A Belarusian athlete who refused to board a flight https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/exclusive-olympics-belarusian-athlete-says-she-was-taken-airport-go-home-after-2021-08-01 after she said she was taken to the airport by her team against her wishes was "safe and secure" in Tokyo, the International Olympic Committee said on Monday.

Krystsina Tsimanouskaya, 24, spent the night in an airport hotel after she went to Japanese police at Haneda airport seeking protection late on Sunday, IOC spokesperson Mark Adams told a media conference. A number of agencies were in contact with the sprinter, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, he added.

In a brewing diplomatic incident, it was unclear where Tsimanouskaya would end up with both Poland and the Czech Republic publicly offering her assistance.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-indian-womens-hockey-beat-australia-1-0-to-enter-semis-at-olympics-for-the-first-time-402319" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time</a>

"She has assured us she is safe and secure. We are talking again to her this morning to understand what the next steps will be," Adams said. "We need to listen to her, find out what she wants and support her in her decision."

The sprinter, who was due to race in the 200 metre heats at Olympic Stadium on Monday, had her Games cut short when she said she was taken to the airport to board a Turkish Airlines flight.

She told a Reuters reporter via Telegram that the Belarusian head coach had turned up at her room on Sunday at the athletes village and told her she had to leave.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-can-we-have-two-golds-high-jumpers-agree-to-share-gold-medal-402327">Tokyo Olympics - 'Can we have two golds': High jumpers agree to share gold medal</a>

"The head coach came over to me and said there had been an order from above to remove me," she wrote in the message. "At 5 (pm) they came my room and told me to pack and they took me to the airport."

But she refused to board the flight, telling Reuters: "I will not return to Belarus."

The Belarusian Olympic Committee said in a statement coaches had decided to withdraw Tsimanouskaya from the Games on doctors' advice about her "emotional, psychological state".

Belarus athletics head coach Yuri Moisevich told state television he "could see there was something wrong with her... She either secluded herself or didn't want to talk."

The IOC would continue conversations with Tsimanouskaya on Monday and the Olympics governing body had asked for a full report from the Belarus' Olympic committee, Adams said.

In response to a number of questions by journalists about what the IOC would do to ensure other athletes in the village were protected, the IOC spokesperson said they were still collecting details about what exactly occurred.

SEEKING ASYLUM

A member of the local Belarusian community, who had been in contact with the athlete throughout the night, told Reuters that after long talks with various officials she had petitioned for asylum in Japan.

The Japanese government said the athlete had been kept safe while Tokyo 2020 organisers and the IOC checked her intentions.

"Japan is coordinating with relevant parties and continue to take appropriate action," said chief cabinet secretary Katsunobu Kato.

Both Poland and the Czech Republic offered their help on Monday.

Polish foreign ministry official Marcin Przydacz wrote on Twitter https://twitter.com/marcin_przydacz/status/1421908856377065474 that Tsimanouskaya has been "offered a humanitarian visa and is free to pursue her sporting career in Poland if she so chooses."

Poland's Olympic committee did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Czech foreign minister Jakub Kulhanek said he considered the situation around the Belarusian "scandalous."

"The Czech Republic is ready to help," he tweeted. "We are offering her a visa to enter the territory so that she can apply for international protection with us. Our embassy in Tokyo is also ready to help."

Tsimanouskaya's refusal to board the plane, first reported by Reuters, highlighted discord in Belarus, a former Soviet state that is run with a tight grip by President Alexander Lukashenko.

On Monday, the IOC spokesperson said it had taken a number of actions against Belarus' Olympic Committee in the run up to the Games following nationwide protests in the country.

In March, the IOC refused to recognise https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/olympics-ioc-does-not-recognise-lukashenko-sons-belarus-olympic-vote-2021-03-08 the election of Lukashenko's son Viktor as head of the country's Olympic Committee. Both father and son were banned from attending the Games in December.

A Belarusian athlete who refused to board a flight https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/exclusive-olympics-belarusian-athlete-says-she-was-taken-airport-go-home-after-2021-08-01 after she said she was taken to the airport by her team against her wishes was "safe and secure" in Tokyo, the International Olympic Committee said on Monday.

A Belarusian athlete who refused to board a flight https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/exclusive-olympics-belarusian-athlete-says-she-was-taken-airport-go-home-after-2021-08-01 after she said she was taken to the airport by her team against her wishes was "safe and secure" in Tokyo, the International Olympic Committee said on Monday. Krystsina Tsimanouskaya, 24, spent the night in an airport hotel after she went to Japanese police at Haneda airport seeking protection late on Sunday, IOC spokesperson Mark Adams told a media conference. A number of agencies were in contact with the sprinter, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, he added. In a brewing diplomatic incident, it was unclear where Tsimanouskaya would end up with both Poland and the Czech Republic publicly offering her assistance. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time "She has assured us she is safe and secure. We are talking again to her this morning to understand what the next steps will be," Adams said. "We need to listen to her, find out what she wants and support her in her decision." The sprinter, who was due to race in the 200 metre heats at Olympic Stadium on Monday, had her Games cut short when she said she was taken to the airport to board a Turkish Airlines flight. She told a Reuters reporter via Telegram that the Belarusian head coach had turned up at her room on Sunday at the athletes village and told her she had to leave. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics - 'Can we have two golds': High jumpers agree to share gold medal "The head coach came over to me and said there had been an order from above to remove me," she wrote in the message. "At 5 (pm) they came my room and told me to pack and they took me to the airport." But she refused to board the flight, telling Reuters: "I will not return to Belarus." The Belarusian Olympic Committee said in a statement coaches had decided to withdraw Tsimanouskaya from the Games on doctors' advice about her "emotional, psychological state". Belarus athletics head coach Yuri Moisevich told state television he "could see there was something wrong with her... She either secluded herself or didn't want to talk." The IOC would continue conversations with Tsimanouskaya on Monday and the Olympics governing body had asked for a full report from the Belarus' Olympic committee, Adams said. In response to a number of questions by journalists about what the IOC would do to ensure other athletes in the village were protected, the IOC spokesperson said they were still collecting details about what exactly occurred. SEEKING ASYLUM A member of the local Belarusian community, who had been in contact with the athlete throughout the night, told Reuters that after long talks with various officials she had petitioned for asylum in Japan. The Japanese government said the athlete had been kept safe while Tokyo 2020 organisers and the IOC checked her intentions. "Japan is coordinating with relevant parties and continue to take appropriate action," said chief cabinet secretary Katsunobu Kato. Both Poland and the Czech Republic offered their help on Monday. Polish foreign ministry official Marcin Przydacz wrote on Twitter https://twitter.com/marcin_przydacz/status/1421908856377065474 that Tsimanouskaya has been "offered a humanitarian visa and is free to pursue her sporting career in Poland if she so chooses." Poland's Olympic committee did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Czech foreign minister Jakub Kulhanek said he considered the situation around the Belarusian "scandalous." "The Czech Republic is ready to help," he tweeted. "We are offering her a visa to enter the territory so that she can apply for international protection with us. Our embassy in Tokyo is also ready to help." Tsimanouskaya's refusal to board the plane, first reported by Reuters, highlighted discord in Belarus, a former Soviet state that is run with a tight grip by President Alexander Lukashenko. On Monday, the IOC spokesperson said it had taken a number of actions against Belarus' Olympic Committee in the run up to the Games following nationwide protests in the country. In March, the IOC refused to recognise https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/olympics-ioc-does-not-recognise-lukashenko-sons-belarus-olympic-vote-2021-03-08 the election of Lukashenko's son Viktor as head of the country's Olympic Committee. Both father and son were banned from attending the Games in December.

Olympics: Belarus athlete 'safe and secure' in Tokyo as Poland, Czech offer visas

After refusing to go back home, the Belarusian athlete was spotted being walked into a Polish embassy on Monday. Now, Poland has granted her a humanitarian visa, Poland deputy foreign minister said Monday (August 2).

Poland offers humanitarian visa to Belarusian sprinter Krystsina Tsimanouskaya

India's first super-heavyweight Olympic boxer Satish Kumar went down fighting as he missed out on a medal after losing to Uzbekistan's Bakhokdir Jalolov in the quarter-final of the men's +91kg at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (August 1). Despite the loss, the boxer has earned praises for showing an immense courage as he turned up against his opponent with 13 stitches on his face that he sustained during the pre-quarterfinals.&nbsp;

However, the Commonwealth Games silver-medallist has revealed that his wife had asked him "not to fight" and also his father said that "it is too much" to watch him fight like this. In an interview with PTI, Satish said, "My wife had told me not to fight. My father also said that it is too much to watch me fight like this. That's not unexpected, family can't see you hurt. But then they understood that I wanted to do this."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-indian-womens-hockey-beat-australia-1-0-to-enter-semis-at-olympics-for-the-first-time-402319">Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time</a>

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𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗩𝗢 👏🏻 
 
BFI President Mr. <a href="https://twitter.com/AjaySingh_SG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AjaySingh_SG</a> were all praises for <a href="https://twitter.com/satishyadavbox?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@satishyadavbox</a> on his courageous efforts at the quarterfinals of super heavyweight at <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tokyo2020</a> earlier today as he took boxing great Jalolov 💪🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RingKeBaazigar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RingKeBaazigar</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Boxing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Boxing</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/TxIzHwBL8U">pic.twitter.com/TxIzHwBL8U</a>
— Boxing Federation (@BFI_official) <a href="https://twitter.com/BFI_official/status/1421755335119818752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He opened up about his injury and said, "My chin has seven stitches and my forehead has another six. I knew I wanted to fight. Otherwise, I would have lived with that regret of what if. Now I can be at peace and also probably a little content with myself that I gave my best."

