cases have shot up in recent weeks, with the host city Tokyo recording 1,763 cases on Sunday. Previously, the Tokyo Olympics organisers confirmed the first COVID infection of an athlete after competing at an event when Dutch rower Finn Florijn tested positive after finishing in his heat at the Games on Friday. #Dutch rower Finn Florijn will not compete in the #TokyoOlympucs after testing positive for #COVID19 in #Japan on Friday, Team #Netherlands said in a statement. #Tokyo2020 #rowing pic.twitter.com/8DniCaWa0z — Said Pulido (@Super_Said) July 24, 2021 × ALSO READ | Tokyo 2020: Japan's Momiji Nishiya, 13, becomes first women's Olympic skateboard champion The Czech Republic, the USA, Chile, South Africa and the Netherlands are among other contingents that have been hit by COVID-19 after landing in Tokyo. The Czech Republic is inquiring into possible health safety protocol violations by its contingent after four athletes tested positive and forced withdrawals from beach volleyball and road cycling events. The organisers are taking necessary steps to control the spread as they have mandated frequent testing, restricted movements and wearing masks by athletes. However, the athletes are allowed to briefly take off their masks on the podium for 30 seconds for a photo opportunity.

Tokyo Olympics: Three athletes among 16 new Games-related COVID-19 cases, confirm organisers

Athletes must wear masks throughout the Tokyo Olympic Games venues, including medal ceremonies, the International Olympic Committee said on Sunday (July 25), but according to a new policy they are briefly allowed to remove it on the podium for a photo opportunity.

Masks are mandatory across all venues, both inside and outside for all athletes, staff and media, as part of Games organisers' strict measures to combat the coronavirus.

"It's not a nice to have. It's a must have," said IOC spokesperson Mark Adams, responding to questions about the mask-less swimmers.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-manu-bhaker-and-yashaswini-deswal-fail-to-qualify-for-womens-10m-air-rifle-final-400438" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal fail to qualify for women's 10m Air Rifle final</a>

"No, there is no relaxation and we would urge and ask everyone to obey the rules," the IOC's Adams said. "It's important both for the sports and for everyone involved and of course for our Japanese partners and friends also. It also sends a strong message."

But athletes can briefly take them off on the podium for 30 seconds for a photo opportunity, the IOC said, 
During Sunday's mornings swimming finals as American Chase Kalisz took off his mask on the winners' podium after his gold medal performance in the men's 400 metres medley.

He was on the podium, next to mask-less compatriot and silver medallist Jay Literland and Australian Brendon Smith, who took the bronze, who was also removed his mask.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-pv-sindhu-wins-opening-match-against-israels-ksenia-polikarpova-400451" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu wins opening match against Israel's Ksenia Polikarpova</a>

"The swimmers in the venue this morning followed instructions which they were given by the protocol team," an IOC spokesperson said. "These instructions were in line with a new policy which in the process of being communicated to all."

"It allows for a socially distanced photo opportunity for a maximum of 30 seconds on the podium." 
Team Australia also confirmed their athletes had done nothing wrong.

"Our athletes were simply following the direction of the official at the podium, who holds up a sign saying masks off briefly for the photographs," a Team Australia official said.

The Tokyo Olympics are held mostly without spectators as the capital has seen a rise in daily cases in recent weeks.

All 12 athletes from Australia, Canada and the United States on the podium for the women's 4X100 freestyle relay ceremony were mask-less, smiling to photographers.

The Olympic teams of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan had paraded mostly mask-less through the National Stadium at Friday's (July 23) opening ceremony, marking an awkward contrast with other national teams who covered their faces in line with COVID-19 protocols.

Organisers announced another 10 positive COVID-19 cases to Games-related individuals on Sunday, bringing the total to 132 cases since July 1

Athletes must wear masks throughout the Tokyo Olympic Games venues, including medal ceremonies, the International Olympic Committee said on Sunday (July 25), but according to a new policy they are briefly allowed to remove it on the podium for a photo opportunity.

Athletes must wear masks throughout the Tokyo Olympic Games venues, including medal ceremonies, the International Olympic Committee said on Sunday (July 25), but according to a new policy they are briefly allowed to remove it on the podium for a photo opportunity. Masks are mandatory across all venues, both inside and outside for all athletes, staff and media, as part of Games organisers' strict measures to combat the coronavirus. "It's not a nice to have. It's a must have," said IOC spokesperson Mark Adams, responding to questions about the mask-less swimmers. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal fail to qualify for women's 10m Air Rifle final "No, there is no relaxation and we would urge and ask everyone to obey the rules," the IOC's Adams said. "It's important both for the sports and for everyone involved and of course for our Japanese partners and friends also. It also sends a strong message." But athletes can briefly take them off on the podium for 30 seconds for a photo opportunity, the IOC said, During Sunday's mornings swimming finals as American Chase Kalisz took off his mask on the winners' podium after his gold medal performance in the men's 400 metres medley. He was on the podium, next to mask-less compatriot and silver medallist Jay Literland and Australian Brendon Smith, who took the bronze, who was also removed his mask. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu wins opening match against Israel's Ksenia Polikarpova "The swimmers in the venue this morning followed instructions which they were given by the protocol team," an IOC spokesperson said. "These instructions were in line with a new policy which in the process of being communicated to all." "It allows for a socially distanced photo opportunity for a maximum of 30 seconds on the podium." Team Australia also confirmed their athletes had done nothing wrong. "Our athletes were simply following the direction of the official at the podium, who holds up a sign saying masks off briefly for the photographs," a Team Australia official said. The Tokyo Olympics are held mostly without spectators as the capital has seen a rise in daily cases in recent weeks. All 12 athletes from Australia, Canada and the United States on the podium for the women's 4X100 freestyle relay ceremony were mask-less, smiling to photographers. The Olympic teams of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan had paraded mostly mask-less through the National Stadium at Friday's (July 23) opening ceremony, marking an awkward contrast with other national teams who covered their faces in line with COVID-19 protocols. Organisers announced another 10 positive COVID-19 cases to Games-related individuals on Sunday, bringing the total to 132 cases since July 1

Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment

The Indian rowing duo of Arvind Singh and Arjun Lal Jat qualified for the repechage round after finishing fifth in the men's lightweight double sculls heat here on Saturday.

Competing in heat, the Indian pair finished with a timing of 6:40.33 in the six-team field, failing to qualify for the semifinals.

The top two teams -- Ireland (6:23.74) and Czech Republic (6:28.10) -- advanced to the semifinals while Poland (6:31.85), Ukraine (6:36.05), and Uruguay (6:42.85) moved to the repechage round alongside India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-deepak-kumar-divyansh-panwar-fail-to-qualify-for-10m-air-rifle-mens-final-400473" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Deepak Kumar, Divyansh Panwar fail to qualify for 10m Air Rifle men's final</a>

The repechage round allows boats a second chance to qualify for the quarter-finals, semi-finals, or finals.

While Arjun assumed the role of the bower, Arvind was the stroker. Trailing till the 1500m mark, the duo sped up in the 500m to secure the fifth position.

The event includes two rowers in a scull boat using two oars each. The long, narrow, and broadly semi-circular in cross-section boats helps to reduce the drag.

The maximum weight set for each male competitor is 72.5kg (159.8lbs) and the average weight cannot exceed 70 kg (154.3lbs) while for the female rowers, the maximum individual weight is 59 kg (130.0 lbs) and the average weight cannot be more than 57kg (125.6 lbs).

The Indian rowing duo of Arvind Singh and Arjun Lal Jat qualified for the repechage round after finishing fifth in the men's lightweight double sculls heat here on Saturday.

The Indian rowing duo of Arvind Singh and Arjun Lal Jat qualified for the repechage round after finishing fifth in the men's lightweight double sculls heat here on Saturday. Competing in heat, the Indian pair finished with a timing of 6:40.33 in the six-team field, failing to qualify for the semifinals. The top two teams -- Ireland (6:23.74) and Czech Republic (6:28.10) -- advanced to the semifinals while Poland (6:31.85), Ukraine (6:36.05), and Uruguay (6:42.85) moved to the repechage round alongside India. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Deepak Kumar, Divyansh Panwar fail to qualify for 10m Air Rifle men's final The repechage round allows boats a second chance to qualify for the quarter-finals, semi-finals, or finals. While Arjun assumed the role of the bower, Arvind was the stroker. Trailing till the 1500m mark, the duo sped up in the 500m to secure the fifth position. The event includes two rowers in a scull boat using two oars each. The long, narrow, and broadly semi-circular in cross-section boats helps to reduce the drag. The maximum weight set for each male competitor is 72.5kg (159.8lbs) and the average weight cannot exceed 70 kg (154.3lbs) while for the female rowers, the maximum individual weight is 59 kg (130.0 lbs) and the average weight cannot be more than 57kg (125.6 lbs).

Tokyo Olympics: India’s Arjun Lal Jat, Arvind Singh qualify for Rowing semi-finals

Japan's Yui Ohashi dominated the women’s 400m medley on Sunday, with the 25-year-old winning gold and beating off competitors including world-record holder Hungary's Katinka Hosszu who has presided over the event for the past eight years.

Ohashi accelerated her lead in the breaststroke leg, giving her an extra edge to beat Americans Emma Weyant, who took the silver medal, and Hali Flickinger, who picked up the bronze.

Ohashi finished in a time of 4:32.08, 3.90 seconds ahead of Hosszu who placed fifth with a time of 4:35.98. The Hikone born Ohashi will face Hosszu, who refers to herself as the Iron Lady, in the 200m Medley on Monday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-tennis-sara-sorribes-tormo-upsets-the-world-no1-ashleigh-barty-to-reach-the-2nd-round-400461" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Sara Sorribes Tormo upsets the World no.1 Ashleigh Barty to reach the 2nd round</a>

Wiping away tears as she stood on the podium, Ohashi lifted her gold medal and bouquet of flowers, beaming at her team in the mostly empty stands.

“It doesn’t feel real. It is like a dream for me. I couldn’t go to the Rio&nbsp;Olympics, so for the past five years this became a big dream for me," she said. "This accomplishment is amazing for me."

Ohashi said she had previously contemplated stopping competitive swimming but was able to leverage her experience over the past five years to succeed in Tokyo.

"After the heats yesterday, I thought I might be able to win a gold medal but I didn’t want to think about things too much and I just wanted to focus on my race."

"I just wanted to swim my race and I think that is the biggest reason why I was able to win that gold medal," she said.

"I really felt like I gave it my all."

Japan's Yui Ohashi dominated the women’s 400m medley on Sunday, with the 25-year-old winning gold and beating off competitors including world-record holder Hungary's Katinka Hosszu who has presided over the event for the past eight years.

Japan's Yui Ohashi dominated the women’s 400m medley on Sunday, with the 25-year-old winning gold and beating off competitors including world-record holder Hungary's Katinka Hosszu who has presided over the event for the past eight years. Ohashi accelerated her lead in the breaststroke leg, giving her an extra edge to beat Americans Emma Weyant, who took the silver medal, and Hali Flickinger, who picked up the bronze. Ohashi finished in a time of 4:32.08, 3.90 seconds ahead of Hosszu who placed fifth with a time of 4:35.98. The Hikone born Ohashi will face Hosszu, who refers to herself as the Iron Lady, in the 200m Medley on Monday. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Sara Sorribes Tormo upsets the World no.1 Ashleigh Barty to reach the 2nd round Wiping away tears as she stood on the podium, Ohashi lifted her gold medal and bouquet of flowers, beaming at her team in the mostly empty stands. “It doesn’t feel real. It is like a dream for me. I couldn’t go to the Rio Olympics, so for the past five years this became a big dream for me," she said. "This accomplishment is amazing for me." Ohashi said she had previously contemplated stopping competitive swimming but was able to leverage her experience over the past five years to succeed in Tokyo. "After the heats yesterday, I thought I might be able to win a gold medal but I didn’t want to think about things too much and I just wanted to focus on my race." "I just wanted to swim my race and I think that is the biggest reason why I was able to win that gold medal," she said. "I really felt like I gave it my all."

Tokyo Olympics: Japan's Yui Ohashi ends winning streak of Hungary's 'Iron Lady' with medley gold

India was represented in the 10m Air Pistol men's qualification event by Deepak Kumar and Divyansh Singh Panwar. Six Indian shooters have been in action until now, and only one Indian made it to the final.&nbsp;

Not an amazement, by all means, Saurabh Chaudhary - beat out everyone else in the qualification rounds of the air pistol men's qualification to burst into the final eight.&nbsp;

Nevertheless, the adolescent kicked under pressure and finished at a humble seven, in what came as a discourteous shock to vigorous Indian avid supporters who had written down Saurabh as a definite shot competitor for an Olympic medal this time around.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-manu-bhaker-and-yashaswini-deswal-fail-to-qualify-for-womens-10m-air-rifle-final-400438" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal fail to qualify for women's 10m Air Rifle final</a>

Saurabh's comrade Abhishek Verma made a late surge to fortify his instance of a Top eight completion, yet two sub-10 shots put him out of contention. India likewise participated in Women's 10m Air Rifle qualifiers yesterday, where World No.1, Elavenil Valarivan, and Apurvi Chandela failed to make the cut.

Today morning saw Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal at the 10m Air Pistol Women's Qualifications. Sadly, the two of them smashed out in the qualifiers.&nbsp;

Divyansh Singh Panwar the current World No.2 made his debut in Olympics.&nbsp;He&nbsp;finished his first series with a score of 102.7.&nbsp;

Divyansh heated up series 5 with a score of 104.6 that took his tally up to 519.2.&nbsp;But, he was still ranked 29th.

Deepak Kumar, 33 years of age too made his debut in Tokyo. Deepak is positioned 11th in the rankings. He&nbsp;finished his first series with a score of 102.9&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-pv-sindhu-wins-opening-match-against-israels-ksenia-polikarpova-400451" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu wins opening match against Israel's Ksenia Polikarpova</a>

Deepak Kumar conveyed his best score in series six with 105.3 points. His count climbed to 624.7. Bit, it wasn't adequate enough for him to qualify as the 33-year old crashed&nbsp;out of the opposition completing 24th in the qualification round.&nbsp;

Both the Indians began with extraordinary expectations however neglected to deliver against the opposition. While they made up well in the last half, it was past the point where it is possible to hop up the positions.

India was represented in the 10m Air Pistol men's qualification event by Deepak Kumar and Divyansh Singh Panwar. Six Indian shooters have been in action until now, and only one Indian made it to the final.

India was represented in the 10m Air Pistol men's qualification event by Deepak Kumar and Divyansh Singh Panwar. Six Indian shooters have been in action until now, and only one Indian made it to the final. Not an amazement, by all means, Saurabh Chaudhary - beat out everyone else in the qualification rounds of the air pistol men's qualification to burst into the final eight. Nevertheless, the adolescent kicked under pressure and finished at a humble seven, in what came as a discourteous shock to vigorous Indian avid supporters who had written down Saurabh as a definite shot competitor for an Olympic medal this time around. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal fail to qualify for women's 10m Air Rifle final Saurabh's comrade Abhishek Verma made a late surge to fortify his instance of a Top eight completion, yet two sub-10 shots put him out of contention. India likewise participated in Women's 10m Air Rifle qualifiers yesterday, where World No.1, Elavenil Valarivan, and Apurvi Chandela failed to make the cut. Today morning saw Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal at the 10m Air Pistol Women's Qualifications. Sadly, the two of them smashed out in the qualifiers. Divyansh Singh Panwar the current World No.2 made his debut in Olympics. He finished his first series with a score of 102.7. Divyansh heated up series 5 with a score of 104.6 that took his tally up to 519.2. But, he was still ranked 29th. Deepak Kumar, 33 years of age too made his debut in Tokyo. Deepak is positioned 11th in the rankings. He finished his first series with a score of 102.9 ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu wins opening match against Israel's Ksenia Polikarpova Deepak Kumar conveyed his best score in series six with 105.3 points. His count climbed to 624.7. Bit, it wasn't adequate enough for him to qualify as the 33-year old crashed out of the opposition completing 24th in the qualification round. Both the Indians began with extraordinary expectations however neglected to deliver against the opposition. While they made up well in the last half, it was past the point where it is possible to hop up the positions.

Tokyo Olympics: Deepak Kumar, Divyansh Panwar fail to qualify for 10m Air Rifle men's final

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu made history as she secured the silver medal in the women's 49 kg rivalry. This is India's first medal in the Tokyo Olympics. Mirabai Chanu lifted 87 kg in the grab and then guaranteed herself of the silver by lifting 115 kg in clean and jerk.

Yet, aside from her preeminent strength which was at show, Chanu's earrings the five Olympics rings were in concentrate as well.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-mirabai-chanus-exclusive-interview-right-after-silver-medal-win-watch-400412" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Mirabai Chanu's exclusive interview right after silver medal win | Watch</a>

Netizens were quick to notice the special&nbsp;earrings as they showered praises upon the Manipur-born weightlifter.&nbsp;

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After failing to win a medal at Rio 2016, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mirabai_Chanu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mirabai_Chanu</a> wore Olympic earrings for four years straight to remind her that the same would not happen in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a>. 
 
They were gifted by her mother to never forget her Olympic dream. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/silver?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#silver</a>
— Saahir Banwait (@saahirofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/saahirofficial/status/1418857511537545222?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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‘Bharat’ where still in 2020 individuals seek blessings of their parents, relatives, community et al before a major pursuit!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/inspiring?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#inspiring</a> 
 
Tokyo Games: Mirabai Chanu's Mother In Tears As Daughter Sports "Good Luck" Earrings She Gifted In Olympic Super Show <a href="https://t.co/lMecCs6suw">https://t.co/lMecCs6suw</a>
— Bharat🇮🇳 (@imvivekpuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/imvivekpuri/status/1418884105278791683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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We all can feel it 👏👏🇮🇳 
I just noticed her earrings ...Wow.. Olympic rings 👍
— What she thinks 🇮🇳 (@Kajukatli15) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kajukatli15/status/1418850531292889099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"I saw the earrings on TV, I gave them to her in 2016 before the Rio Olympics. I have made it for her from the gold pieces and savings I have so that it brings luck and success," said Leima&nbsp;(Mirabai Chanu's mother) to PTI.&nbsp;

"I was in tears seeing it and also during the moment, she won the medal. Her father was also in tears. Tears of joy. All her hard work has led to the success."

Presently, Mirabai Chanu has become just the second Indian woman weightlifter after Karnam Malleswari to win an Olympic weightlifting medal. Karnam Malleswari had won a bronze at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.&nbsp;

Mirabai Chanu became the fifth Indian female athlete to have won an individual Olympic award. Prior to her, Malleswari, Saina Nehwal, PV Sindhu, and Sakshi Malik have accomplished the feat.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>&nbsp;

<img alt="Gold medalist Hou Zhihui of China, Silver medalist Mirabai Chanu Saikhom of India and Bronze medalist Windy Cantika Aisah of Indonesia pose." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bc96a4aa-9c1b-4f86-bc81-031aeec1d976" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mirabai%20Chanu%20%282%29_0.jpg" />

Mirabai Chanu ended India's 21-year wait for a weightlifting medal at the Olympics by securing a silver medal in the 49kg class to open the nation's account on Saturday.&nbsp;

The 26-year-old lifted a sum of 202kg (87kg+115kg). With this, she exorcized the apparitions of the 2016 Games where she had neglected to log a solitary lift.

After winning the medal, Chanu spoke exclusively to WION and&nbsp;opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tokyo-olympics-2020-top-7-teenagers-from-india-set-to-shine-in-the-greatest-extravaganza-400295" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Top 7 teenagers from India set to shine in the greatest extravaganza</a>

Watch her exclusive interview here:

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Click <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">here</a> for all Olympics updates!&nbsp;

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu made history as she secured the silver medal in the women's 49 kg rivalry. This is India's first medal in the Tokyo Olympics. Mirabai Chanu lifted 87 kg in the grab and then guaranteed herself of the silver by lifting 115 kg in clean and jerk.

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu made history as she secured the silver medal in the women's 49 kg rivalry. This is India's first medal in the Tokyo Olympics. Mirabai Chanu lifted 87 kg in the grab and then guaranteed herself of the silver by lifting 115 kg in clean and jerk. Yet, aside from her preeminent strength which was at show, Chanu's earrings the five Olympics rings were in concentrate as well. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Mirabai Chanu's exclusive interview right after silver medal win | Watch Netizens were quick to notice the special earrings as they showered praises upon the Manipur-born weightlifter. After failing to win a medal at Rio 2016, #Mirabai_Chanu wore Olympic earrings for four years straight to remind her that the same would not happen in #Tokyo2020. They were gifted by her mother to never forget her Olympic dream. #silver — Saahir Banwait (@saahirofficial) July 24, 2021 × ‘Bharat’ where still in 2020 individuals seek blessings of their parents, relatives, community et al before a major pursuit!!! #inspiring Tokyo Games: Mirabai Chanu's Mother In Tears As Daughter Sports "Good Luck" Earrings She Gifted In Olympic Super Show https://t.co/lMecCs6suw — Bharat🇮🇳 (@imvivekpuri) July 24, 2021 × We all can feel it 👏👏🇮🇳 I just noticed her earrings ...Wow.. Olympic rings 👍 — What she thinks 🇮🇳 (@Kajukatli15) July 24, 2021 × "I saw the earrings on TV, I gave them to her in 2016 before the Rio Olympics. I have made it for her from the gold pieces and savings I have so that it brings luck and success," said Leima (Mirabai Chanu's mother) to PTI. "I was in tears seeing it and also during the moment, she won the medal. Her father was also in tears. Tears of joy. All her hard work has led to the success." Presently, Mirabai Chanu has become just the second Indian woman weightlifter after Karnam Malleswari to win an Olympic weightlifting medal. Karnam Malleswari had won a bronze at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Mirabai Chanu became the fifth Indian female athlete to have won an individual Olympic award. Prior to her, Malleswari, Saina Nehwal, PV Sindhu, and Sakshi Malik have accomplished the feat. IN PICS | Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! Mirabai Chanu ended India's 21-year wait for a weightlifting medal at the Olympics by securing a silver medal in the 49kg class to open the nation's account on Saturday. The 26-year-old lifted a sum of 202kg (87kg+115kg). With this, she exorcized the apparitions of the 2016 Games where she had neglected to log a solitary lift. After winning the medal, Chanu spoke exclusively to WION and opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Top 7 teenagers from India set to shine in the greatest extravaganza Watch her exclusive interview here: × Click here for all Olympics updates!

Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show

NBC's&nbsp;broadcast&nbsp;of the&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Games&nbsp;opening&nbsp;ceremony&nbsp;drew&nbsp;16.7&nbsp;million&nbsp;viewers, the&nbsp;smallest&nbsp;U.S.&nbsp;television&nbsp;audience&nbsp;for the&nbsp;event&nbsp;in the&nbsp;past&nbsp;33&nbsp;years,&nbsp;according&nbsp;to&nbsp;preliminary&nbsp;data&nbsp;from Comcast-owned NBCUniversal on Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-mens-hockey-australia-thrash-india-7-1-in-pool-a-game-400549" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics, Men's Hockey: Australia thrash India 7-1 in Pool A game</a>

Across all platforms, including NBCOlympics.com and the NBC Sports app, 17&nbsp;million&nbsp;people watched the&nbsp;ceremony, NBCUniversal said in an email.

The streaming&nbsp;audience&nbsp;on those platforms grew 76% from the 2018 PyeongChang&nbsp;opening&nbsp;ceremony&nbsp;and 72% from the 2016 Rio opener, reflecting a change in viewing habits.

Friday's&nbsp;audience&nbsp;reflects a steep drop, despite difficult comparisons with previous&nbsp;opening&nbsp;ceremonies when&nbsp;viewers&nbsp;had fewer streaming options.

The&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;opener&nbsp;TV&nbsp;audience&nbsp;declined 37% from 2016, when 26.5&nbsp;million&nbsp;people watched the Rio de Janeiro&nbsp;Games&nbsp;opener, and 59% from 2012, when 40.7&nbsp;million&nbsp;people watched the London&nbsp;ceremony.

It was the&nbsp;lowest&nbsp;audience&nbsp;for the&nbsp;opening&nbsp;ceremony&nbsp;since the 1988 Seoul&nbsp;Games, which attracted 22.7&nbsp;million&nbsp;TV&nbsp;viewers. It was also&nbsp;lower than the 1992 Barcelona&nbsp;Games, when 21.6&nbsp;million&nbsp;people tuned in,&nbsp;according&nbsp;to Nielsen&nbsp;data.

The Rio, London, Barcelona and Seoul numbers reflect final ratings&nbsp;data&nbsp;not yet available for the&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;Games&nbsp;opener.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Friday's scaled-down&nbsp;opening&nbsp;event&nbsp;took place with fewer than 1,000 attendees at the&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Stadium under strict social distancing rules.

Major absences included former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who had wooed the&nbsp;games&nbsp;to&nbsp;Tokyo, and top sponsors, as the&nbsp;event&nbsp;faced strong opposition in COVID-fatigued Japan.

With&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;13 hours&nbsp;ahead of the&nbsp;U.S. East Coast, NBC for the first time&nbsp;broadcast&nbsp;the&nbsp;ceremony&nbsp;live in the morning, at 6:55 a.m. ET Friday.&nbsp;NBC's&nbsp;taped, primetime&nbsp;broadcast&nbsp;began at 7:30 p.m. ET.

In its primetime coverage, NBC acknowledged the pandemic and its toll while presenting the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;as a positive&nbsp;event.

"Absence makes the heart grow fonder," said host Savannah Guthrie, co-anchor of NBC News' "Today" morning show. "There's nothing like an&nbsp;opening&nbsp;ceremony&nbsp;to really get you excited for the&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Games."

NBCUniversal has aggressively pushed its digital platforms this&nbsp;year&nbsp;and views the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;as a vital driver of subscribers for its Peacock streaming service.

The company plans to air an "unprecedented" 7,000 hours&nbsp;of&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;coverage across its multiple&nbsp;television&nbsp;networks and Peacock. These include some of the most anticipated&nbsp;events, such as gymnastics and&nbsp;U.S. Men's basketball, on the streaming platform. It will also stream over 5,500 hours&nbsp;of the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;on NBCOlympics.com and its sports app.