After getting a medical clearance to fight, the 32-year-old boxer displayed a spirited performance in the fight but lost to the technically superior Uzbekistan boxer by unanimous decision.

Also not that, all five Indian men boxers have been knocked out of the tournament, the other four were eliminated in their their respective opening rounds.&nbsp;

However, female boxer Lovlina Borgohain has bagged a medal for India by advancing to the semi-final.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-among-countries-with-highest-cash-rewards-for-tokyo-olympic-medalists-check-out-the-complete-list-402017" hreflang="en">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>

Satish Kumar is also a two-time Asian Games bronze-medallist and a multiple-time national champion. He is and the first super heavyweight from India to qualify for the Olympics.&nbsp;

After the bout, he said, "My phone hasn't stopped ringing, people are congratulating me as if I won."

(with inputs from agencies)

India's first super-heavyweight Olympic boxer Satish Kumar went down fighting as he missed out on a medal after losing to Uzbekistan's Bakhokdir Jalolov in the quarter-final of the men's +91kg at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (August 1).

India's first super-heavyweight Olympic boxer Satish Kumar went down fighting as he missed out on a medal after losing to Uzbekistan's Bakhokdir Jalolov in the quarter-final of the men's +91kg at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (August 1). Despite the loss, the boxer has earned praises for showing an immense courage as he turned up against his opponent with 13 stitches on his face that he sustained during the pre-quarterfinals. However, the Commonwealth Games silver-medallist has revealed that his wife had asked him "not to fight" and also his father said that "it is too much" to watch him fight like this. In an interview with PTI, Satish said, "My wife had told me not to fight. My father also said that it is too much to watch me fight like this. That's not unexpected, family can't see you hurt. But then they understood that I wanted to do this." ALSO READ | Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time 𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗩𝗢 👏🏻 BFI President Mr. @AjaySingh_SG were all praises for @satishyadavbox on his courageous efforts at the quarterfinals of super heavyweight at @Tokyo2020 earlier today as he took boxing great Jalolov 💪🏻#RingKeBaazigar#Boxing#Tokyo2020#Cheer4India#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/TxIzHwBL8U — Boxing Federation (@BFI_official) August 1, 2021 × He opened up about his injury and said, "My chin has seven stitches and my forehead has another six. I knew I wanted to fight. Otherwise, I would have lived with that regret of what if. Now I can be at peace and also probably a little content with myself that I gave my best." After getting a medical clearance to fight, the 32-year-old boxer displayed a spirited performance in the fight but lost to the technically superior Uzbekistan boxer by unanimous decision. Also not that, all five Indian men boxers have been knocked out of the tournament, the other four were eliminated in their their respective opening rounds. However, female boxer Lovlina Borgohain has bagged a medal for India by advancing to the semi-final. ALSO READ | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list Satish Kumar is also a two-time Asian Games bronze-medallist and a multiple-time national champion. He is and the first super heavyweight from India to qualify for the Olympics. After the bout, he said, "My phone hasn't stopped ringing, people are congratulating me as if I won." (with inputs from agencies)

Tokyo Olympics - 'Wife told me not to fight': Boxer Satish Kumar on fighting with 13 stitches in quarter-final

India's ace shuttler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-another-medal-for-india-pv-sindhu-batters-chinas-he-to-win-bronze-402223">PV Sindhu</a> scripted history after winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in badminton women's singles event on Sunday (August 1). With the stunning win, she became the first Indian woman to bag two Olympic medals after Sushil Kumar. The 26-year-old Indian dismissed He Bing jiao 21-13, 21-15 to add a bronze to Rio 2016 silver.

After the third-place&nbsp;match, Sindhu said that she had "a lot of emotions" going through her as after facing a defeat in the semis, it was not easy for India's medal hope to play under pressure, however, she made it looked easier, only because of her grit and dedication.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-among-countries-with-highest-cash-rewards-for-tokyo-olympic-medalists-check-out-the-complete-list-402017" hreflang="en">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>

As quoted by BWF, Sindhu after the match said, "It makes me feel really happy because I've worked hard for so many years. I had a lot of emotions going through me -- should I be happy that I won bronze or sad that I lost the opportunity to play in the final? But overall, I had to close off my emotions for this one match and give it my best, my all. I'm really happy and I think I've done really well. It's a proud moment getting a medal for my country."

She further added, "I'm on cloud nine. I'm going to enjoy this moment. My family have worked hard for me and put in a lot of effort so I'm very thankful. And my sponsors have given me their best so I'd like to thank them and enjoy the moment."

It's important to note that apart from the semi-final against Tai Tzu Ying, Sindhu was performed consistently well in her Tokyo campaign as she didn't drop a single game in her five wins.

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PV Sindhu creates history, becomes the first 🇮🇳 woman to win two medals at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a>. 
 
Her hardwork and determination is an inspiration for athletes all over the world. We are proud of her! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a><a href="https://t.co/29Oq8pNGS8">https://t.co/29Oq8pNGS8</a>
— SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1422026454158639105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/olympics-as-pv-sindhu-wins-bronze-for-india-a-look-at-her-outstanding-journey-at-tokyo-2020-bronze-medal-402245">Olympics: As PV Sindhu wins bronze for India, a look at her outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020</a>

Sindhu bagged the third medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics as she overcame the fighting abilities of China's Bing jiao to &nbsp;join Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain with an outstanding performance at the Musashino Forest Sport Plaza court 1.&nbsp;

About the match, Sindhu said, "We both (Bing Jio) had losses yesterday. For us, it was very important in getting a medal for the country. There were really long rallies but I had to be patient. Even though I was leading, I did not relax."

India's ace shuttler PV Sindhu scripted history after winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in badminton women's singles event on Sunday (August 1). With the stunning win, she became the first Indian woman to bag two Olympic medals after Sushil Kumar.

India's ace shuttler PV Sindhu scripted history after winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in badminton women's singles event on Sunday (August 1). With the stunning win, she became the first Indian woman to bag two Olympic medals after Sushil Kumar. The 26-year-old Indian dismissed He Bing jiao 21-13, 21-15 to add a bronze to Rio 2016 silver. After the third-place match, Sindhu said that she had "a lot of emotions" going through her as after facing a defeat in the semis, it was not easy for India's medal hope to play under pressure, however, she made it looked easier, only because of her grit and dedication. ALSO READ | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list As quoted by BWF, Sindhu after the match said, "It makes me feel really happy because I've worked hard for so many years. I had a lot of emotions going through me -- should I be happy that I won bronze or sad that I lost the opportunity to play in the final? But overall, I had to close off my emotions for this one match and give it my best, my all. I'm really happy and I think I've done really well. It's a proud moment getting a medal for my country." She further added, "I'm on cloud nine. I'm going to enjoy this moment. My family have worked hard for me and put in a lot of effort so I'm very thankful. And my sponsors have given me their best so I'd like to thank them and enjoy the moment." It's important to note that apart from the semi-final against Tai Tzu Ying, Sindhu was performed consistently well in her Tokyo campaign as she didn't drop a single game in her five wins. PV Sindhu creates history, becomes the first 🇮🇳 woman to win two medals at the #Olympics. Her hardwork and determination is an inspiration for athletes all over the world. We are proud of her! #Tokyo2020 #Cheer4Indiahttps://t.co/29Oq8pNGS8 — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 2, 2021 × IN PICS | Olympics: As PV Sindhu wins bronze for India, a look at her outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020 Sindhu bagged the third medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics as she overcame the fighting abilities of China's Bing jiao to join Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain with an outstanding performance at the Musashino Forest Sport Plaza court 1. About the match, Sindhu said, "We both (Bing Jio) had losses yesterday. For us, it was very important in getting a medal for the country. There were really long rallies but I had to be patient. Even though I was leading, I did not relax."

Tokyo Olympics: 'I had to close off my emotions,' says PV Sindhu after bronze-medal win

Born in Haryana, Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia made her introduction in the international hockey circuit in 2008, during a four-country event of Germany and the Netherlands.

As a little youngster, Savita used to travel 30 km multiple times each week from her town Jodhkan to Sirsa to sharpen her hockey abilities. Maharaja Agrasain school was the lone spot around her town that had hockey training facilities and coaches.

Nobody in her family had taken up any sport as a profession. It was her grandfather who urged her to play the game and not surrender when things got intense.

At the age of 17, Savita made her debut in the international circuit after showing incredible potential in the junior group.

In 2013, she took part in the women's Asia Cup which was one of her best matches. Savita Punia saved two essential goals in the penalty shoot-out, which assisted India with winning a bronze medal.&nbsp;

Additionally, she was also a part of the bronze medal-winning team at the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-indian-womens-hockey-team-beat-australia-1-0-to-enter-semis-at-olympics-for-the-first-time-402319" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time</a>

She was instrumental in assisting the women's team with qualifying for the Rio Olympics after 36 years. She saved a foremost goal against Japan, which assisted them with winning 1-0.&nbsp;

In the 2018 Asia Cup, Savita showed her abilities once more, as she saved an extraordinary goal against China, which permitted her to win the goalkeeper of the tournament, and a place in the 2018 World Cup in London.