Not all athletes were present at the teams' parade during the&nbsp;opening&nbsp;ceremony, due to rules that require many to fly in just before their competitions and leave shortly after to limit social contact.

The&nbsp;TV&nbsp;rating drop is part of a trend among live&nbsp;TV&nbsp;events, including awards shows and sports.

February's Super Bowl&nbsp;broadcast&nbsp;on CBS, a ViacomCBS unit, attracted an average of about 92&nbsp;million&nbsp;viewers,&nbsp;according&nbsp;to Nielsen&nbsp;data, the&nbsp;lowest since 2006. The April Oscars telecast on Walt Disney Co's ABC&nbsp;broadcast&nbsp;network averaged 10.4&nbsp;million, a record&nbsp;low, Nielsen said.&nbsp;Audiences for the most recent Emmys and Grammys also hit new&nbsp;lows.

NBCUniversal, which paid $7.65 billion to extend its&nbsp;U.S.&nbsp;broadcast&nbsp;rights for the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;through 2032, is framing the&nbsp;games&nbsp;as a "healing"&nbsp;event, despite scepticism from many Japanese citizens about the wisdom of holding even a scaled-down&nbsp;Games&nbsp;during a pandemic.

In June NBCUniversal said it had signed over 120 advertisers for the&nbsp;games, more than any other&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;broadcast. An NBCUniversal spokesperson said that month the company was on track to exceed the $1.2 billion in ads sold for the 2016 Rio&nbsp;Olympics but declined to say whether it would beat the $1.25 billion sold last&nbsp;year&nbsp;before the&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;Games&nbsp;were postponed.

Ratings are not an indication of profitability. Despite a drop in overall&nbsp;viewership from the 2012 London&nbsp;Olympics, NBC earned more than $250&nbsp;million&nbsp;from its Rio&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;coverage, with ad sales up more than 20% from London.

In June NBCUniversal Chief Executive Jeff Shell said the&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;Games&nbsp;could be the most profitable&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;in NBC’s history.

NBC's broadcast of the Tokyo Olympic Games opening ceremony drew 16.7 million viewers, the smallest U.S. television audience for the event in the past 33 years, according to preliminary data from Comcast-owned NBCUniversal on Saturday.

NBC's broadcast of the Tokyo Olympic Games opening ceremony drew 16.7 million viewers, the smallest U.S. television audience for the event in the past 33 years, according to preliminary data from Comcast-owned NBCUniversal on Saturday. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics, Men's Hockey: Australia thrash India 7-1 in Pool A game Across all platforms, including NBCOlympics.com and the NBC Sports app, 17 million people watched the ceremony, NBCUniversal said in an email. The streaming audience on those platforms grew 76% from the 2018 PyeongChang opening ceremony and 72% from the 2016 Rio opener, reflecting a change in viewing habits. Friday's audience reflects a steep drop, despite difficult comparisons with previous opening ceremonies when viewers had fewer streaming options. The Tokyo opener TV audience declined 37% from 2016, when 26.5 million people watched the Rio de Janeiro Games opener, and 59% from 2012, when 40.7 million people watched the London ceremony. It was the lowest audience for the opening ceremony since the 1988 Seoul Games, which attracted 22.7 million TV viewers. It was also lower than the 1992 Barcelona Games, when 21.6 million people tuned in, according to Nielsen data. The Rio, London, Barcelona and Seoul numbers reflect final ratings data not yet available for the Tokyo Games opener. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Friday's scaled-down opening event took place with fewer than 1,000 attendees at the Olympic Stadium under strict social distancing rules. Major absences included former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who had wooed the games to Tokyo, and top sponsors, as the event faced strong opposition in COVID-fatigued Japan. With Tokyo 13 hours ahead of the U.S. East Coast, NBC for the first time broadcast the ceremony live in the morning, at 6:55 a.m. ET Friday. NBC's taped, primetime broadcast began at 7:30 p.m. ET. In its primetime coverage, NBC acknowledged the pandemic and its toll while presenting the Olympics as a positive event. "Absence makes the heart grow fonder," said host Savannah Guthrie, co-anchor of NBC News' "Today" morning show. "There's nothing like an opening ceremony to really get you excited for the Olympic Games." NBCUniversal has aggressively pushed its digital platforms this year and views the Olympics as a vital driver of subscribers for its Peacock streaming service. The company plans to air an "unprecedented" 7,000 hours of Olympics coverage across its multiple television networks and Peacock. These include some of the most anticipated events, such as gymnastics and U.S. Men's basketball, on the streaming platform. It will also stream over 5,500 hours of the Olympics on NBCOlympics.com and its sports app. Not all athletes were present at the teams' parade during the opening ceremony, due to rules that require many to fly in just before their competitions and leave shortly after to limit social contact. The TV rating drop is part of a trend among live TV events, including awards shows and sports. February's Super Bowl broadcast on CBS, a ViacomCBS unit, attracted an average of about 92 million viewers, according to Nielsen data, the lowest since 2006. The April Oscars telecast on Walt Disney Co's ABC broadcast network averaged 10.4 million, a record low, Nielsen said. Audiences for the most recent Emmys and Grammys also hit new lows. NBCUniversal, which paid $7.65 billion to extend its U.S. broadcast rights for the Olympics through 2032, is framing the games as a "healing" event, despite scepticism from many Japanese citizens about the wisdom of holding even a scaled-down Games during a pandemic. In June NBCUniversal said it had signed over 120 advertisers for the games, more than any other Olympics broadcast. An NBCUniversal spokesperson said that month the company was on track to exceed the $1.2 billion in ads sold for the 2016 Rio Olympics but declined to say whether it would beat the $1.25 billion sold last year before the Tokyo Games were postponed. Ratings are not an indication of profitability. Despite a drop in overall viewership from the 2012 London Olympics, NBC earned more than $250 million from its Rio Olympics coverage, with ad sales up more than 20% from London. In June NBCUniversal Chief Executive Jeff Shell said the Tokyo Games could be the most profitable Olympics in NBC’s history.

Tokyo Olympics opening draws 16.7 million US TV viewers, a 33-year low

Simone&nbsp;Biles&nbsp;will get a chance to atone for an uninspiring qualifying effort on Sunday and get a shot at six gold medals that would enshrine the American gymnast in the pantheon of all-time Olympic greats.

Already regarded as one of the sport's all-time greats,&nbsp;Biles&nbsp;arrived in Tokyo targeting a record haul.

The American currently shares the women's gymnastics record of capturing four golds at a single Olympics with a number of others, including Larisa Latynina, Vera Caslavska, and Ecaterina Szabo.

The 24-year-old had been expected to launch an all-out assault on the podium and record books in Tokyo but her first appearance at the Ariake Gymnastics Stadium was not without a bit of stress and drama as she had to wait until well into the evening before finding out if she was among the eight qualifiers to make the cut for the asymmetric bars and balance beam finals.

After completing her last routine on the beam, a grim-faced&nbsp;Biles&nbsp;looked up at the scoreboard and exited the arena without talking to the media.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-mens-hockey-australia-thrash-india-7-1-in-pool-a-game-400549" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Australia thrash India 7-1 in Men's Pool A game</a>

Despite some initial disappointment with her effort,&nbsp;Biles&nbsp;will have a packed program in Tokyo leading the U.S. defense of their team title and her all-around crown. She will then compete in the finals of the beam, uneven bars, vault, and floor exercise.

If the Americans, who were surprisingly pipped by the Russians in qualifying, capture the team gold on Tuesday,&nbsp;Biles&nbsp;could potentially win six golds.

With the five medals she won in Rio in 2016,&nbsp;Biles&nbsp;needs three more to move past Shannon Miller as the most decorated U.S. gymnast.

Four more and she will also break the gymnastics record of combined world and Olympic 33-medal haul held by Vitaly Scherbo of Belarus.

With no spectators allowed inside the arena due to COVID-19 restrictions, it was very much a business-like effort by&nbsp;Biles&nbsp;and her American teammates. However, it was far from business as usual with a resurgent Russian team firing a warning shot.

Russia, competing in Tokyo as representatives of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) because the country was stripped of its flag and anthem for doping offenses, have not won the women's team title since the United Team struck gold at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-naomi-osaka-refreshed-and-ready-after-first-win-since-may-400534" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Naomi Osaka refreshed and ready after first win since May</a>

On Sunday, they earned a combined total of 171.629, more than a full point clear of the Americans, who finished with 170.562.

The U.S. has won the team event in every Olympics and world championship since 2011.

Even without the presence of thousands of screaming fans, the spotlight in a near-empty arena seldom strayed from&nbsp;Biles, who was the focus of attention each time she stepped up to a piece of equipment.

With zero energy in the building,&nbsp;Biles&nbsp;got the competition off to a flat start by flying off the mat with both feet at the end of one tumbling pass during her floor exercise.

But such was the degree of difficulty of her routine that even with the big error she still drew the second-highest score, behind only Vanessa Ferrari of Italy.

She finished with the top mark in the vault but could not find her best form on the beam and asymmetric bars.

In fact, her score of 14.566 on the uneven bars left her trailing in 10th but she squeezed into the final thanks to an Olympic rule that limits only two finalists per nation, with two higher-placed Russians missing out.

While the U.S. were not the dominant force many expected, USA Gymnastics team coordinator Tom Forster reminded everyone there were no medals handed out on Sunday.

"Mentally we're going to be okay," assured Forster. "It's just about being focused.

"This is not the finals, this is getting into the finals. So this might be a great awakening for us, and we'll take advantage of it.

"Sometimes, just like in any other sport, great athletes drop the ball in the end-zone or a quarterback throws an interception. It happens."

Simone Biles will get a chance to atone for an uninspiring qualifying effort on Sunday and get a shot at six gold medals that would enshrine the American gymnast in the pantheon of all-time Olympic greats.

Simone Biles will get a chance to atone for an uninspiring qualifying effort on Sunday and get a shot at six gold medals that would enshrine the American gymnast in the pantheon of all-time Olympic greats. Already regarded as one of the sport's all-time greats, Biles arrived in Tokyo targeting a record haul. The American currently shares the women's gymnastics record of capturing four golds at a single Olympics with a number of others, including Larisa Latynina, Vera Caslavska, and Ecaterina Szabo. The 24-year-old had been expected to launch an all-out assault on the podium and record books in Tokyo but her first appearance at the Ariake Gymnastics Stadium was not without a bit of stress and drama as she had to wait until well into the evening before finding out if she was among the eight qualifiers to make the cut for the asymmetric bars and balance beam finals. After completing her last routine on the beam, a grim-faced Biles looked up at the scoreboard and exited the arena without talking to the media. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Australia thrash India 7-1 in Men's Pool A game Despite some initial disappointment with her effort, Biles will have a packed program in Tokyo leading the U.S. defense of their team title and her all-around crown. She will then compete in the finals of the beam, uneven bars, vault, and floor exercise. If the Americans, who were surprisingly pipped by the Russians in qualifying, capture the team gold on Tuesday, Biles could potentially win six golds. With the five medals she won in Rio in 2016, Biles needs three more to move past Shannon Miller as the most decorated U.S. gymnast. Four more and she will also break the gymnastics record of combined world and Olympic 33-medal haul held by Vitaly Scherbo of Belarus. With no spectators allowed inside the arena due to COVID-19 restrictions, it was very much a business-like effort by Biles and her American teammates. However, it was far from business as usual with a resurgent Russian team firing a warning shot. Russia, competing in Tokyo as representatives of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) because the country was stripped of its flag and anthem for doping offenses, have not won the women's team title since the United Team struck gold at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Naomi Osaka refreshed and ready after first win since May On Sunday, they earned a combined total of 171.629, more than a full point clear of the Americans, who finished with 170.562. The U.S. has won the team event in every Olympics and world championship since 2011. Even without the presence of thousands of screaming fans, the spotlight in a near-empty arena seldom strayed from Biles, who was the focus of attention each time she stepped up to a piece of equipment. With zero energy in the building, Biles got the competition off to a flat start by flying off the mat with both feet at the end of one tumbling pass during her floor exercise. But such was the degree of difficulty of her routine that even with the big error she still drew the second-highest score, behind only Vanessa Ferrari of Italy. She finished with the top mark in the vault but could not find her best form on the beam and asymmetric bars. In fact, her score of 14.566 on the uneven bars left her trailing in 10th but she squeezed into the final thanks to an Olympic rule that limits only two finalists per nation, with two higher-placed Russians missing out. While the U.S. were not the dominant force many expected, USA Gymnastics team coordinator Tom Forster reminded everyone there were no medals handed out on Sunday. "Mentally we're going to be okay," assured Forster. "It's just about being focused. "This is not the finals, this is getting into the finals. So this might be a great awakening for us, and we'll take advantage of it. "Sometimes, just like in any other sport, great athletes drop the ball in the end-zone or a quarterback throws an interception. It happens."

Tokyo Olympics: US' Simone Biles remains on track for six golds

World number one Ashleigh Barty smashed out of the Olympic knocked out of the singles tennis event in the opening round on Sunday, losing 6-4, 6-3 to Spain's Sara Sorribes Tormo.