Her exceptional exhibition assisted the women's Indian team with beating Chile in the last match of the Women's Hockey World League Round two.&nbsp;

She was granted the Baljit Singh Goalkeeper of the Year award at the Hockey India Annual Awards in 2015, for having wonderful exhibitions for India in international commitments which demonstrated her value as the best goalkeeper in the country.

Savita Punia has been significant for the Indian women's hockey team in getting a few wins throughout the long term.&nbsp;

The quarter-final of Tokyo Olympics was one such day where Indian spectators couldn't contain their bliss as the women's team qualified for the semi-finals for the first time. Regardless of the torrent of attacks by the Australians, the "Indian wall" couldn't be penetrated.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-i-think-this-is-the-chak-de-india-in-reality-says-indian-womens-hockey-coach-402361" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: 'I think this is the Chak de India in reality,' says Indian women's hockey coach</a>

A tremendous part of this splendor could be credited to the thrilling Savita Punia. The Indian goalkeeper was brilliant today and made things extremely challenging for the mighty Aussies.

Her marvelous saves in the middle of the posts assisted India with keeping the lead all through the game, taking a 1-0 success over Australia.&nbsp;

The Aussies continued attacking, just to have the entirety of their endeavors denied by Indian women's best goalkeeper, Savita Punia.

The astonishing goalkeeper pulled of dazzling saves from penalty corners just as open play. An aggregate of nine&nbsp;penalty corner saves were made by the Indian goalkeeper.&nbsp;

She displayed her defense splendidly, and the undaunted backline didn't allow the Aussies to draw things level, subsequently helping India to quite possibly the most noteworthy successes over the years.

Born in Haryana, Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia made her introduction in the international hockey circuit in 2008, during a four-country event of Germany and the Netherlands.

Born in Haryana, Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia made her introduction in the international hockey circuit in 2008, during a four-country event of Germany and the Netherlands. As a little youngster, Savita used to travel 30 km multiple times each week from her town Jodhkan to Sirsa to sharpen her hockey abilities. Maharaja Agrasain school was the lone spot around her town that had hockey training facilities and coaches. Nobody in her family had taken up any sport as a profession. It was her grandfather who urged her to play the game and not surrender when things got intense. At the age of 17, Savita made her debut in the international circuit after showing incredible potential in the junior group. In 2013, she took part in the women's Asia Cup which was one of her best matches. Savita Punia saved two essential goals in the penalty shoot-out, which assisted India with winning a bronze medal. Additionally, she was also a part of the bronze medal-winning team at the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time She was instrumental in assisting the women's team with qualifying for the Rio Olympics after 36 years. She saved a foremost goal against Japan, which assisted them with winning 1-0. In the 2018 Asia Cup, Savita showed her abilities once more, as she saved an extraordinary goal against China, which permitted her to win the goalkeeper of the tournament, and a place in the 2018 World Cup in London. Her exceptional exhibition assisted the women's Indian team with beating Chile in the last match of the Women's Hockey World League Round two. She was granted the Baljit Singh Goalkeeper of the Year award at the Hockey India Annual Awards in 2015, for having wonderful exhibitions for India in international commitments which demonstrated her value as the best goalkeeper in the country. Savita Punia has been significant for the Indian women's hockey team in getting a few wins throughout the long term. The quarter-final of Tokyo Olympics was one such day where Indian spectators couldn't contain their bliss as the women's team qualified for the semi-finals for the first time. Regardless of the torrent of attacks by the Australians, the "Indian wall" couldn't be penetrated. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: 'I think this is the Chak de India in reality,' says Indian women's hockey coach A tremendous part of this splendor could be credited to the thrilling Savita Punia. The Indian goalkeeper was brilliant today and made things extremely challenging for the mighty Aussies. Her marvelous saves in the middle of the posts assisted India with keeping the lead all through the game, taking a 1-0 success over Australia. The Aussies continued attacking, just to have the entirety of their endeavors denied by Indian women's best goalkeeper, Savita Punia. The astonishing goalkeeper pulled of dazzling saves from penalty corners just as open play. An aggregate of nine penalty corner saves were made by the Indian goalkeeper. She displayed her defense splendidly, and the undaunted backline didn't allow the Aussies to draw things level, subsequently helping India to quite possibly the most noteworthy successes over the years.

Olympics: 'The Great Wall' Savita Punia is 'keeping' India's hopes at Tokyo 2020

Four-time Olympic diving gold medallist Shi Tingmao has revealed her struggles with depression, joining US gymnastics superstar Simone Biles in openly discussing her mental health at the Tokyo Games.

China's Shi comfortably won the 3m springboard title for her second gold in Japan but cut a tearful figure in the immediate aftermath at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre.

The 29-year-old later said she had considered quitting diving after her form dipped last year.

"I have to really take care of my mental state and make sure I don't get into a depression," Shi told a post-competition press conference in unusually open comments for China's often-guarded athletes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-transgender-weightlifter-in-olympic-debut-as-games-hot-up-402406" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Transgender weightlifter in Olympic debut as Games hot up</a>

"I have worked with a psychiatrist or psychologist who helped me quite a bit with some of the mental stresses of being a competitive diver and dealing with depression and things like that."

Hinting that she reached such a low that she might have given up the sport, she added: "I really love diving and I realized that there was no way that I could give it up.

"So to get to this point today was not easy."

Shi, who also won two golds at Rio 2016, revealed the internal conflict she has had to deal with.

"There are two of me in my mental state that actually fight with one another," she said.

"Part of me says 'you're a gold medallist, you can take a break, you can be done. Another part of me says 'you can't give this up, you love diving'."

Shi said she had not seen her family for 18 months because she had been so dedicated to her training and "we actually had very little contact".

"I'm sure my family have been worried for me but I also hope, through the screen, when we see each other, I can speak to my family and say that they have nothing to worry about, everything's fine."

Gymnast Biles came to the Tokyo Games as one of the standout stars but she has pulled out of a series of events and admitted she needed to take care of her mental wellbeing.

It comes weeks after another of the world's highest-profile athletes, Japanese star Naomi Osaka, took a break from tennis after revealing she had suffered depression. 
&nbsp;

Four-time Olympic diving gold medallist Shi Tingmao has revealed her struggles with depression, joining US gymnastics superstar Simone Biles in openly discussing her mental health at the Tokyo Games.

Four-time Olympic diving gold medallist Shi Tingmao has revealed her struggles with depression, joining US gymnastics superstar Simone Biles in openly discussing her mental health at the Tokyo Games. China's Shi comfortably won the 3m springboard title for her second gold in Japan but cut a tearful figure in the immediate aftermath at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre. The 29-year-old later said she had considered quitting diving after her form dipped last year. "I have to really take care of my mental state and make sure I don't get into a depression," Shi told a post-competition press conference in unusually open comments for China's often-guarded athletes. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Transgender weightlifter in Olympic debut as Games hot up "I have worked with a psychiatrist or psychologist who helped me quite a bit with some of the mental stresses of being a competitive diver and dealing with depression and things like that." Hinting that she reached such a low that she might have given up the sport, she added: "I really love diving and I realized that there was no way that I could give it up. "So to get to this point today was not easy." Shi, who also won two golds at Rio 2016, revealed the internal conflict she has had to deal with. "There are two of me in my mental state that actually fight with one another," she said. "Part of me says 'you're a gold medallist, you can take a break, you can be done. Another part of me says 'you can't give this up, you love diving'." Shi said she had not seen her family for 18 months because she had been so dedicated to her training and "we actually had very little contact". "I'm sure my family have been worried for me but I also hope, through the screen, when we see each other, I can speak to my family and say that they have nothing to worry about, everything's fine." Gymnast Biles came to the Tokyo Games as one of the standout stars but she has pulled out of a series of events and admitted she needed to take care of her mental wellbeing. It comes weeks after another of the world's highest-profile athletes, Japanese star Naomi Osaka, took a break from tennis after revealing she had suffered depression.

Tokyo 2020: Chinese Olympic diving champion Shi Tingmao tells of depression struggle

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

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

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

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

Jean Quiquampoix of France won the gold in the men`s 25-metre rapid fire pistol event in the Tokyo Olympics at the Asaka Shooting Range on Monday. 
 
Cuba`s Leuris Pupo won silver, while the bronze went to Li Yuehong of China. 
 
Quiquampoix, who had claimed the silver in the 2016 Rio Games, registered 34 hits out of 40 for a comprehensive victory ahead of 2012 London champion Pupo who managed 29.\

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-indian-womens-hockey-team-beat-australia-1-0-to-enter-semis-at-olympics-for-the-first-time-402319">Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time</a> 
 
Defending champion Christian Reitz had topped the two-stage qualifying round before faltering in the final. 
 
The German was the fifth to be eliminated from medal contention following world champion Lin Junmin of China. 
 
Li repeated his Rio performance to claim his second consecutive Olympic bronze in the event. 
 
Zhang Changhong of China won the men`s 50-metre rifle three positions gold with a world record score of 466. 
 
Russian Sergey Kamenskiy took the silver while Serbian Milenko Sebic claimed the bronze.

Jean Quiquampoix of France won the gold in the men`s 25-metre rapid fire pistol event in the Tokyo Olympics at the Asaka Shooting Range on Monday. Cuba`s Leuris Pupo won silver, while the bronze went to Li Yuehong of China.