Only two weeks after winning her first title at Wimbledon, the No. 1-positioned Ashleigh Barty fell in straight sets to Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain.

Under a searing sun that joined with high dampness and temperatures over 90 degrees, Ashleigh Barty never discovered her cadence against the 24-year-old Spaniard.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-manu-bhaker-and-yashaswini-deswal-fail-to-qualify-for-womens-10m-air-rifle-final-400438" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal fail to qualify for women's 10m Air Rifle final</a>

The defending Wimbledon champion, dropped serve twice in each set as 48th-positioned Sorribes Tormo made only five unforced errors to the Australian's 27 to procure a win.

She saved two set points in the initial set, and two match points while serving at 3-5 in the subsequent set. Yet, on Sorribes Tormo's third possibility, Ashleigh Barty got a backhand volley, one last mistake in a 94-minute match that was loaded up with them.&nbsp;

Ashleigh Barty was a favorite and the top pick in Tokyo 2020 and now that she has been eliminated the women's tennis is an open contest.

World number one Ashleigh Barty smashed out of the Olympic knocked out of the singles tennis event in the opening round on Sunday, losing 6-4, 6-3 to Spain's Sara Sorribes Tormo.

World number one Ashleigh Barty smashed out of the Olympic knocked out of the singles tennis event in the opening round on Sunday, losing 6-4, 6-3 to Spain's Sara Sorribes Tormo. Only two weeks after winning her first title at Wimbledon, the No. 1-positioned Ashleigh Barty fell in straight sets to Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain. Under a searing sun that joined with high dampness and temperatures over 90 degrees, Ashleigh Barty never discovered her cadence against the 24-year-old Spaniard. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal fail to qualify for women's 10m Air Rifle final The defending Wimbledon champion, dropped serve twice in each set as 48th-positioned Sorribes Tormo made only five unforced errors to the Australian's 27 to procure a win. She saved two set points in the initial set, and two match points while serving at 3-5 in the subsequent set. Yet, on Sorribes Tormo's third possibility, Ashleigh Barty got a backhand volley, one last mistake in a 94-minute match that was loaded up with them. Ashleigh Barty was a favorite and the top pick in Tokyo 2020 and now that she has been eliminated the women's tennis is an open contest.

Tokyo 2020: Tennis - Sara Sorribes Tormo upsets the World no.1 Ashleigh Barty to reach the 2nd round

Defending champion Britain's Andy Murray pulled out from the men's singles tournament of Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (July 25) due to a minor thigh strain. As per the released statement, Murray informed that he is "really disappointed" and have made the "difficult decision" to withdraw from the singles.

The 34-year-old was due to play Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime and after pulling out, he has been replaced in the singles draw by Australian Max Purcell.&nbsp;

Murray, who won his opening men's double match with Joe Salisbury on Saturday, has pulled out only from singles and will continue to play men's doubles tournament as it has been advised to not play in both the events.&nbsp;

"I am really disappointed at having to withdraw but the medical staff have advised me against playing in both events," a statement from Murray read.

"I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the singles and focus on playing doubles with Joe."

Andy Murray won his first singles gold at London Olympics in 2012 and he went on to defend it successfully in Rio Olympics. However, after that, he underwent hip surgery in 2018 and 2019 and also missed some tournaments owing to that.&nbsp;

After his withdrawal, Liam Broady remains the only representative of Great Britain in the singles as Heather Watson lost in the first round.&nbsp;

With his partner Salisbury, Murray will now face German pair Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz in the second round.

Defending champion Britain's Andy Murray pulled out from the men's singles tournament of Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (July 25) due to a minor thigh strain. As per the released statement, Murray informed that he is "really disappointed" and have made the "difficult decision" to withdraw from the singles.

Defending champion Britain's Andy Murray pulled out from the men's singles tournament of Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (July 25) due to a minor thigh strain. As per the released statement, Murray informed that he is "really disappointed" and have made the "difficult decision" to withdraw from the singles. The 34-year-old was due to play Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime and after pulling out, he has been replaced in the singles draw by Australian Max Purcell. Murray, who won his opening men's double match with Joe Salisbury on Saturday, has pulled out only from singles and will continue to play men's doubles tournament as it has been advised to not play in both the events. "I am really disappointed at having to withdraw but the medical staff have advised me against playing in both events," a statement from Murray read. "I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the singles and focus on playing doubles with Joe." Andy Murray won his first singles gold at London Olympics in 2012 and he went on to defend it successfully in Rio Olympics. However, after that, he underwent hip surgery in 2018 and 2019 and also missed some tournaments owing to that. After his withdrawal, Liam Broady remains the only representative of Great Britain in the singles as Heather Watson lost in the first round. With his partner Salisbury, Murray will now face German pair Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz in the second round.

Tokyo Olympics: Andy Murray withdraws from tennis singles due to thigh strain, remains in doubles

Australia shattered the women's 4x100m freestyle world record to win gold at the Tokyo Olympics Sunday, clocking 3mins 29.69 secs to better their own mark set three years ago.

The team of Cate Campbell, Emma McKeon, Meg Harris and Bronte Campbell lowered the 3:30.05 Australia set at the 2018 Commonwealth Games to reinforce their dominance of the event.

Canada came second and the United States third.

Gold medal glory for the Australian relay squad was never in doubt after they qualified for the final nearly two seconds clear of The Netherlands.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-pv-sindhu-wins-opening-match-against-israels-ksenia-polikarpova-400451" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu wins opening match against Israel's Ksenia Polikarpova</a>

Since taking nearly a full second off a super-suited world record in 2014, they have been dominant, winning the two previous Olympic golds, the 2019 world championships while setting two more world records in 2016 and 2018.

And they added to their glorious haul Sunday.

Emma McKeon swum the fifth fastest relay split in history over leg three to pull them clear after Bronte Campbell and Meg Harris gave them a decent start.

Sprint veteran Cate Campbell then brought the team home in 3:29.69 secs to better their own mark set three years ago.

Meanwhile, Rio Olympic runner-up&nbsp;Chase Kalisz went one better to claim gold in the men's 400m individual medley for the United States.

He led by a body length after 300 metres and came home strongly in 4mins 09.42secs ahead of second-placed compatriot Jay Litherland (4:10.28) and Australia's Brendon Smith (4:10.38)

"It means the world. This is the last thing I really wanted to accomplish in my swimming career," said Kalisz, who made the most of defending champion Kosuke Hagino opting not to swim the event on home soil.

"It was a dream of mine since as long as I can remember."

Adam Peaty's drive to become the first British swimmer to successfully defend an Olympic title was ramped up a notch when he hit the wall in 57.63 to lead the men into the 100m breaststroke final on Monday.

Dutchman Arno Kamminga was second quickest in 58.19.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Australia shattered the women's 4x100m freestyle world record to win gold at the Tokyo Olympics Sunday, clocking 3mins 29.69 secs to better their own mark set three years ago.

Australia shattered the women's 4x100m freestyle world record to win gold at the Tokyo Olympics Sunday, clocking 3mins 29.69 secs to better their own mark set three years ago. The team of Cate Campbell, Emma McKeon, Meg Harris and Bronte Campbell lowered the 3:30.05 Australia set at the 2018 Commonwealth Games to reinforce their dominance of the event. Canada came second and the United States third. Gold medal glory for the Australian relay squad was never in doubt after they qualified for the final nearly two seconds clear of The Netherlands. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu wins opening match against Israel's Ksenia Polikarpova Since taking nearly a full second off a super-suited world record in 2014, they have been dominant, winning the two previous Olympic golds, the 2019 world championships while setting two more world records in 2016 and 2018. And they added to their glorious haul Sunday. Emma McKeon swum the fifth fastest relay split in history over leg three to pull them clear after Bronte Campbell and Meg Harris gave them a decent start. Sprint veteran Cate Campbell then brought the team home in 3:29.69 secs to better their own mark set three years ago. Meanwhile, Rio Olympic runner-up Chase Kalisz went one better to claim gold in the men's 400m individual medley for the United States. He led by a body length after 300 metres and came home strongly in 4mins 09.42secs ahead of second-placed compatriot Jay Litherland (4:10.28) and Australia's Brendon Smith (4:10.38) "It means the world. This is the last thing I really wanted to accomplish in my swimming career," said Kalisz, who made the most of defending champion Kosuke Hagino opting not to swim the event on home soil. "It was a dream of mine since as long as I can remember." Adam Peaty's drive to become the first British swimmer to successfully defend an Olympic title was ramped up a notch when he hit the wall in 57.63 to lead the men into the 100m breaststroke final on Monday. Dutchman Arno Kamminga was second quickest in 58.19.

Tokyo Olympics: Australia smash world record to win women's 4x100m relay gold medal

Indian badminton star and Olympic silver medallist PV Sindhu started her campaign with a comfortable 21-7, 21-10 victory over Ksenia Polikarpova of Israel in her first match of Group J of the women’s singles at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday (July 25).

Sindhu lost the first two points but soon bounced back with frequent cross-court shots to register an easy win in straight games.&nbsp;

In the first game, the reigning badminton world champion won 13 points in a row at one point to get a lead but dropped two points. She then took control and finished the game within 13 minutes.&nbsp;

While in the second game, Sindhu was attacking and the opponent made some errors too. The Indian star wrapped up the victory in just 29 minutes.

In her next match, PV Sindhu will take on Hong Kong’s Cheung Ngan Yi on or before July 28.&nbsp;

Sindhu is hoping to bag the gold medal this time as she has the agony of losing the elusive gold in Rio after getting defeated by Spain's Carolina Marin, who withdrew from the Tokyo Games after tearing her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Sindhu had said that she will "miss her and that rivalry on the court". She added that "even though she's not there it's still not going to be easy" as she has will some fierce competitors like Taiwan's Tai Tzu-Ying, China's Chen Yu Fei and Japan's Akane Yamaguchi.&nbsp;

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PV Sindhu wins her opening group match at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> defeating Ksenia Polikarpova of Israel 21-7, 21-10<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://t.co/XWwA2chmxO">pic.twitter.com/XWwA2chmxO</a>
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Yesterday, India opened the medal tally after&nbsp;weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category.&nbsp;

Indian badminton star and Olympic silver medallist PV Sindhu started her campaign with a comfortable 21-7, 21-10 victory over Ksenia Polikarpova of Israel in her first match of Group J of the women’s singles at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday (July 25).

Indian badminton star and Olympic silver medallist PV Sindhu started her campaign with a comfortable 21-7, 21-10 victory over Ksenia Polikarpova of Israel in her first match of Group J of the women’s singles at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday (July 25). Sindhu lost the first two points but soon bounced back with frequent cross-court shots to register an easy win in straight games. In the first game, the reigning badminton world champion won 13 points in a row at one point to get a lead but dropped two points. She then took control and finished the game within 13 minutes. While in the second game, Sindhu was attacking and the opponent made some errors too. The Indian star wrapped up the victory in just 29 minutes. In her next match, PV Sindhu will take on Hong Kong’s Cheung Ngan Yi on or before July 28. Sindhu is hoping to bag the gold medal this time as she has the agony of losing the elusive gold in Rio after getting defeated by Spain's Carolina Marin, who withdrew from the Tokyo Games after tearing her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Sindhu had said that she will "miss her and that rivalry on the court". She added that "even though she's not there it's still not going to be easy" as she has will some fierce competitors like Taiwan's Tai Tzu-Ying, China's Chen Yu Fei and Japan's Akane Yamaguchi. PV Sindhu wins her opening group match at the #Tokyo2020 defeating Ksenia Polikarpova of Israel 21-7, 21-10#Cheer4India pic.twitter.com/XWwA2chmxO — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) July 25, 2021 × Yesterday, India opened the medal tally after weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category.

Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu wins opening match against Israel's Ksenia Polikarpova

After Mirabai Chanu's memorable silver medal in weightlifting lifted Indian competitors' spirits on the first day of the season of the Tokyo Olympics, India hopes to further develop their medal count with numerous events arranged on Day 2.&nbsp;

Following a disillusioning day for the Indian shooting contingent on Day 1, everyone was focused on Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Singh Deswal as they were the first to compete on Day 2.&nbsp;

ALS0 READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-dutch-rowing-coach-tests-positive-for-covid-19-400429" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Dutch rowing coach tests positive for COVID-19</a>

Although, it was an appalling beginning to the day for India as Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal both failed to qualify for the women's 10m air pistol final. Manu with 575 points completed 12th while Yashaswini Singh Deswal finished 13th with 574 points.

The two of them glanced in great touch, yet couldn't make the most of it. Manu Bhaker, specifically, got going in a glorious style before the pistol malfunction perplexed her. Yashaswini, then again, was a slight bit inconsistent and that likely hurt her odds.

The 19-year-old needed an X in her final shot but she shot an eight that unfortunately knocked her out of the competition. It was a tough day for Manu Bhaker as confronted a technical glitch and didn't shoot for five minutes in her third series.&nbsp;

France's Celine Goberville took the final qualification spot with a score of 577 and 15X.&nbsp;Meanwhile, China's Ranxin Jiang broke the Olympic record with a total of 587. She finished her series off with a 100.