Jean Quiquampoix of France won the gold in the men`s 25-metre rapid fire pistol event in the Tokyo Olympics at the Asaka Shooting Range on Monday. Cuba`s Leuris Pupo won silver, while the bronze went to Li Yuehong of China. Quiquampoix, who had claimed the silver in the 2016 Rio Games, registered 34 hits out of 40 for a comprehensive victory ahead of 2012 London champion Pupo who managed 29.\ ALSO READ | Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time Defending champion Christian Reitz had topped the two-stage qualifying round before faltering in the final. The German was the fifth to be eliminated from medal contention following world champion Lin Junmin of China. Li repeated his Rio performance to claim his second consecutive Olympic bronze in the event. Zhang Changhong of China won the men`s 50-metre rifle three positions gold with a world record score of 466. Russian Sergey Kamenskiy took the silver while Serbian Milenko Sebic claimed the bronze.

Olympics shooting: Jean Quiquampoix of France wins 25m rapid fire pistol gold

Krystsina Tsimanouskaya, a 24-year-old Belarusian athlete, has triggered a political row after she <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-belarus-athlete-safe-and-secure-in-tokyo-as-poland-czech-offer-visas-402334">refused an order to fly home</a> early from the Tokyo Olympics 2020. The track sprinter has also voiced fears for her safety and urged the International Olympic Committee for help. Krystsina was asked to pack and was taken to the airport in Tokyo 'against her will' for allegedly 'criticising' her coaches. However, she did not board the flight and took help from the Japanese police at the airport.&nbsp;

After refusing to go back home, the Belarusian athlete was spotted being walked into a Polish embassy on Monday. Now, Poland has granted her a humanitarian visa, Poland deputy foreign minister said Monday (August 2).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-among-countries-with-highest-cash-rewards-for-tokyo-olympic-medalists-check-out-the-complete-list-402017" hreflang="en">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>

Tsimanouskaya "is already in direct contact with Polish diplomats in Tokyo. She has received a humanitarian visa. Poland will do whatever is necessary to help her to continue her sporting career," Marcin Przydacz wrote on Twitter.

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Kryscina Tsimanouskaya a Belarusian athlet is already in direct contact with Polish diplomats in Tokyo. She has received a humanitarian Visa. Poland will do whatever is necessary to help her to continue her sporting career. 🇵🇱 always stands for Solidarity.
— Marcin Przydacz (@marcin_przydacz) <a href="https://twitter.com/marcin_przydacz/status/1422146358958596100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Foreign ministry officials were quoted by Polish media saying they expected the athlete to travel to Poland this week

Here's what happened:

In a video, shared on the Telegram channel of the Belarusian Sport Solidarity Foundation (BSSF), Krystsina revealed that "They [the officials] are trying to get me out of the country without my permission". However, she refused to leave and sought the protection of Japanese police at the airport. BSSF, which was set up in August 2020, supports athletes that have been jailed or sidelined for their political views.&nbsp;

The sprinter, who was supposed to compete in the women's 200m event on Monday (August 2), had also complained about being asked to enter into another race at short notice. In the video, she alleged that after some teammates were found to be ineligible to compete, she was added to the 400m relay event (scheduled for this Thursday (August 5)) at short notice by Belarusian officials. She said,&nbsp;she was "put under pressure".&nbsp;

"The head coach came over to me and said there had been an order from above to remove me," she wrote in the message. "At 5 (pm) they came my room and told me to pack and they took me to the airport."

But she refused to board the flight, telling Reuters: "I will not return to&nbsp;Belarus."

"I think I am safe. I am with the police," she was heard saying at the airport.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-indian-womens-hockey-team-beat-australia-1-0-to-enter-semis-at-olympics-for-the-first-time-402319">Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time</a>

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Kristina <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Timanovskaya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Timanovskaya</a> asks for help from the International Olympic Committee, since she can be deported from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo</a> by the Belarusian invaders at any time. She's under pressure. 
Pay attention <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Olympic</a>, please<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeBelarus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeBelarus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%96%D1%8B%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%91%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%80%D1%83%D1%81%D1%8C?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ЖывеБеларусь</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithBelarus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithBelarus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BelarusSolidarity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BelarusSolidarity</a> <a href="https://t.co/UEC9RSGBon">pic.twitter.com/UEC9RSGBon</a>
— Camilla Sadirova (@camilllca) <a href="https://twitter.com/camilllca/status/1421822925192237057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<meta name="uuid" content="uuidDsd9u65N5uty" /><meta charset="utf-8" />What Belarusian Olympic Committee said?

As soon as the incident came into the limelight, The Belarusian Olympic Committee said in a statement that the coaches had decided to withdraw Tsimanouskaya from the Games on doctors' advice about her "emotional, psychological state".&nbsp;

Yuri Moisevich, as quoted by Reuters, the Belarus athletics head coach told state television that he "could see there was something wrong with her... She either secluded herself or didn't want to talk."&nbsp;

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidDsd9u65N5uty" /><meta charset="utf-8" />

What IOC said?

On being asked about the safety of athletes, the IOC said they were still collecting details about what exactly happened.&nbsp;

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidDsd9u65N5uty" /><meta charset="utf-8" />

What Japanese government say?

The Japanese government said the athlete had been kept safe while Tokyo 2020 organisers and the IOC checked her intentions. "Japan is coordinating with relevant parties and continue to take appropriate action," said chief cabinet secretary Katsunobu Kato.

What's next?

Poland has granted a humanitarian visa to Krystsina. Poland's deputy foreign minister said said Tsimanouskaya had turned to Poland for help out of her "very difficult" situation and was "safe on the grounds of our embassy" in Tokyo, news channel TVN24 reported.

"Poland offers support to Belarusian citizens who for political reasons either want to leave Belarusian territory or do not want to return to Belarus," he said.&nbsp;

Earlier, the minister had raised the issue and wrote on Twitter that Tsimanouskaya has been "offered a humanitarian visa and is free to pursue her sporting career in Poland if she so chooses."

&nbsp;

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Poland 🇵🇱 is ready to help Kryscina Tsimanouskaya a Belarusian athlete ordered by the Lukashenka regime to return form Olympic Games to Minsk. She was offered a humanitarian visa and is free to pursue her sporting career in Poland if she so chooses.
— Marcin Przydacz (@marcin_przydacz) <a href="https://twitter.com/marcin_przydacz/status/1421908856377065474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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(with inputs from agencies)

Click <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports">here</a> for all sports updates!

Krystsina Tsimanouskaya, a 24-year-old Belarusian athlete, has triggered a political row after she refused an order to fly home early from the Tokyo Olympics 2020.

Krystsina Tsimanouskaya, a 24-year-old Belarusian athlete, has triggered a political row after she refused an order to fly home early from the Tokyo Olympics 2020. The track sprinter has also voiced fears for her safety and urged the International Olympic Committee for help. Krystsina was asked to pack and was taken to the airport in Tokyo 'against her will' for allegedly 'criticising' her coaches. However, she did not board the flight and took help from the Japanese police at the airport. After refusing to go back home, the Belarusian athlete was spotted being walked into a Polish embassy on Monday. Now, Poland has granted her a humanitarian visa, Poland deputy foreign minister said Monday (August 2). ALSO READ | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list Tsimanouskaya "is already in direct contact with Polish diplomats in Tokyo. She has received a humanitarian visa. Poland will do whatever is necessary to help her to continue her sporting career," Marcin Przydacz wrote on Twitter. Kryscina Tsimanouskaya a Belarusian athlet is already in direct contact with Polish diplomats in Tokyo. She has received a humanitarian Visa. Poland will do whatever is necessary to help her to continue her sporting career. 🇵🇱 always stands for Solidarity. — Marcin Przydacz (@marcin_przydacz) August 2, 2021 × Foreign ministry officials were quoted by Polish media saying they expected the athlete to travel to Poland this week Here's what happened: In a video, shared on the Telegram channel of the Belarusian Sport Solidarity Foundation (BSSF), Krystsina revealed that "They [the officials] are trying to get me out of the country without my permission". However, she refused to leave and sought the protection of Japanese police at the airport. BSSF, which was set up in August 2020, supports athletes that have been jailed or sidelined for their political views. The sprinter, who was supposed to compete in the women's 200m event on Monday (August 2), had also complained about being asked to enter into another race at short notice. In the video, she alleged that after some teammates were found to be ineligible to compete, she was added to the 400m relay event (scheduled for this Thursday (August 5)) at short notice by Belarusian officials. She said, she was "put under pressure". "The head coach came over to me and said there had been an order from above to remove me," she wrote in the message. "At 5 (pm) they came my room and told me to pack and they took me to the airport." But she refused to board the flight, telling Reuters: "I will not return to Belarus." "I think I am safe. I am with the police," she was heard saying at the airport. ALSO READ | Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time Kristina #Timanovskaya asks for help from the International Olympic Committee, since she can be deported from #Tokyo by the Belarusian invaders at any time. She's under pressure. Pay attention @Olympic, please#FreeBelarus #ЖывеБеларусь #StandWithBelarus #BelarusSolidarity pic.twitter.com/UEC9RSGBon — Camilla Sadirova (@camilllca) August 1, 2021 × What Belarusian Olympic Committee said? As soon as the incident came into the limelight, The Belarusian Olympic Committee said in a statement that the coaches had decided to withdraw Tsimanouskaya from the Games on doctors' advice about her "emotional, psychological state". Yuri Moisevich, as quoted by Reuters, the Belarus athletics head coach told state television that he "could see there was something wrong with her... She either secluded herself or didn't want to talk." What IOC said? On being asked about the safety of athletes, the IOC said they were still collecting details about what exactly happened. What Japanese government say? The Japanese government said the athlete had been kept safe while Tokyo 2020 organisers and the IOC checked her intentions. "Japan is coordinating with relevant parties and continue to take appropriate action," said chief cabinet secretary Katsunobu Kato. What's next? Poland has granted a humanitarian visa to Krystsina. Poland's deputy foreign minister said said Tsimanouskaya had turned to Poland for help out of her "very difficult" situation and was "safe on the grounds of our embassy" in Tokyo, news channel TVN24 reported. "Poland offers support to Belarusian citizens who for political reasons either want to leave Belarusian territory or do not want to return to Belarus," he said. Earlier, the minister had raised the issue and wrote on Twitter that Tsimanouskaya has been "offered a humanitarian visa and is free to pursue her sporting career in Poland if she so chooses." Poland 🇵🇱 is ready to help Kryscina Tsimanouskaya a Belarusian athlete ordered by the Lukashenka regime to return form Olympic Games to Minsk. She was offered a humanitarian visa and is free to pursue her sporting career in Poland if she so chooses. — Marcin Przydacz (@marcin_przydacz) August 1, 2021 × (with inputs from agencies) Click here for all sports updates!

Tokyo Olympics - 'I will not return': Belarusian athlete gets Poland visa, here's how the drama unfolded

American Jade Carey won women's gymnastics floor gold at the Olympics on Monday in a quick upturn in fortune after disappointing in the vault final 24 hours earlier.

The 21-year-old from Arizona tumbled her way to a score of 14.366 to take the title from Italian 30-year-old veteran Vanessa Ferrari.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-gymnastics-simone-biles-to-compete-in-balance-beam-final-402369" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics gymnastics: Simone Biles to compete in balance beam final</a>

There was a rare dead-heat for bronze between&nbsp;Japan's Mai Murakami and Angelina Melnikova, who led the Russians to team gold last week.

For Carey, this was rapid redemption after she stumbled on landing on her first vault on Sunday and cut a sorrowful figure after her second jump.

Those tears of frustration were well and truly dissipated when her technically taxing and expertly executed floor routine earned her gold to continue the USA's productive time at the Ariake Gymnastics Centre, despite Simone Biles's absence.

American Jade Carey won women's gymnastics floor gold at the Olympics on Monday in a quick upturn in fortune after disappointing in the vault final 24 hours earlier.

American Jade Carey won women's gymnastics floor gold at the Olympics on Monday in a quick upturn in fortune after disappointing in the vault final 24 hours earlier. The 21-year-old from Arizona tumbled her way to a score of 14.366 to take the title from Italian 30-year-old veteran Vanessa Ferrari. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics gymnastics: Simone Biles to compete in balance beam final There was a rare dead-heat for bronze between Japan's Mai Murakami and Angelina Melnikova, who led the Russians to team gold last week. For Carey, this was rapid redemption after she stumbled on landing on her first vault on Sunday and cut a sorrowful figure after her second jump. Those tears of frustration were well and truly dissipated when her technically taxing and expertly executed floor routine earned her gold to continue the USA's productive time at the Ariake Gymnastics Centre, despite Simone Biles's absence.

Tokyo 2020: America's Jade Carey wins women's gymnastics floor gold at Olympics

Transgender weightlifter Laurel Hubbard takes center stage at the Tokyo Games on Monday and Ethiopia-born Dutch runner Sifan Hassan faces a daunting day on the athletics track in her ambitious pursuit of an Olympic treble.

On day four of the athletics in the sweltering Japanese capital, the 28-year-old Hassan will run in heat in the 1500m in the morning, before again taking to the track in the evening session for the final of the 5,000m.&nbsp;

The two-time world champion will also go in the 10,000m later in the Games, which are now into their final week and hotting up in every sense&nbsp;temperatures in Tokyo over the coming week are forecast to range from maximums of 30 to 34 Celsius (up to 94F).

There will also be the women's 100m hurdles final and men's long-jump final Monday, while there are three gold medals up for grabs in gymnastics&nbsp;in men's rings, women's floor exercise, and men's vault.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-belarus-athlete-safe-and-secure-in-tokyo-as-poland-czech-offer-visas-402334" hreflang="en">Olympics: Belarus athlete 'safe and secure' in Tokyo as Poland, Czech offer visas</a>

Golds are also going begging in badminton, wrestling, shooting, sailing, and event jumping.

Track cycling meanwhile gets underway at these pandemic-delayed Games, with the women's team sprint title the first gold at Izu Velodrome.

But it is weightlifting that will be in the spotlight because of New Zealand's Hubbard.

The 43-year-old, who was born male and competed as a man before transitioning to become a woman, makes her Olympic debut -- the IOC says she is the first openly transgender woman to compete at a Games, hailing it as a landmark moment for the Olympic movement.

However, her historic presence in the women's +87kg category on the elite stage raises complex issues of bioethics, human rights, science, fairness and identity in sport.

"Laurel Hubbard is a woman, is competing under the rules of her federation and we have to pay tribute to her courage and tenacity in competing and qualifying for the Games," IOC medical chief Richard Budgett told reporters in Tokyo.

Supporters say her appearance is a victory for inclusion and trans rights.

Critics argue she has an unfair advantage over female rivals due to physical attributes locked into her body during her decades as a male.

Transgender weightlifter Laurel Hubbard takes center stage at the Tokyo Games on Monday and Ethiopia-born Dutch runner Sifan Hassan faces a daunting day on the athletics track in her ambitious pursuit of an Olympic treble.

Transgender weightlifter Laurel Hubbard takes center stage at the Tokyo Games on Monday and Ethiopia-born Dutch runner Sifan Hassan faces a daunting day on the athletics track in her ambitious pursuit of an Olympic treble. On day four of the athletics in the sweltering Japanese capital, the 28-year-old Hassan will run in heat in the 1500m in the morning, before again taking to the track in the evening session for the final of the 5,000m. The two-time world champion will also go in the 10,000m later in the Games, which are now into their final week and hotting up in every sense temperatures in Tokyo over the coming week are forecast to range from maximums of 30 to 34 Celsius (up to 94F). There will also be the women's 100m hurdles final and men's long-jump final Monday, while there are three gold medals up for grabs in gymnastics in men's rings, women's floor exercise, and men's vault. ALSO READ: Olympics: Belarus athlete 'safe and secure' in Tokyo as Poland, Czech offer visas Golds are also going begging in badminton, wrestling, shooting, sailing, and event jumping. Track cycling meanwhile gets underway at these pandemic-delayed Games, with the women's team sprint title the first gold at Izu Velodrome. But it is weightlifting that will be in the spotlight because of New Zealand's Hubbard. The 43-year-old, who was born male and competed as a man before transitioning to become a woman, makes her Olympic debut -- the IOC says she is the first openly transgender woman to compete at a Games, hailing it as a landmark moment for the Olympic movement. However, her historic presence in the women's +87kg category on the elite stage raises complex issues of bioethics, human rights, science, fairness and identity in sport. "Laurel Hubbard is a woman, is competing under the rules of her federation and we have to pay tribute to her courage and tenacity in competing and qualifying for the Games," IOC medical chief Richard Budgett told reporters in Tokyo. Supporters say her appearance is a victory for inclusion and trans rights. Critics argue she has an unfair advantage over female rivals due to physical attributes locked into her body during her decades as a male.

Tokyo 2020: Transgender weightlifter in Olympic debut as Games hot up

Celebratory messages poured in as P V Sindhu crushed China's He Bing Jiao to win the bronze award in women's badminton singles at the Tokyo Olympics. She is the first Indian woman to win two individual awards at the Olympics.&nbsp;

Commending the shuttler's exhibition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sindhu is "India's pride". "We are all elated by the stellar performance by @Pvsindhu1. Congratulations to her on winning the Bronze at @Tokyo2020. She is India's pride and one of our most outstanding Olympians," he tweeted.

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We are all elated by the stellar performance by <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pvsindhu1</a>. Congratulations to her on winning the Bronze at <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tokyo2020</a>. She is India’s pride and one of our most outstanding Olympians. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/O8Ay3JWT7q">pic.twitter.com/O8Ay3JWT7q</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-pv-sindhus-sincere-encouragement-made-me-cry-says-tai-tzu-ying-402318" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu's sincere encouragement made me cry, says Tai Tzu-Ying</a>

Addressing the media after PV Sindhu's triumph, her father P V Ramana said the Prime Minister had revealed to her that he will have ice cream with her if she wins a medal.&nbsp;

"Now Sindhu will now have ice cream with PM Modi," he said.

"The encouragement PM Modi had given to her, he had said, 'you go, we will have ice cream when you come back,' so she will now definitely go and have ice cream with the Prime Minister," he added.

"I am happy that she is the first Indian woman to win two consecutive medals at the Olympics. She has brought name and fame to the country," PV Ramana said.

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"Sindhu is focused and she has that hunger. She enjoys the game," he added.

He said that while he was confident that she would win the gold medal, winning the bronze is likewise a colossal accomplishment.&nbsp;

"Whenever she has gone (to the Olympics), she has brought a medal. She went the last time, she won a medal and she has done it this time too," he concluded.