Indian shooting contingent, which was anticipated to be India's biggest medal-winning prospect, has drawn clear up until now. In three medal events, India has had just one finalist.

After Mirabai Chanu's memorable silver medal in weightlifting lifted Indian competitors' spirits on the first day of the season of the Tokyo Olympics, India hopes to further develop their medal count with numerous events arranged on Day 2.

After Mirabai Chanu's memorable silver medal in weightlifting lifted Indian competitors' spirits on the first day of the season of the Tokyo Olympics, India hopes to further develop their medal count with numerous events arranged on Day 2. Following a disillusioning day for the Indian shooting contingent on Day 1, everyone was focused on Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Singh Deswal as they were the first to compete on Day 2. ALS0 READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Dutch rowing coach tests positive for COVID-19 Although, it was an appalling beginning to the day for India as Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal both failed to qualify for the women's 10m air pistol final. Manu with 575 points completed 12th while Yashaswini Singh Deswal finished 13th with 574 points. The two of them glanced in great touch, yet couldn't make the most of it. Manu Bhaker, specifically, got going in a glorious style before the pistol malfunction perplexed her. Yashaswini, then again, was a slight bit inconsistent and that likely hurt her odds. The 19-year-old needed an X in her final shot but she shot an eight that unfortunately knocked her out of the competition. It was a tough day for Manu Bhaker as confronted a technical glitch and didn't shoot for five minutes in her third series. France's Celine Goberville took the final qualification spot with a score of 577 and 15X. Meanwhile, China's Ranxin Jiang broke the Olympic record with a total of 587. She finished her series off with a 100. Indian shooting contingent, which was anticipated to be India's biggest medal-winning prospect, has drawn clear up until now. In three medal events, India has had just one finalist.

Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker and Yashaswini Deswal fail to qualify for women's 10m Air Rifle final

India had a disappointing start in the boxing ring at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 after Vikas Krishan lost in the opening round in the 69kg category.&nbsp;However, Mary Kom booked her spot in the Round of 16 after beating Hernandez Garcia Miguelina in the Women’s Fly Preliminaries Round of 32.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-olympics-athletes-must-wear-masks-at-games-apart-from-podium-moment-400491" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment</a>

Mary Kom began dominating the Dominican fighter for the very first round after landing some huge punches. Mary Kom went on to win by split decision and enters in the round of 16.

Mary Kom won 4:1 against Hernandez Garcia Miguelina to get through to the next round.

IN PICS|&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>

Earlier, Indian table tennis star Manika Batra won her second-round clash against Margaryta Pesotska of Ukraine at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday.&nbsp;

Returning from a two-game deficiency, Manika crushed Pesotska 4-11, 4-11, 11-7, 12-10, 8-11, 11-5, 11-7 in 57 minutes.&nbsp;

India's Manika Batra made a comeback to dominate the third match after losing the initial two against Margaryta Pesotska of Ukraine in the second round of the women's singles table tennis event.

India is on the 19th spot in the medal's tally with a silver medal that was won by Mirabai Chanu on Day 2 of the Tokyo Olympics.

India had a disappointing start in the boxing ring at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 after Vikas Krishan lost in the opening round in the 69kg category. However, Mary Kom booked her spot in the Round of 16 after beating Hernandez Garcia Miguelina in the Women’s Fly Preliminaries Round of 32.

India had a disappointing start in the boxing ring at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 after Vikas Krishan lost in the opening round in the 69kg category. However, Mary Kom booked her spot in the Round of 16 after beating Hernandez Garcia Miguelina in the Women’s Fly Preliminaries Round of 32. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment Mary Kom began dominating the Dominican fighter for the very first round after landing some huge punches. Mary Kom went on to win by split decision and enters in the round of 16. Mary Kom won 4:1 against Hernandez Garcia Miguelina to get through to the next round. IN PICS| Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! Earlier, Indian table tennis star Manika Batra won her second-round clash against Margaryta Pesotska of Ukraine at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday. Returning from a two-game deficiency, Manika crushed Pesotska 4-11, 4-11, 11-7, 12-10, 8-11, 11-5, 11-7 in 57 minutes. India's Manika Batra made a comeback to dominate the third match after losing the initial two against Margaryta Pesotska of Ukraine in the second round of the women's singles table tennis event. India is on the 19th spot in the medal's tally with a silver medal that was won by Mirabai Chanu on Day 2 of the Tokyo Olympics.

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Mary Kom through to Round of 16 after beating Hernandez Garcia Miguelina

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

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

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

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

"I shall not march in the (opening ceremony's) Parade of Nations under a flag steeped in my people's blood," said Myanmar's Win Htet Oo, who was supposed to make his Olympic debut as the country's lone swimmer. While nations across the globe are cheering for their players as they win medals at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, a few would remember the sacrifice Oo made after the Myanmar military seized power in a coup in February, earlier this year.&nbsp;

Amid the Tokyo Olympics frenzy and fanfare, it is heartbreaking to see a well-deserved athlete being absent due to political reasons. Win Htet Oo had qualified for the 50m freestyle swimming competition and is considered one of Myanmar's top swimmers. However, the 26-year-old abandoned his dreams of&nbsp;representing his country at the Olympics and said he was no longer interested in going to Tokyo in protest against Myanmar's junta.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-olympics-athletes-must-wear-masks-at-games-apart-from-podium-moment-400491" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment</a>

While taking to Facebook, Oo wrote, "To accept the MOC (Myanmar Olympic Committee) as it is currently led is to recognise the legitimacy of a murderous regime. I shall not march in the (opening ceremony's) Parade of Nations under a flag steeped in my people's blood."

The swimmer had also said that after the February coup he knew he couldn't go to the Olympic Games. So, it was an easy decision to make, even after training for two decades for the chance to go to the Olympics. "I just couldn't bring myself to attend, if [the MOC] was being controlled by the military," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/Tokyo%20Olympics:%20Silver%20medallist%20Mirabai%20Chanu's%20special%20Olympic%20earrings%20stole%20the%20show">Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show</a>

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Myanmar in political turmoil ever since the 76-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, who was democratically elected as a civilian leader of Myanmar, was detained on February 1 in a coup d'état. The coup was carried out by Myanmar armed forces and Suu Kyi was slapped with a series of charges. Several other members of her political party, journalists and other prominent figures were also arrested. The coup ignited deadly protests across the country and hundreds of people have lost their lives. Besides protests and nationwide civil disobedience, the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to ravage as the situation remains dire in the county.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>&nbsp;

"I wanted to show Myanmar people that athletes can take part in the civil disobedience movement," he told AFP, speaking from Melbourne, Australia. "The image of me walking behind the flag in the Parade of Nations and smiling - pretending everything was all right - quite frankly disgusted me. It would be a propaganda exercise, some sort of way to tell the world that everything is fine in Myanmar," he added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
It is worth noting that Oo wrote to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in March, citing the ongoing violence in Myanmar and asking to compete as an Independent Olympic Athlete. However, the IOC said Win Htet Oo did not appear to have a place for the Games, as awarded via the world swimming body FINA's qualifying system.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Oo wished the athletes who took part in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics as Myanmar made its seventeenth appearance at the Olympics.&nbsp;

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"I shall not march in the (opening ceremony's) Parade of Nations under a flag steeped in my people's blood," said Myanmar's Win Htet Oo, who was supposed to make his Olympic debut as the country's lone swimmer.

"I shall not march in the (opening ceremony's) Parade of Nations under a flag steeped in my people's blood," said Myanmar's Win Htet Oo, who was supposed to make his Olympic debut as the country's lone swimmer. While nations across the globe are cheering for their players as they win medals at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, a few would remember the sacrifice Oo made after the Myanmar military seized power in a coup in February, earlier this year. Amid the Tokyo Olympics frenzy and fanfare, it is heartbreaking to see a well-deserved athlete being absent due to political reasons. Win Htet Oo had qualified for the 50m freestyle swimming competition and is considered one of Myanmar's top swimmers. However, the 26-year-old abandoned his dreams of representing his country at the Olympics and said he was no longer interested in going to Tokyo in protest against Myanmar's junta. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment While taking to Facebook, Oo wrote, "To accept the MOC (Myanmar Olympic Committee) as it is currently led is to recognise the legitimacy of a murderous regime. I shall not march in the (opening ceremony's) Parade of Nations under a flag steeped in my people's blood." The swimmer had also said that after the February coup he knew he couldn't go to the Olympic Games. So, it was an easy decision to make, even after training for two decades for the chance to go to the Olympics. "I just couldn't bring myself to attend, if [the MOC] was being controlled by the military," he added. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show × Myanmar in political turmoil ever since the 76-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, who was democratically elected as a civilian leader of Myanmar, was detained on February 1 in a coup d'état. The coup was carried out by Myanmar armed forces and Suu Kyi was slapped with a series of charges. Several other members of her political party, journalists and other prominent figures were also arrested. The coup ignited deadly protests across the country and hundreds of people have lost their lives. Besides protests and nationwide civil disobedience, the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to ravage as the situation remains dire in the county. IN PICS: Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! "I wanted to show Myanmar people that athletes can take part in the civil disobedience movement," he told AFP, speaking from Melbourne, Australia. "The image of me walking behind the flag in the Parade of Nations and smiling - pretending everything was all right - quite frankly disgusted me. It would be a propaganda exercise, some sort of way to tell the world that everything is fine in Myanmar," he added. It is worth noting that Oo wrote to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in March, citing the ongoing violence in Myanmar and asking to compete as an Independent Olympic Athlete. However, the IOC said Win Htet Oo did not appear to have a place for the Games, as awarded via the world swimming body FINA's qualifying system. Meanwhile, Oo wished the athletes who took part in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics as Myanmar made its seventeenth appearance at the Olympics. × Click here for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

Tokyo 2020: When Myanmar swimmer ditched Olympic dreams in protest against junta ruling

India boxer Manish Kaushik (63kg) on Sunday bowed out of the men's lightweight (57-63 kg) category event after losing to Great Britain's Luke McCormack in the round of 32 here at the Kokugikan arena.

McCormack defeated Kaushik 4-1 in the round of 32 matches.

By the end of Round 1, McCormack managed to take a lead as three out of five judges adjudged that he had won the round while two said that it was Kaushik who won the first round.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-a-stunning-comeback-pushes-manika-batra-to-3rd-round-in-table-tennis-singles-400505" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: A stunning comeback pushes Manika Batra to 3rd round in Table Tennis singles</a>

However, McCormack won the round 3-2. Kaushik won Round 2, 3-2, and hence by the end of it, the scoreline was level and the match went down to the wire, and it was the final round that had to decide the fate of the boxers.&nbsp;

However, McCormack managed to hold his own in the final round, and in the end, he ended up winning the match.

Earlier on Sunday, Mary Kom (51 kg) stormed into the Round of 16 of women's flyweight (48-51 kg) category after defeating Miguelina Garcia of the Dominican Republic in the round of 32.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-mary-kom-through-to-round-of-16-after-beating-hernandez-garcia-miguelina-400514" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Mary Kom through to Round of 16 after beating Hernandez Garcia Miguelina</a>

Mary Kom defeated Miguelina 4-1. On Saturday, 29-year-old Vikas Krishnan lost his round of 32 matches in the men's welterweight boxing event here in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics and as a result, he has bowed out of the mega event.

Japan's Mensah Okazawa defeated Krishnan 5-0 in the round of 32 matches at the Kokugikan arena.

India boxer Manish Kaushik (63kg) on Sunday bowed out of the men's lightweight (57-63 kg) category event after losing to Great Britain's Luke McCormack in the round of 32 here at the Kokugikan arena.

India boxer Manish Kaushik (63kg) on Sunday bowed out of the men's lightweight (57-63 kg) category event after losing to Great Britain's Luke McCormack in the round of 32 here at the Kokugikan arena. McCormack defeated Kaushik 4-1 in the round of 32 matches. By the end of Round 1, McCormack managed to take a lead as three out of five judges adjudged that he had won the round while two said that it was Kaushik who won the first round. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: A stunning comeback pushes Manika Batra to 3rd round in Table Tennis singles However, McCormack won the round 3-2. Kaushik won Round 2, 3-2, and hence by the end of it, the scoreline was level and the match went down to the wire, and it was the final round that had to decide the fate of the boxers. However, McCormack managed to hold his own in the final round, and in the end, he ended up winning the match. Earlier on Sunday, Mary Kom (51 kg) stormed into the Round of 16 of women's flyweight (48-51 kg) category after defeating Miguelina Garcia of the Dominican Republic in the round of 32. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Mary Kom through to Round of 16 after beating Hernandez Garcia Miguelina Mary Kom defeated Miguelina 4-1. On Saturday, 29-year-old Vikas Krishnan lost his round of 32 matches in the men's welterweight boxing event here in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics and as a result, he has bowed out of the mega event. Japan's Mensah Okazawa defeated Krishnan 5-0 in the round of 32 matches at the Kokugikan arena.

Tokyo Olympics: Indian Boxer Manish Kaushik crashes out after losing to Luke McCormack

India men`s hockey team was not able to carry their winning momentum as the Manpreet Singh-led side stumbled to a defeat at the hands of Australia in their second Group A game in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-mary-kom-through-to-round-of-16-after-beating-hernandez-garcia-miguelina-400514" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020: India's Mary Kom through to Round of 16</a>

Australia defeated India 7-1 here at the Oi Hockey Stadium North Pitch. India will next take on Spain on Tuesday.

In the first quarter, Australia managed to take the lead as Daniel Beale scored. The Manpreet Singh-led India was not able to get the equaliser in the first quarter and hence the scoreline remained 1-0.

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>

Australia dent another blow as Jeremy Hayward went through India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and as a result, Australia took a 2-0 lead, creating more pressure on India. In the same quarter, Flynn Ogilvie scored as well, giving Australia a 3-0 lead.

India had no answers to whatever was being thrown at them, and they quickly conceded another, to go 0-4 down in the second quarter.

In the third quarter, India finally managed to get on the scoring sheet as 21-year-old Dilpreet Singh rose up to the challenge. However, Australia once again restored their four-goal lead as Blake Govers scored through a penalty stroke, giving Australia a 5-1 lead.

Minutes later, Glovers scored again and Australia gained a 6-1 lead, and India ran the risk of conceding goals in double digits. In the fourth and final quarter, Australia scored one more goal and in the end, they registered a thundering win.&nbsp;

India men`s hockey team was not able to carry their winning momentum as the Manpreet Singh-led side stumbled to a defeat at the hands of Australia in their second Group A game in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics.

India men`s hockey team was not able to carry their winning momentum as the Manpreet Singh-led side stumbled to a defeat at the hands of Australia in their second Group A game in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: India's Mary Kom through to Round of 16 Australia defeated India 7-1 here at the Oi Hockey Stadium North Pitch. India will next take on Spain on Tuesday. In the first quarter, Australia managed to take the lead as Daniel Beale scored. The Manpreet Singh-led India was not able to get the equaliser in the first quarter and hence the scoreline remained 1-0. IN PICS| Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! Australia dent another blow as Jeremy Hayward went through India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and as a result, Australia took a 2-0 lead, creating more pressure on India. In the same quarter, Flynn Ogilvie scored as well, giving Australia a 3-0 lead. India had no answers to whatever was being thrown at them, and they quickly conceded another, to go 0-4 down in the second quarter. In the third quarter, India finally managed to get on the scoring sheet as 21-year-old Dilpreet Singh rose up to the challenge. However, Australia once again restored their four-goal lead as Blake Govers scored through a penalty stroke, giving Australia a 5-1 lead. Minutes later, Glovers scored again and Australia gained a 6-1 lead, and India ran the risk of conceding goals in double digits. In the fourth and final quarter, Australia scored one more goal and in the end, they registered a thundering win.

Tokyo Olympics, Men's Hockey: Australia thrash India 7-1 in Pool A game

China claimed its first diving gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday, keeping its winning streak in the sport rolling in the women's events.

Aiming for a clean sweep of all eight diving golds on offer in women's and men's events, the Asian powerhouse claimed the women's 3 metres synchronised springboard tile with Shi Tingmao and Wang Han leading the five-round final from the very start, finishing on 326.40 points.

Cheers from team mates and coaches rang around the mostly empty venue when the duo plunged into the pool with almost no splash on their last dive, showing once again their dominance of the event.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/Tokyo%20Olympics:%20Silver%20medallist%20Mirabai%20Chanu's%20special%20Olympic%20earrings%20stole%20the%20show">Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show</a>

China has now won five successive Olympic titles in the women's synchronised 3 metre springboard, which made its Olympic debut in 2000.

For Shi, the Tokyo win marked a second successive Olympic gold medal in the event, while Han grabbed her first.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-olympics-athletes-must-wear-masks-at-games-apart-from-podium-moment-400491" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment</a>

Canadian pair Jennifer Abel and Melissa Citrini-Beaulieu took silver with 300.78 points, followed by Lena Hentschel and Tina Punzel of Germany with 284.97 points.

China claimed its first diving gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday, keeping its winning streak in the sport rolling in the women's events. Aiming for a clean sweep of all eight diving golds on offer in women's and men's events, the Asian powerhouse claimed the women's 3 metres synchronised springboard tile with Shi Tingmao and Wang Han leading the five-round final from the very start, finishing on 326.

China claimed its first diving gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday, keeping its winning streak in the sport rolling in the women's events. Aiming for a clean sweep of all eight diving golds on offer in women's and men's events, the Asian powerhouse claimed the women's 3 metres synchronised springboard tile with Shi Tingmao and Wang Han leading the five-round final from the very start, finishing on 326.40 points. Cheers from team mates and coaches rang around the mostly empty venue when the duo plunged into the pool with almost no splash on their last dive, showing once again their dominance of the event. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show China has now won five successive Olympic titles in the women's synchronised 3 metre springboard, which made its Olympic debut in 2000. For Shi, the Tokyo win marked a second successive Olympic gold medal in the event, while Han grabbed her first. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment Canadian pair Jennifer Abel and Melissa Citrini-Beaulieu took silver with 300.78 points, followed by Lena Hentschel and Tina Punzel of Germany with 284.97 points.

Olympics 2020: China women keep diving gold streak alive with Tokyo win

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

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

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

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

Athletes follow a disciplined training and fitness regime to maintain their physique and athleticism; they sacrifice their favourite food items to maintain their diet habits and compete at international levels. However, some of the prominent sportspersons in India sometimes share their 'cheat meals', for instance, remember when cricketer Virat Kohli talked about his love for 'Chole Bhature'. Interestingly, the latest star to join the list is none other than Mirabai Chanu, who won a silver medal at Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>&nbsp;

India's star weightlifter was heard in one of the media interviews that she wishes to eat pizza and that too 'a lot of it'. Now, Domino's India has offered her "PizzasForLife". In a tweet, the food outlet wrote, "She said it, we heard it We never want @mirabai_chanu to wait to eat again so we’re treating her to FREE Domino’s pizza for life!"

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/Tokyo%20Olympics:%20Silver%20medallist%20Mirabai%20Chanu's%20special%20Olympic%20earrings%20stole%20the%20show">Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show</a>

The American food outlet had also congratulated the weightlifter moments after she won the medal and opened India's tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, it wrote, "Congratulations on bringing the medal home! You brought the dreams of a billion+ Indians to life and we couldn’t be happier to treat you to FREE pizza for life &nbsp;Congratulations again!!"

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-olympics-athletes-must-wear-masks-at-games-apart-from-podium-moment-400491" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment</a>

From a heartbreak at Rio Olympics to winning glory at Tokyo, Mirabai Chanu talked about her journey while speaking exclusively to WION. The silver medalist and her coach Vijay Sharma opened up on a length of topics. She also said that now, she wants to go home as she has not been able to due to the preparation for the Olympics but firmly mentioned that she will continue to train as there is a lot yet to achieve.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch the interview here:

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The 26-year-old Mirabai Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110).&nbsp;

Chanu has given a reason to smile to all the Indians amid the Coronavirus (COID-19) crisis. From India Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, the entire nation wished Chanu for bringing home the glory. The celebrations in her home town were rather special. Family and neighbours of Mirabai Chanu reacted while watching her win the Silver medal for India. "We are very happy today. This is a result of her hard work. India and Manipur are proud of her," her relative in Imphal told ANI.&nbsp;

Watch how her family celebrated:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Manipur: Family and neighbours of weightlifter Mirabai Chanu burst into celebrations as they watch her win the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Silver?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Silver</a> medal for India in Women's 49kg category. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OlympicGames?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OlympicGames</a> <a href="https://t.co/F2CjdwpPDc">pic.twitter.com/F2CjdwpPDc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1418833399301672963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">here</a>&nbsp;for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

Athletes follow a disciplined training and fitness regime to maintain their physique and athleticism; they sacrifice their favourite food items to maintain their diet habits and compete at international levels.

Athletes follow a disciplined training and fitness regime to maintain their physique and athleticism; they sacrifice their favourite food items to maintain their diet habits and compete at international levels. However, some of the prominent sportspersons in India sometimes share their 'cheat meals', for instance, remember when cricketer Virat Kohli talked about his love for 'Chole Bhature'. Interestingly, the latest star to join the list is none other than Mirabai Chanu, who won a silver medal at Tokyo Olympics 2020. IN PICS: Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! India's star weightlifter was heard in one of the media interviews that she wishes to eat pizza and that too 'a lot of it'. Now, Domino's India has offered her "PizzasForLife". In a tweet, the food outlet wrote, "She said it, we heard it We never want @mirabai_chanu to wait to eat again so we’re treating her to FREE Domino’s pizza for life!" ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show The American food outlet had also congratulated the weightlifter moments after she won the medal and opened India's tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, it wrote, "Congratulations on bringing the medal home! You brought the dreams of a billion+ Indians to life and we couldn’t be happier to treat you to FREE pizza for life Congratulations again!!" ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment From a heartbreak at Rio Olympics to winning glory at Tokyo, Mirabai Chanu talked about her journey while speaking exclusively to WION. The silver medalist and her coach Vijay Sharma opened up on a length of topics. She also said that now, she wants to go home as she has not been able to due to the preparation for the Olympics but firmly mentioned that she will continue to train as there is a lot yet to achieve. Watch the interview here: × The 26-year-old Mirabai Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110). Chanu has given a reason to smile to all the Indians amid the Coronavirus (COID-19) crisis. From India Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, the entire nation wished Chanu for bringing home the glory. The celebrations in her home town were rather special. Family and neighbours of Mirabai Chanu reacted while watching her win the Silver medal for India. "We are very happy today. This is a result of her hard work. India and Manipur are proud of her," her relative in Imphal told ANI. Watch how her family celebrated: #WATCH | Manipur: Family and neighbours of weightlifter Mirabai Chanu burst into celebrations as they watch her win the #Silver medal for India in Women's 49kg category. #OlympicGames pic.twitter.com/F2CjdwpPDc — ANI (@ANI) July 24, 2021 × Click here for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

'Free pizza for life': Mirabai Chanu gets delicious offer after winning silver medal at Tokyo Olympics

Indian table tennis star Manika Batra won her second-round clash against Margaryta Pesotska of Ukraine at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday.&nbsp;

Returning from a two-game deficiency, Manika crushed Pesotska 4-11, 4-11, 11-7, 12-10, 8-11, 11-5, 11-7 in 57 minutes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show">Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show</a>

India's Manika Batra made a comeback to dominate the third match after losing the initial two against Margaryta Pesotska of Ukraine in the second round of the women's singles table tennis event.

In the third game, Manika appeared to be defending more, and that appeared to have filled in as she changed the pace of the game. She hoped to get into an ever-increasing number of rallies as the game advanced. The Indian paddler won the third to remain alive in the challenge.&nbsp;

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Now that's a comeback!! 🤩 
 
Indian paddler <a href="https://twitter.com/manikabatra_TT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manikabatra_TT</a> stuns higher ranked Margaryta Pesotska 4-3 (4-11, 4-11, 11-7, 12-10, 8-11, 11-5, 11-7) to advance further in women's singles!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrongerTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrongerTogether</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnitedByEmotion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnitedByEmotion</a>
— #Tokyo2020 for India (@Tokyo2020hi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020hi/status/1419208127107436552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The two players contended well in the fourth game as it went last minute. Manika looked more positive in that game. It was a teeter-totter fight. The Indian paddler thought of a sublime backhand winner to get the game point. That was the point that appeared to have changed her mind inside and out.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-pv-sindhu-wins-opening-match-against-israels-ksenia-polikarpova-400451" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu wins opening match against Israel's Ksenia Polikarpova</a>

Manika began the 6th set gradually; however, at that point, a break that she took appeared to have changed the game's energy. She returned raging with five sequential points to go ahead of the pack. She took the decider and the energy is her ally.&nbsp;

Manika Batra won and moves into the third round. It was a game that tested her. She peered somewhat all over the place at first yet when the game finished, she was the better player by a distance.&nbsp;

Seemingly a bleak start for the Indian ended up being a great completion. With this success, India's desire for a medal is alive in the Women's Singles event!

Indian table tennis star Manika Batra won her second-round clash against Margaryta Pesotska of Ukraine at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday. Returning from a two-game deficiency, Manika crushed Pesotska 4-11, 4-11, 11-7, 12-10, 8-11, 11-5, 11-7 in 57 minutes.