Celebratory messages poured in as P V Sindhu crushed China's He Bing Jiao to win the bronze award in women's badminton singles at the Tokyo Olympics. She is the first Indian woman to win two individual awards at the Olympics.

Celebratory messages poured in as P V Sindhu crushed China's He Bing Jiao to win the bronze award in women's badminton singles at the Tokyo Olympics. She is the first Indian woman to win two individual awards at the Olympics. Commending the shuttler's exhibition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sindhu is "India's pride". "We are all elated by the stellar performance by @Pvsindhu1. Congratulations to her on winning the Bronze at @Tokyo2020. She is India's pride and one of our most outstanding Olympians," he tweeted. We are all elated by the stellar performance by @Pvsindhu1. Congratulations to her on winning the Bronze at @Tokyo2020. She is India’s pride and one of our most outstanding Olympians. #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/O8Ay3JWT7q — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 1, 2021 × ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu's sincere encouragement made me cry, says Tai Tzu-Ying Addressing the media after PV Sindhu's triumph, her father P V Ramana said the Prime Minister had revealed to her that he will have ice cream with her if she wins a medal. "Now Sindhu will now have ice cream with PM Modi," he said. "The encouragement PM Modi had given to her, he had said, 'you go, we will have ice cream when you come back,' so she will now definitely go and have ice cream with the Prime Minister," he added. "I am happy that she is the first Indian woman to win two consecutive medals at the Olympics. She has brought name and fame to the country," PV Ramana said. × "Sindhu is focused and she has that hunger. She enjoys the game," he added. He said that while he was confident that she would win the gold medal, winning the bronze is likewise a colossal accomplishment. "Whenever she has gone (to the Olympics), she has brought a medal. She went the last time, she won a medal and she has done it this time too," he concluded.

Tokyo Olympics: 'She will now have ice cream with PM Modi,' says PV Sindhu's father

Simone Biles will compete in Tuesday's balance beam final, the last women's event on the Tokyo Olympics gymnastics schedule, officials confirmed on Monday.

"We are so excited to confirm that you will see two U.S. athletes in the balance beam final tomorrow - Suni Lee AND Simone Biles!! Can’t wait to watch you both!" USA Gymnastics said in a statement.

It will be the first time the American will be seen competing in Tokyo following her withdrawal from last Tuesday's women's team final after her opening vault, citing mental health issues.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-winning-for-my-country-was-important-says-indian-badminton-star-pv-sindhu-on-her-olympics-bronze-402342">EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze</a>

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BREAKING: <a href="https://twitter.com/Simone_Biles?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simone_Biles</a> will compete in Tuesday's women's balance beam final on the last day of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/artisticgymnastics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#artisticgymnastics</a> competition at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a><a href="https://twitter.com/TeamUSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TeamUSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/USAGym?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAGym</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrongerTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrongerTogether</a><a href="https://t.co/x3T9JoYIuc">https://t.co/x3T9JoYIuc</a>
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The 24-year-old American, who won four golds at the 2016 Rio Games, dropped out of the all-around, floor exercise, vault and asymmetric bars finals.

Biles is the reigning world champion on the beam and picked up an Olympic bronze on the apparatus in Rio.

Biles has suffered a crisis of confidence in Tokyo as she dealt with the "twisties" -- where gymnasts are disoriented during their gravity-defying sequences.

"It's honestly petrifying trying to do a skill but not having your mind &amp; body in sync," Biles explained in an Instagram story, in which she answered fan questions and shared practice videos.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-among-countries-with-highest-cash-rewards-for-tokyo-olympic-medalists-check-out-the-complete-list-402017" hreflang="en">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>

While a number of difficult acrobatic skills have to be performed on the beam, fast-paced tumbling and aerial twisting manoeuvres are limited on the apparatus, hence providing Biles with the opportunity to add to the team silver medal she picked up last week.

Despite not competing, Biles has been a constant presence at the Ariake Gymnastics Centre over the past week to support her U.S. team mates. Biles cheered on Sunisa Lee, who succeeded her as Olympic all-around champion, and Mykayla Skinner, who stepped in for her in women's vault final on Sunday and won silver.

Simone Biles will compete in Tuesday's balance beam final, the last women's event on the Tokyo Olympics gymnastics schedule, officials confirmed on Monday. "We are so excited to confirm that you will see two U.

Simone Biles will compete in Tuesday's balance beam final, the last women's event on the Tokyo Olympics gymnastics schedule, officials confirmed on Monday. "We are so excited to confirm that you will see two U.S. athletes in the balance beam final tomorrow - Suni Lee AND Simone Biles!! Can’t wait to watch you both!" USA Gymnastics said in a statement. It will be the first time the American will be seen competing in Tokyo following her withdrawal from last Tuesday's women's team final after her opening vault, citing mental health issues. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze BREAKING: @Simone_Biles will compete in Tuesday's women's balance beam final on the last day of #artisticgymnastics competition at #Tokyo2020@TeamUSA @USAGym #StrongerTogetherhttps://t.co/x3T9JoYIuc — Olympics (@Olympics) August 2, 2021 × The 24-year-old American, who won four golds at the 2016 Rio Games, dropped out of the all-around, floor exercise, vault and asymmetric bars finals. Biles is the reigning world champion on the beam and picked up an Olympic bronze on the apparatus in Rio. Biles has suffered a crisis of confidence in Tokyo as she dealt with the "twisties" -- where gymnasts are disoriented during their gravity-defying sequences. "It's honestly petrifying trying to do a skill but not having your mind & body in sync," Biles explained in an Instagram story, in which she answered fan questions and shared practice videos. ALSO READ | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list While a number of difficult acrobatic skills have to be performed on the beam, fast-paced tumbling and aerial twisting manoeuvres are limited on the apparatus, hence providing Biles with the opportunity to add to the team silver medal she picked up last week. Despite not competing, Biles has been a constant presence at the Ariake Gymnastics Centre over the past week to support her U.S. team mates. Biles cheered on Sunisa Lee, who succeeded her as Olympic all-around champion, and Mykayla Skinner, who stepped in for her in women's vault final on Sunday and won silver.

Tokyo Olympics gymnastics: Simone Biles to compete in balance beam final

History was scripted&nbsp;when the hooter was blown for the last time on Monday during the Indian women's hockey team quarterfinal match against Australia concerning the first run through in the set of experiences the Indian women's team got an Olympic semifinal billet.&nbsp;

Gurjit Kaur scored from a penalty corner in the second quarter was sufficient for India to progress to the detriment of three-time champions and world no.2 Australia. India put&nbsp;a tough execution all through the match and effectively guarded nine penalty corners in the match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-indian-womens-hockey-team-beat-australia-1-0-to-enter-semis-at-olympics-for-the-first-time-402319" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time</a>

"How my heart was? It's still working. I was like but that's in every match in the last three games," women's team coach Sjoerd Marijne said.&nbsp;

"Oh man, what we've tried to do and what we have done is work match by match. What can we improve in the next one and the next one", he added.&nbsp;

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Sorry family , I coming again later 😊❤️ <a href="https://t.co/h4uUTqx11F">pic.twitter.com/h4uUTqx11F</a>
— Sjoerd Marijne (@SjoerdMarijne) <a href="https://twitter.com/SjoerdMarijne/status/1422070304252129284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Sjoerd Marijne brought up that his team was not particularly good at defending in the match.&nbsp;

"The defending was not good enough especially defending in the circle. So we focussed on that. It also helps keep your mind away from winning and losing," he said.

"It's all about the mindset. I told the girls that we have nothing to lose, so play free, and that's what we did today. It's like a dream come true. I think this is the Chak De India in reality," he added.&nbsp;

A video of Sjoerd Marijne is becoming a web sensation on the internet as he can be seen breaking down in tears as team India crushed Australia in the quarter-finals to arrive at the Olympics semi-finals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-winning-for-my-country-was-important-says-indian-badminton-star-pv-sindhu-on-her-olympics-bronze-402342" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze</a>

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Thank you chief, we love you. <a href="https://t.co/5kKLlmWpJG">pic.twitter.com/5kKLlmWpJG</a>
— Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) <a href="https://twitter.com/theprayagtiwari/status/1422077470308638722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Coming into the match, the chances were absolutely against India as in world no.2 Australia, a powerful unbeaten rival, anticipated them.&nbsp;

Yet, Team India made a statement, delivered a solid and bold execution to squeeze out the restricted win over the mighty Aussies. Gurjit Kaur adapted to the situation when it made a difference and changed over India's solitary penalty corner in the 22nd minute to astonish the Australians.&nbsp;

India's best display in the Olympics returned way in the 1980 Moscow Games where they completed fourth out of six teams. In the current edition of the Games, women's hockey made its introduction in the Olympics and the game was played in a robin-round format with the top two teams fitting the bill for the final.&nbsp;

Next up for Rani Rampal and her group is Argentina, who beat Germany 3-0 in the second quarterfinal match.

History was scripted when the hooter was blown for the last time on Monday during the Indian women's hockey team quarterfinal match against Australia concerning the first run through in the set of experiences the Indian women's team got an Olympic semifinal billet.