Indian table tennis star Manika Batra won her second-round clash against Margaryta Pesotska of Ukraine at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday. Returning from a two-game deficiency, Manika crushed Pesotska 4-11, 4-11, 11-7, 12-10, 8-11, 11-5, 11-7 in 57 minutes. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show India's Manika Batra made a comeback to dominate the third match after losing the initial two against Margaryta Pesotska of Ukraine in the second round of the women's singles table tennis event. In the third game, Manika appeared to be defending more, and that appeared to have filled in as she changed the pace of the game. She hoped to get into an ever-increasing number of rallies as the game advanced. The Indian paddler won the third to remain alive in the challenge. Now that's a comeback!! 🤩 Indian paddler @manikabatra_TT stuns higher ranked Margaryta Pesotska 4-3 (4-11, 4-11, 11-7, 12-10, 8-11, 11-5, 11-7) to advance further in women's singles!#Olympics | #StrongerTogether | #UnitedByEmotion — #Tokyo2020 for India (@Tokyo2020hi) July 25, 2021 × The two players contended well in the fourth game as it went last minute. Manika looked more positive in that game. It was a teeter-totter fight. The Indian paddler thought of a sublime backhand winner to get the game point. That was the point that appeared to have changed her mind inside and out. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu wins opening match against Israel's Ksenia Polikarpova Manika began the 6th set gradually; however, at that point, a break that she took appeared to have changed the game's energy. She returned raging with five sequential points to go ahead of the pack. She took the decider and the energy is her ally. Manika Batra won and moves into the third round. It was a game that tested her. She peered somewhat all over the place at first yet when the game finished, she was the better player by a distance. Seemingly a bleak start for the Indian ended up being a great completion. With this success, India's desire for a medal is alive in the Women's Singles event!

Tokyo Olympics: A stunning comeback pushes Manika Batra to 3rd round in Table Tennis singles

World number one Jon Rahm withdrew from the Olympics on Sunday after testing positive for Covid-19 for the second time in two months, the Spanish Olympic Committee confirmed.

Rahm, who stormed to victory at the US Open in June, returned a positive sample after undergoing mandatory testing following his recent participation in the British Open.

It was the latest twist to what has been a tumultuous season for the 26-year-old Spaniard.

In June, he was forced to withdraw from the PGA Tour's Memorial Tournament while defending a six-shot lead heading into the final round after returning a positive test.

Rahm later revealed he had been vaccinated shortly before contracting the disease.

He then bounced back from that setback to clinch a stunning victory at the US Open at Torrey Pines a fortnight later, taking the championship with back-to-back birdies on the final two holes.

World number one Jon Rahm withdrew from the Olympics on Sunday after testing positive for Covid-19 for the second time in two months, the Spanish Olympic Committee confirmed.

World number one Jon Rahm withdrew from the Olympics on Sunday after testing positive for Covid-19 for the second time in two months, the Spanish Olympic Committee confirmed. Rahm, who stormed to victory at the US Open in June, returned a positive sample after undergoing mandatory testing following his recent participation in the British Open. It was the latest twist to what has been a tumultuous season for the 26-year-old Spaniard. In June, he was forced to withdraw from the PGA Tour's Memorial Tournament while defending a six-shot lead heading into the final round after returning a positive test. Rahm later revealed he had been vaccinated shortly before contracting the disease. He then bounced back from that setback to clinch a stunning victory at the US Open at Torrey Pines a fortnight later, taking the championship with back-to-back birdies on the final two holes.

Tokyo 2020: Jon Rahm out of Olympics after testing positive for COVID-19

India`s world No.1 women`s archer Deepika Kumari and experienced Pravin Jadhav provided some cheers to the contingent, securing a place in the quarterfinals in the mixed team event at the Yumenoshima Ranking Field here on Saturday. 
 
The pair rallied to overcome the Chinese Taipei pair of Lin Chia-En and Tang Chin-Chun 5-3 in the opening elimination round and will take on the winners of the match between the top-seeded South Koreans and Bangladesh. 
 
The opening set went in favour of the archers from Chinese Taipei 36-35 as Jadhav had two poor shots of eight. However, the Indians came back strongly in the second set with 38 in their four shots. 
 
The Chinese Taipei archers, though, were equally good and forced a draw to maintain their lead at 3-1. 
 
Deepika and Jadhav came back strongly to win the next set 40-35 with perfect scores of 10 from both Indian archers to match the scores at 3-3. 
 
In the decider, with India needing 20 points in the final two attempts, Deepika and Pravin held their nerves to shoot perfectly and win the set 37-36 and with it the match. 
 
The Indian team had qualified as the ninth-best team after the ranking round on Friday while Chinese Taipei were ranked eighth. 
 
On Friday, Jadhav`s better performance compared to Atanu Das in the ranking round had led him to be paired with Deepika for the mixed team event.

India`s world No.1 women`s archer Deepika Kumari and experienced Pravin Jadhav provided some cheers to the contingent, securing a place in the quarterfinals in the mixed team event at the Yumenoshima Ranking Field here on Saturday.

India`s world No.1 women`s archer Deepika Kumari and experienced Pravin Jadhav provided some cheers to the contingent, securing a place in the quarterfinals in the mixed team event at the Yumenoshima Ranking Field here on Saturday. The pair rallied to overcome the Chinese Taipei pair of Lin Chia-En and Tang Chin-Chun 5-3 in the opening elimination round and will take on the winners of the match between the top-seeded South Koreans and Bangladesh. The opening set went in favour of the archers from Chinese Taipei 36-35 as Jadhav had two poor shots of eight. However, the Indians came back strongly in the second set with 38 in their four shots. The Chinese Taipei archers, though, were equally good and forced a draw to maintain their lead at 3-1. Deepika and Jadhav came back strongly to win the next set 40-35 with perfect scores of 10 from both Indian archers to match the scores at 3-3. In the decider, with India needing 20 points in the final two attempts, Deepika and Pravin held their nerves to shoot perfectly and win the set 37-36 and with it the match. The Indian team had qualified as the ninth-best team after the ranking round on Friday while Chinese Taipei were ranked eighth. On Friday, Jadhav`s better performance compared to Atanu Das in the ranking round had led him to be paired with Deepika for the mixed team event.

Tokyo Olympics Archery Mixed Team event: Deepika Kumari, Pravin Jadhav in mixed team quarter-finals

Syria`s Hend Zaza, at 12 the youngest athlete competing at the Tokyo Olympics, exited the table tennis tournament in the opening round on Saturday, snapping a selfie with her Austrian opponent to remember the occasion. 
 
Zaza was battling an opponent more than three times her age in 39-year-old Liu Jia in the women`s singles preliminary round but showed no sign of nerves, maintaining her composure despite a 4-0 defeat.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinas-yang-qian-wins-first-gold-medal-of-tokyo-olympics-2020-in-womens-10m-air-rifle-event-400260" hreflang="en">China's Yang Qian wins first gold medal of Tokyo Olympics 2020 in women's 10m air rifle event</a> 
 
"It was very tough to mentally be prepared for (the Olympics) but I think I somehow managed to overcome this, and this is the part that I think I did the best during the match," Zaza told reporters after the match. 
 
"The main lesson was the loss of this match, especially in the first match. So next time, I will be working hard to pass the first, second, third round, because I want to play more in this competition," she added.

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/when-indias-top-guns-roared-at-the-olympics-400220" hreflang="en">When India's Top Guns roared at the Olympics</a> 
 
Her coach Adham Jamaan told reporters the paddler would need to continue practising, and she "would be okay". 
 
The youngest Olympian since 11-year-old Spanish rower Carlos Front in 1992. Zaza was born in Hama, Syria, to an athletic family and started playing table tennis at the age of five. 
 
She has been able to participate in only two or three external matches a year due to the Syrian civil war, Jamaan has said. 
 
Frequent power outages also restricted her to occasionally practise only during daytime hours. 
 
But Zaza beat the odds after winning the West Asia Olympic qualification tournament in Jordan last year, becoming the first Syrian paddler to qualify for the Olympics. 
 
"For the last five years, I`ve been through many different experiences, especially with the war happening around the country and the postponement of the funding for the Olympics," Zaza said. 
 
"It was very tough, but I had to fight for it. And this is my message to everyone who is in the same situation -- fight for your dream. Try hard regardless of the difficulties that you’re having and you will reach your hope."

Syria`s Hend Zaza, at 12 the youngest athlete competing at the Tokyo Olympics, exited the table tennis tournament in the opening round on Saturday, snapping a selfie with her Austrian opponent to remember the occasion.

Syria`s Hend Zaza, at 12 the youngest athlete competing at the Tokyo Olympics, exited the table tennis tournament in the opening round on Saturday, snapping a selfie with her Austrian opponent to remember the occasion. Zaza was battling an opponent more than three times her age in 39-year-old Liu Jia in the women`s singles preliminary round but showed no sign of nerves, maintaining her composure despite a 4-0 defeat. ALSO READ: China's Yang Qian wins first gold medal of Tokyo Olympics 2020 in women's 10m air rifle event "It was very tough to mentally be prepared for (the Olympics) but I think I somehow managed to overcome this, and this is the part that I think I did the best during the match," Zaza told reporters after the match. "The main lesson was the loss of this match, especially in the first match. So next time, I will be working hard to pass the first, second, third round, because I want to play more in this competition," she added. IN PICS| When India's Top Guns roared at the Olympics Her coach Adham Jamaan told reporters the paddler would need to continue practising, and she "would be okay". The youngest Olympian since 11-year-old Spanish rower Carlos Front in 1992. Zaza was born in Hama, Syria, to an athletic family and started playing table tennis at the age of five. She has been able to participate in only two or three external matches a year due to the Syrian civil war, Jamaan has said. Frequent power outages also restricted her to occasionally practise only during daytime hours. But Zaza beat the odds after winning the West Asia Olympic qualification tournament in Jordan last year, becoming the first Syrian paddler to qualify for the Olympics. "For the last five years, I`ve been through many different experiences, especially with the war happening around the country and the postponement of the funding for the Olympics," Zaza said. "It was very tough, but I had to fight for it. And this is my message to everyone who is in the same situation -- fight for your dream. Try hard regardless of the difficulties that you’re having and you will reach your hope."

Olympics Table Tennis: Tokyo Games' youngest competitor from Syria exits in first round

Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals off penalty corners as India survived some anxious moments to scrape through to a 3-2 win against New Zealand to start their Olympic Games men`s hockey campaign on a winning note here on Saturday. 
 
Rupinderpal Singh had equalised for India in the 10th minute after New Zealand had gone ahead off a penalty corner conversion by Kane Russel. 
 
Harmanpreet scored off successive penalty corners in the 26th and 33rd minute to give India a 3-1 lead. 
 
Stephen Jenness reduced the margin for New Zealand. The Black Sticks created a lot of pressure in the fourth quarter but could not find the equaliser.

Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals off penalty corners as India survived some anxious moments to scrape through to a 3-2 win against New Zealand to start their Olympic Games men`s hockey campaign on a winning note here on Saturday.

Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals off penalty corners as India survived some anxious moments to scrape through to a 3-2 win against New Zealand to start their Olympic Games men`s hockey campaign on a winning note here on Saturday. Rupinderpal Singh had equalised for India in the 10th minute after New Zealand had gone ahead off a penalty corner conversion by Kane Russel. Harmanpreet scored off successive penalty corners in the 26th and 33rd minute to give India a 3-1 lead. Stephen Jenness reduced the margin for New Zealand. The Black Sticks created a lot of pressure in the fourth quarter but could not find the equaliser.

Tokyo Olympics men's hockey: India beat New Zealand 3-2 in first match

The first gold medal of the Tokyo Olympics has been claimed by China's Yang Qian in the women's 10-meter rifle competition on Saturday (July 24). Yang won the elusive medal with an Olympic record score of 251.8 as she finished ahead of Russia's Anastasiia Galashina. Switzerland's Nina Christen picked&nbsp;up the bronze medal.&nbsp;

Switzerland's Christen was knocked out on 230.6 points winning the&nbsp;first bronze medal of Tokyo 2020. After that, it's a straight shoot-off between Anastasiia and Yang for gold.&nbsp;

In their first shots of the final set, it was 10.7 for Yang and 10.8 for Galashina. The Russian shooter had a 0.2 lead overall going into the last shots but she managed only an 8.9 – her lowest score of this final. Yang shot a 9.8 and won the gold medal.&nbsp;

Previously, Norwegian Jeanette Hegg Duestad had set an Olympic qualifying record of 632.9 to reach the final but finished just outside the medals.&nbsp;

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24 July - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shooting?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shooting</a> / Women's 10m Air Rifle 
 
🥇 YANG Qian🇨🇳 
🥈 Anastasiia Galashina 
🥉 Nina Christen🇨🇭 
 
Congratulations to the first medalists of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnitedByEmotion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnitedByEmotion</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrongerTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrongerTogether</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ISSF_Shooting?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ISSF_Shooting</a>
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On the other hand, Indian shooters were disappointed as Elavenil Valarivan finished at 16th (626.5) and Apurvi Chandela finished 36th (621.9), hence, failed to qualify in the 10m air rifle women's qualification round.&nbsp;

The first gold medal of the Tokyo Olympics has been claimed by China's Yang Qian in the women's 10-meter rifle competition on Saturday (July 24). Yang won the elusive medal with an Olympic record score of 251.