History was scripted when the hooter was blown for the last time on Monday during the Indian women's hockey team quarterfinal match against Australia concerning the first run through in the set of experiences the Indian women's team got an Olympic semifinal billet. Gurjit Kaur scored from a penalty corner in the second quarter was sufficient for India to progress to the detriment of three-time champions and world no.2 Australia. India put a tough execution all through the match and effectively guarded nine penalty corners in the match. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time "How my heart was? It's still working. I was like but that's in every match in the last three games," women's team coach Sjoerd Marijne said. "Oh man, what we've tried to do and what we have done is work match by match. What can we improve in the next one and the next one", he added. Sorry family , I coming again later 😊❤️ pic.twitter.com/h4uUTqx11F — Sjoerd Marijne (@SjoerdMarijne) August 2, 2021 × Sjoerd Marijne brought up that his team was not particularly good at defending in the match. "The defending was not good enough especially defending in the circle. So we focussed on that. It also helps keep your mind away from winning and losing," he said. "It's all about the mindset. I told the girls that we have nothing to lose, so play free, and that's what we did today. It's like a dream come true. I think this is the Chak De India in reality," he added. A video of Sjoerd Marijne is becoming a web sensation on the internet as he can be seen breaking down in tears as team India crushed Australia in the quarter-finals to arrive at the Olympics semi-finals. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze Thank you chief, we love you. pic.twitter.com/5kKLlmWpJG — Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) August 2, 2021 × Coming into the match, the chances were absolutely against India as in world no.2 Australia, a powerful unbeaten rival, anticipated them. Yet, Team India made a statement, delivered a solid and bold execution to squeeze out the restricted win over the mighty Aussies. Gurjit Kaur adapted to the situation when it made a difference and changed over India's solitary penalty corner in the 22nd minute to astonish the Australians. India's best display in the Olympics returned way in the 1980 Moscow Games where they completed fourth out of six teams. In the current edition of the Games, women's hockey made its introduction in the Olympics and the game was played in a robin-round format with the top two teams fitting the bill for the final. Next up for Rani Rampal and her group is Argentina, who beat Germany 3-0 in the second quarterfinal match.

Tokyo Olympics: 'I think this is the Chak de India in reality,' says Indian women's hockey coach

Former Indian hockey player Ashok Kumar wants the Men In Blue to bring the gold medal back to the country in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics.

The Asian side has not claimed a medal in the Summer Olympics since 1980 and the Manpreet Singh-led squad is looking to end the 41-year-old medal drought.

Carrying the hopes of an entire nation, the Indian men's hockey team lived up to the billing with a scintillating 3-1 win against Great Britain in the quarter-finals on Sunday.

Ashok, son of hockey wizard Dhyan Chand, said that the focus of the Manpreet Singh-led side will be on winning the next game against Belgium.

Hardik scored in the closing stages as India defeated Great Britain 3-1 to reach the semi-finals of the Tokyo Olympics. The team will face Belgium in the semis.

"I am very happy with the win and we were waiting for the side to script history. The way the Indian side has been playing in the recent past, be it Pro League matches or the ongoing Olympics, they will finish at the podium," Ashok told ANI.

"Semi-final is a deciding match for a medal and our team focus is on the next match and not on the summit clash," he added.

The World No.4 side, which kickstarted their Olympics campaign with a 3-2 win over New Zealand, went down against Australia (1-7) in their second match.

However, the Men in Blue staged a stunning comeback to win all the games before meeting Great Britain in the quarter-finals today.

"The team had a bad game where they were thrashed by Australia but the side came back and defeated Spain and Argentina, so things are going nicely with the side. The luck is with Team India right now," said Ashok.

Ashok was a part of the bronze medal-winning Indian side in the 1972 Olympics and he wants the Manpreet-led team to go for gold in the ongoing Games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-among-countries-with-highest-cash-rewards-for-tokyo-olympic-medalists-check-out-the-complete-list-402017" hreflang="en">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>

"When I started playing Hockey, I wanted to be an Olympian. I tried to create an impact at an individual level when I was playing for India. We won the bronze medal and I want to show that medal. This is the medal which I want the Indian team to convert into gold," said Ashok.

"I expect that in the upcoming semi-final the team will fulfill the dream of every Indian of seeing the Men In Blue on the podium in the Games," he added.

On Sunday, PV Sindhu became the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medals as she defeated China's He Bing Jiao in the bronze medal match.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-indian-womens-hockey-team-beat-australia-1-0-to-enter-semis-at-olympics-for-the-first-time-402319">Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time</a>

Sindhu defeated Bing Jiao 21-13, 21-15 in the bronze medal match that lasted for 52 minutes. Sindhu had earlier returned with a silver medal at the Rio Olympics 2016.

Hailing Sindhu for a remarkable feat, the former Indian hockey player said," I watched the game and Sindhu played confidently. With this bronze, she became the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medals.

"I had met her when she was just a child and I had never imagined that she will script history for India. PV Sindhu is an asset for India, she has come here after defeating big players in the world," Ashok signed off.&nbsp;

Former Indian hockey player Ashok Kumar wants the Men In Blue to bring the gold medal back to the country in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. The Asian side has not claimed a medal in the Summer Olympics since 1980 and the Manpreet Singh-led squad is looking to end the 41-year-old medal drought.

Former Indian hockey player Ashok Kumar wants the Men In Blue to bring the gold medal back to the country in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. The Asian side has not claimed a medal in the Summer Olympics since 1980 and the Manpreet Singh-led squad is looking to end the 41-year-old medal drought. Carrying the hopes of an entire nation, the Indian men's hockey team lived up to the billing with a scintillating 3-1 win against Great Britain in the quarter-finals on Sunday. Ashok, son of hockey wizard Dhyan Chand, said that the focus of the Manpreet Singh-led side will be on winning the next game against Belgium. Hardik scored in the closing stages as India defeated Great Britain 3-1 to reach the semi-finals of the Tokyo Olympics. The team will face Belgium in the semis. "I am very happy with the win and we were waiting for the side to script history. The way the Indian side has been playing in the recent past, be it Pro League matches or the ongoing Olympics, they will finish at the podium," Ashok told ANI. "Semi-final is a deciding match for a medal and our team focus is on the next match and not on the summit clash," he added. The World No.4 side, which kickstarted their Olympics campaign with a 3-2 win over New Zealand, went down against Australia (1-7) in their second match. However, the Men in Blue staged a stunning comeback to win all the games before meeting Great Britain in the quarter-finals today. "The team had a bad game where they were thrashed by Australia but the side came back and defeated Spain and Argentina, so things are going nicely with the side. The luck is with Team India right now," said Ashok. Ashok was a part of the bronze medal-winning Indian side in the 1972 Olympics and he wants the Manpreet-led team to go for gold in the ongoing Games. ALSO READ | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list "When I started playing Hockey, I wanted to be an Olympian. I tried to create an impact at an individual level when I was playing for India. We won the bronze medal and I want to show that medal. This is the medal which I want the Indian team to convert into gold," said Ashok. "I expect that in the upcoming semi-final the team will fulfill the dream of every Indian of seeing the Men In Blue on the podium in the Games," he added. On Sunday, PV Sindhu became the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medals as she defeated China's He Bing Jiao in the bronze medal match. ALSO READ | Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time Sindhu defeated Bing Jiao 21-13, 21-15 in the bronze medal match that lasted for 52 minutes. Sindhu had earlier returned with a silver medal at the Rio Olympics 2016. Hailing Sindhu for a remarkable feat, the former Indian hockey player said," I watched the game and Sindhu played confidently. With this bronze, she became the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medals. "I had met her when she was just a child and I had never imagined that she will script history for India. PV Sindhu is an asset for India, she has come here after defeating big players in the world," Ashok signed off.

Tokyo Olympics: The way India is playing, they will finish at podium, says hockey legend Ashok Kumar

Star shuttler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-i-had-to-close-off-my-emotions-says-pv-sindhu-after-bronze-medal-win-402308">PV Sindhu</a>, who ended her Tokyo Olympics campaign with an emphatic finish in badminton women singles event by bagging a coveted bronze medal, opened up about her journey at the Games. In an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-winning-for-my-country-was-important-says-indian-badminton-star-pv-sindhu-on-her-olympics-bronze-402342">exclusive chat with WION</a>, Sindhu&nbsp;spoke on a range of topics.&nbsp;

In the bronze-medal match, PV Sindhu defeated China's He Bing jiao 21-13, 21-15 to add a bronze to Rio 2016 silver. With the win, she became the first Indian woman athlete to win two individual Olympic medals, and second Indian after wrestler Sushil Kumar.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/olympics-as-pv-sindhu-wins-bronze-for-india-a-look-at-her-outstanding-journey-at-tokyo-2020-bronze-medal-402245">Olympics: As PV Sindhu wins bronze for India, a look at her outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020</a>

Amid the buzz over her extraordinary achievement, Sindhu has been making headlines for her plans&nbsp;of eating ice cream. Recently, her father PV Ramana spoke to ANI and apprised them of Sindhu's plans to eat ice cream with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Well, Sindhu said that it's not just ice cream, she wishes to do a lot more. "Not just ice cream, I want to do a lot more. I want to spend time with my family. Maybe go on a holiday. And just relax for a while," said Sindhu in an exclusive chat with WION's&nbsp;Digvijay Singh Deo.&nbsp;

Watch her exclusive interview here:

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The reference to ice cream came in limelight, as on July 13th, PM Modi had interacted with PV Sindhu and her parents virtually over preparation for Tokyo Olympics and asked them about the shuttler's diet. He also asked whether Sindhu was allowed to have what she wanted to eat including her favourite ice cream.&nbsp;

When Sindhu said that she has to control her diet, keeping in mind the preparation, PM Modi promised that he would eat ice cream with the athlete after her competition concluded.&nbsp;

Watch PM Modi's interaction with Sindhu and her parents:

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Being an athlete requires a rigorous schedule and hardwork. I asked <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pvsindhu1</a> about her love for ice-cream and also interacted with her parents. <a href="https://t.co/Hlapc8VJhp">pic.twitter.com/Hlapc8VJhp</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1414966949084209155?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Not just Sindhu, recently, India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, who won a silver medal at Tokyo Olympics, was heard in one of the media interviews that she wishes to eat pizza and that too 'a lot of it'.&nbsp;

Star shuttler PV Sindhu, who ended her Tokyo Olympics campaign with an emphatic finish in badminton women singles event by bagging a coveted bronze medal, opened up about her journey at the Games.