The first gold medal of the Tokyo Olympics has been claimed by China's Yang Qian in the women's 10-meter rifle competition on Saturday (July 24). Yang won the elusive medal with an Olympic record score of 251.8 as she finished ahead of Russia's Anastasiia Galashina. Switzerland's Nina Christen picked up the bronze medal. Switzerland's Christen was knocked out on 230.6 points winning the first bronze medal of Tokyo 2020. After that, it's a straight shoot-off between Anastasiia and Yang for gold. In their first shots of the final set, it was 10.7 for Yang and 10.8 for Galashina. The Russian shooter had a 0.2 lead overall going into the last shots but she managed only an 8.9 – her lowest score of this final. Yang shot a 9.8 and won the gold medal. Previously, Norwegian Jeanette Hegg Duestad had set an Olympic qualifying record of 632.9 to reach the final but finished just outside the medals. 24 July - #Shooting / Women's 10m Air Rifle 🥇 YANG Qian🇨🇳 🥈 Anastasiia Galashina 🥉 Nina Christen🇨🇭 Congratulations to the first medalists of #Tokyo2020 #UnitedByEmotion | #StrongerTogether | @ISSF_Shooting — #Tokyo2020 (@Tokyo2020) July 24, 2021 × On the other hand, Indian shooters were disappointed as Elavenil Valarivan finished at 16th (626.5) and Apurvi Chandela finished 36th (621.9), hence, failed to qualify in the 10m air rifle women's qualification round.

China's Yang Qian wins first gold medal of Tokyo Olympics 2020 in women's 10m air rifle event

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category and opened India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. As the entire nation is in celebration mode, Chanu opened up about her&nbsp;journey while speaking exclusively to WION's&nbsp;Digvijay Singh Deo.

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>&nbsp;

The 26-year-old Mirabai Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." Chanu finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110).&nbsp;

Watch the interview here:&nbsp;

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Mirabai Chanu's exclusive interview with WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a>: "Happy &amp; proud to have won the medal at Olympics"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoOlympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoOlympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MirabaiChanu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MirabaiChanu</a> <a href="https://t.co/yhG6k7nGlM">pic.twitter.com/yhG6k7nGlM</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1418932613084028930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Indian Olympics silver medalist Mirabai Chanu to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a>: "I only focused on giving my best performance"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoOlympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoOlympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MirabaiChanu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MirabaiChanu</a> <a href="https://t.co/IYcRnMjjtF">pic.twitter.com/IYcRnMjjtF</a>
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Chanu lifted 84kg and 87kg successfully. She began with a 84kg lift in her first attempt in the snatch segment and went on to improve with an 87kg lift. However, she failed to lift 89kg as she was placed in the second spot.&nbsp;

It was a historic feat for Chanu as her win came two decades after Indian trailblazer Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. On being asked about her performance, Chanu said, "When I go for the lift, I think about focussing on giving my best performance and if everything goes as planned, the medal will automatically come."

The Manipur-born weightlifter spoke about the setback she had received in the Rio Olympics and said she was "very sad" but her coach and federation guided her. In 2016, Chanu suffered heartbreak at the Rio Games as she failed to get an overall total in the women's 48kg category after being unable to register a successful lift in any of her three attempts in clean and jerk. She said family and friends consoled her and also tried to convince her to look forward and plan for future tournaments.&nbsp;

Mirabai has won multiple accolades as she has been conferred the Arjuna Award, honoured with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2018, and the Padma Shri. Chanu's coach Vijay Sharma said that the honour was a "boost-up". He also mentioned the discipline that's needed to win medals at such events. He said, "just raw talent is not enough. Alongside the talent, the athletes always need the discipline and a hunger to reach the Olympics podium otherwise, it becomes really difficult."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tokyo-olympics-2020-top-7-teenagers-from-india-set-to-shine-in-the-greatest-extravaganza-400295" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Top 7 teenagers from India set to shine in the greatest extravaganza</a>

Mirabai Chanu also said that she was extremely happy to receive a call from India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi had also tweeted moments after she had won the medal. He wrote, "Congratulations to her for winning the Silver medal in weightlifting. Her success motivates every Indian." He also added that he couldn't have asked for a happier start to the Olympics 2020 and mentioned that India is elated by Chanu's "stupendous performance".&nbsp;

Chanu also said that now, she wants to go home as she has not been able to due to the preparation for the Olympics but firmly mentioned that she will continue to train as there is a lot yet to achieve.&nbsp;

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category and opened India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. As the entire nation is in celebration mode, Chanu opened up about her journey while speaking exclusively to WION's Digvijay Singh Deo.

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category and opened India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. As the entire nation is in celebration mode, Chanu opened up about her journey while speaking exclusively to WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. IN PICS| Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! The 26-year-old Mirabai Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." Chanu finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110). Watch the interview here: Mirabai Chanu's exclusive interview with WION's @DiggySinghDeo: "Happy & proud to have won the medal at Olympics"#Olympics #TokyoOlympics #Olympics2020 #MirabaiChanu pic.twitter.com/yhG6k7nGlM — WION (@WIONews) July 24, 2021 × Indian Olympics silver medalist Mirabai Chanu to WION's @DiggySinghDeo: "I only focused on giving my best performance"#Olympics #TokyoOlympics #Olympics2020 #MirabaiChanu pic.twitter.com/IYcRnMjjtF — WION (@WIONews) July 24, 2021 × Chanu lifted 84kg and 87kg successfully. She began with a 84kg lift in her first attempt in the snatch segment and went on to improve with an 87kg lift. However, she failed to lift 89kg as she was placed in the second spot. It was a historic feat for Chanu as her win came two decades after Indian trailblazer Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. On being asked about her performance, Chanu said, "When I go for the lift, I think about focussing on giving my best performance and if everything goes as planned, the medal will automatically come." The Manipur-born weightlifter spoke about the setback she had received in the Rio Olympics and said she was "very sad" but her coach and federation guided her. In 2016, Chanu suffered heartbreak at the Rio Games as she failed to get an overall total in the women's 48kg category after being unable to register a successful lift in any of her three attempts in clean and jerk. She said family and friends consoled her and also tried to convince her to look forward and plan for future tournaments. Mirabai has won multiple accolades as she has been conferred the Arjuna Award, honoured with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2018, and the Padma Shri. Chanu's coach Vijay Sharma said that the honour was a "boost-up". He also mentioned the discipline that's needed to win medals at such events. He said, "just raw talent is not enough. Alongside the talent, the athletes always need the discipline and a hunger to reach the Olympics podium otherwise, it becomes really difficult." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Top 7 teenagers from India set to shine in the greatest extravaganza Mirabai Chanu also said that she was extremely happy to receive a call from India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi had also tweeted moments after she had won the medal. He wrote, "Congratulations to her for winning the Silver medal in weightlifting. Her success motivates every Indian." He also added that he couldn't have asked for a happier start to the Olympics 2020 and mentioned that India is elated by Chanu's "stupendous performance". Chanu also said that now, she wants to go home as she has not been able to due to the preparation for the Olympics but firmly mentioned that she will continue to train as there is a lot yet to achieve.

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Mirabai Chanu's exclusive interview right after silver medal win | Watch

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka on Friday lit the Olympic cauldron to mark the formal start of Tokyo 2020, in an opening ceremony shorn of glitz and overshadowed by a pandemic but celebrated as a moment of global hope.

Organizers also paid tribute to medical workers as athletes from across the world paraded into an almost empty stadium, their smiles hidden behind masks for the first time.

Normally a star-studded display teeming with celebrities, the ceremony was low-key, with fewer than 1,000 people in attendance, strict social distancing rules, and signs calling on spectators to "be quiet around the venue."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-day-1-live-updates-indian-team-enters-stadium-as-world-athletes-gather-399834" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020 Live: Indian team enters stadium as world athletes gather</a>

"With the world in a tough situation because of the coronavirus pandemic, I would like to pay my respect and express my gratitude to medical workers and all those who are working hard every day to overcome the difficulties," said the President of the organizing committee, Seiko Hashimoto.

The ceremony climaxed with a fusion of traditional kabuki theatre - with its elaborate makeup and costumes - and a jazz piano improvisation, on a stage topped with the cauldron for the Olympic flame.

After being passed from baseball legends to children, the torch was handed to Osaka, who walked to the base of the stage, which split open to reveal a set of stairs as the cauldron unfolded like a flower.

She then climbed the stairs and lit the cauldron as fireworks briefly illuminated the sky.

At the parade, most countries were represented by both male and female flagbearers in an Olympic first, but not everybody took pandemic measures. Teams from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and the Pakistan flagbearers paraded maskless in contrast to protocol and the majority of other athletes.

Members of the Canada delegation wore patches in the colour of the rainbow, the symbol of the LGBT community, on their jackets. U.S. first lady Jill Biden clapped the Americans as did France President Emmanuel Macron for the French team.

The Olympic oath, recited by the athletes at the end of the parade, has been updated for the Tokyo Games, with athletes swearing their commitment to inclusion, equality, and non-discrimination for the first time at the&nbsp;Olympics.

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka on Friday lit the Olympic cauldron to mark the formal start of Tokyo 2020, in an opening ceremony shorn of glitz and overshadowed by a pandemic but celebrated as a moment of global hope.

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka on Friday lit the Olympic cauldron to mark the formal start of Tokyo 2020, in an opening ceremony shorn of glitz and overshadowed by a pandemic but celebrated as a moment of global hope. Organizers also paid tribute to medical workers as athletes from across the world paraded into an almost empty stadium, their smiles hidden behind masks for the first time. Normally a star-studded display teeming with celebrities, the ceremony was low-key, with fewer than 1,000 people in attendance, strict social distancing rules, and signs calling on spectators to "be quiet around the venue." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020 Live: Indian team enters stadium as world athletes gather "With the world in a tough situation because of the coronavirus pandemic, I would like to pay my respect and express my gratitude to medical workers and all those who are working hard every day to overcome the difficulties," said the President of the organizing committee, Seiko Hashimoto. The ceremony climaxed with a fusion of traditional kabuki theatre - with its elaborate makeup and costumes - and a jazz piano improvisation, on a stage topped with the cauldron for the Olympic flame. After being passed from baseball legends to children, the torch was handed to Osaka, who walked to the base of the stage, which split open to reveal a set of stairs as the cauldron unfolded like a flower. She then climbed the stairs and lit the cauldron as fireworks briefly illuminated the sky. At the parade, most countries were represented by both male and female flagbearers in an Olympic first, but not everybody took pandemic measures. Teams from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and the Pakistan flagbearers paraded maskless in contrast to protocol and the majority of other athletes. Members of the Canada delegation wore patches in the colour of the rainbow, the symbol of the LGBT community, on their jackets. U.S. first lady Jill Biden clapped the Americans as did France President Emmanuel Macron for the French team. The Olympic oath, recited by the athletes at the end of the parade, has been updated for the Tokyo Games, with athletes swearing their commitment to inclusion, equality, and non-discrimination for the first time at the Olympics.

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Naomi Osaka lights flame as 'games of hope' open

Tokyo 2020's oldest competitor, 66-year-old Australian horse rider Mary Hanna, said on Saturday she also aimed to take part in the 2024&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;unless her body gave way.

Hanna represents her country in dressage, one of the three equestrian disciplines that are the only Olympic events that do not differentiate on the basis of gender and often feature athletes aged over 50 competing at the highest level.

"I don't know what else to do with myself. I've been doing this for so long now. Look, riding’s one of those amazing sports where you can do it no matter what your age is, or your gender," Hanna said after she competed in the qualifiers on Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-indian-olympic-association-announces-cash-rewards-for-coaches-of-medal-winners-400371" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Indian Olympic Association announces cash rewards for coaches of medal-winners</a>

Asked if she hoped to make it to Paris in 2024 for what would be her seventh Games, she said: "Yes, absolutely. It's only three years away. Unless my body really breaks down, I'm certainly aiming for Paris."

Hanna - who has four grandchildren and is 54 years older than Tokyo youngest competitor, 12 years old Syrian table tennis player Hend Zaza - has also not given up hopes of winning an Olympic medal.

"You always dream that your next horse, your next competition, that you're going to make it better. You just keep striving to do the absolute best you can. The&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;is a lot about participation, too, so just being here is great."

Australia were lying 12th of 14 teams after Saturday's first round of dressage qualifiers.

Tokyo 2020's oldest competitor, 66-year-old Australian horse rider Mary Hanna, said on Saturday she also aimed to take part in the 2024 Olympics unless her body gave way.

Tokyo 2020's oldest competitor, 66-year-old Australian horse rider Mary Hanna, said on Saturday she also aimed to take part in the 2024 Olympics unless her body gave way. Hanna represents her country in dressage, one of the three equestrian disciplines that are the only Olympic events that do not differentiate on the basis of gender and often feature athletes aged over 50 competing at the highest level. "I don't know what else to do with myself. I've been doing this for so long now. Look, riding’s one of those amazing sports where you can do it no matter what your age is, or your gender," Hanna said after she competed in the qualifiers on Saturday. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Indian Olympic Association announces cash rewards for coaches of medal-winners Asked if she hoped to make it to Paris in 2024 for what would be her seventh Games, she said: "Yes, absolutely. It's only three years away. Unless my body really breaks down, I'm certainly aiming for Paris." Hanna - who has four grandchildren and is 54 years older than Tokyo youngest competitor, 12 years old Syrian table tennis player Hend Zaza - has also not given up hopes of winning an Olympic medal. "You always dream that your next horse, your next competition, that you're going to make it better. You just keep striving to do the absolute best you can. The Olympics is a lot about participation, too, so just being here is great." Australia were lying 12th of 14 teams after Saturday's first round of dressage qualifiers.

Olympics 2020: Tokyo's Oldest Olympian says ready for Paris 2024 'unless body breaks'

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