Star shuttler PV Sindhu, who ended her Tokyo Olympics campaign with an emphatic finish in badminton women singles event by bagging a coveted bronze medal, opened up about her journey at the Games. In an exclusive chat with WION, Sindhu spoke on a range of topics. In the bronze-medal match, PV Sindhu defeated China's He Bing jiao 21-13, 21-15 to add a bronze to Rio 2016 silver. With the win, she became the first Indian woman athlete to win two individual Olympic medals, and second Indian after wrestler Sushil Kumar. IN PICS | Olympics: As PV Sindhu wins bronze for India, a look at her outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020 Amid the buzz over her extraordinary achievement, Sindhu has been making headlines for her plans of eating ice cream. Recently, her father PV Ramana spoke to ANI and apprised them of Sindhu's plans to eat ice cream with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Well, Sindhu said that it's not just ice cream, she wishes to do a lot more. "Not just ice cream, I want to do a lot more. I want to spend time with my family. Maybe go on a holiday. And just relax for a while," said Sindhu in an exclusive chat with WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. Watch her exclusive interview here: × ALSO READ | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list The reference to ice cream came in limelight, as on July 13th, PM Modi had interacted with PV Sindhu and her parents virtually over preparation for Tokyo Olympics and asked them about the shuttler's diet. He also asked whether Sindhu was allowed to have what she wanted to eat including her favourite ice cream. When Sindhu said that she has to control her diet, keeping in mind the preparation, PM Modi promised that he would eat ice cream with the athlete after her competition concluded. Watch PM Modi's interaction with Sindhu and her parents: Being an athlete requires a rigorous schedule and hardwork. I asked @Pvsindhu1 about her love for ice-cream and also interacted with her parents. pic.twitter.com/Hlapc8VJhp — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 13, 2021 × Not just Sindhu, recently, India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, who won a silver medal at Tokyo Olympics, was heard in one of the media interviews that she wishes to eat pizza and that too 'a lot of it'.

'Not just ice cream...': PV Sindhu reveals other plans after winning bronze medal at Tokyo Olympics

Indian women's hockey team defeated Australia 1-0 in the quarter-final clash at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Monday (August 2). The team has booked a historic berth in the semi-finals as they will play semis for the first time at Olympics.&nbsp;

One goal from Gurjit Kaur, which she scored in the first half, gave an advantage to India as the team managed to maintain the lead. The Rani Rampal-led team will next play Argentina next.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-among-countries-with-highest-cash-rewards-for-tokyo-olympic-medalists-check-out-the-complete-list-402017" hreflang="en">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>

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HISTORY!!! OUR WOMEN'S <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOCKEY?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HOCKEY</a> TEAM HAS MADE THE SEMIS OF AN OLYMPICS FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER!!! 
 
It's that one goal from Gurjit Kaur that has been the highlight of the day!!! 
 
We play Argentina next !!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://t.co/lnouabnJ9B">pic.twitter.com/lnouabnJ9B</a>
— SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1422053264074317830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In what comes as a historic day and possibly the greatest moment for women's hockey in India, Gurjit Kaur scored the lone goal in the match during the first half through a penalty corner in a very tightly contested match.

The Indian players looked to give it their all as they ensured Gurjit's effort didn't go in vain.

The Australians threw it their all, but the Indian women refused to buckle even though the Aussies kept piling the pressure with each passing minute.

After rather a disappointing start in the Olympics campaign, as they began with losses against the Netherlands (5-1), Germany (2-0) and Great Britain 4-1), India then picked up the momentum and defeat Ireland (1-0) and South Africa (4-3) in back-to-back clashes in Pool A.

After that Great Britain crushed Ireland 2-0 in their last Group A clash that helped India to enter the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Indian women's hockey team defeated Australia 1-0 in the quarter-final clash at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Monday (August 2). The team has booked a historic berth in the semi-finals as they will play semis for the first time at Olympics.

Indian women's hockey team defeated Australia 1-0 in the quarter-final clash at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Monday (August 2). The team has booked a historic berth in the semi-finals as they will play semis for the first time at Olympics. One goal from Gurjit Kaur, which she scored in the first half, gave an advantage to India as the team managed to maintain the lead. The Rani Rampal-led team will next play Argentina next. ALSO READ | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list HISTORY!!! OUR WOMEN'S #HOCKEY TEAM HAS MADE THE SEMIS OF AN OLYMPICS FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER!!! It's that one goal from Gurjit Kaur that has been the highlight of the day!!! We play Argentina next !!!#Cheer4India pic.twitter.com/lnouabnJ9B — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 2, 2021 × In what comes as a historic day and possibly the greatest moment for women's hockey in India, Gurjit Kaur scored the lone goal in the match during the first half through a penalty corner in a very tightly contested match. The Indian players looked to give it their all as they ensured Gurjit's effort didn't go in vain. The Australians threw it their all, but the Indian women refused to buckle even though the Aussies kept piling the pressure with each passing minute. After rather a disappointing start in the Olympics campaign, as they began with losses against the Netherlands (5-1), Germany (2-0) and Great Britain 4-1), India then picked up the momentum and defeat Ireland (1-0) and South Africa (4-3) in back-to-back clashes in Pool A. After that Great Britain crushed Ireland 2-0 in their last Group A clash that helped India to enter the quarter-finals. (with inputs from agencies)

Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time

Badminton star PV Sindhu, who became the first Indian woman athlete to win two individual Olympic medals, spoke exclusively to WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. She said that winning the elusive medal for the country was important for her. In the third-place&nbsp;match, the 26-year-old dismissed China's He Bing jiao 21-13, 21-15 to add a bronze to Rio 2016 silver.

"I knew the difference between the third position and fourth position and winning a medal for the country was important for me," she said during the exclusive chat.&nbsp;

During her outstanding Tokyo run, apart from the semi-final against Tai Tzu Ying of Chinese Taipei, Sindhu performed consistently well as she didn't drop a single game in her five wins.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/olympics-as-pv-sindhu-wins-bronze-for-india-a-look-at-her-outstanding-journey-at-tokyo-2020-bronze-medal-402245">Olympics: As PV Sindhu wins bronze for India, a look at her outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020</a>

On her bronze-medal match, she said, "It makes me feel really happy. I had a lot of emotions going through me but my coach [Park Tae-Sang] motivated me. I told myself that need to get this medal for my country and need to play for myself."

Sindhu bagged the third medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics as she overcame the fighting abilities of China's Bing jiao to join Mirabai Chanu (silver) and Lovlina Borgohain (bronze medal assured) with an outstanding performance at the Musashino Forest Sport Plaza court 1.&nbsp;

Sindhu also praised the performance of women at the Tokyo Olympics, she said, "It's really good women are doing really well in sports. We should take a step forward and say we are strong. We should be able to face anyone."

Watch her exclusive interview here:

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On being asked, how her win will motivate others, Sindhu said, "The medal will motivate youngsters. A lot of people will take up the sport and work hard. Hard work is the key to success. And also you need to have passion. End of the day hard work brings success, you need to know what's your passion."

The ace shuttler also spoke about how the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic impacted her preparations as she said that the extra time helped her in honing her skills. She said, "During the COVID-19 pandemic, the government supported us and we got facilities. But during the gap, I utilised the time and worked on my skills and technique. Playing without the fans was not easy but I got used to it as I have been playing since January like this."&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Exclusive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Exclusive</a> | "Compare to 2016, this was very different. This time it was lot of pressure and responsibility. I am very thankful to my coach. My coach was dedicated to me every single day", says <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pvsindhu1</a> in a chat with <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PVSinduToWION?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PVSinduToWION</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PVSindhu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PVSindhu</a> <a href="https://t.co/UpqMP7D935">pic.twitter.com/UpqMP7D935</a>
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PV Sindhu shared words of encouragement&nbsp;to other athletes at Tokyo Olympics as she asked them to "take positives and don't be disheartened".&nbsp;

Finally, on the famous ice cream joke, she said, "Not just ice cream, I want to do a lot more. I want to spend time with my family. Maybe go on a holiday. And just relax for a while."

Badminton star PV Sindhu, who became the first Indian woman athlete to win two individual Olympic medals, spoke exclusively to WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. She said that winning the elusive medal for the country was important for her.

Badminton star PV Sindhu, who became the first Indian woman athlete to win two individual Olympic medals, spoke exclusively to WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. She said that winning the elusive medal for the country was important for her. In the third-place match, the 26-year-old dismissed China's He Bing jiao 21-13, 21-15 to add a bronze to Rio 2016 silver. "I knew the difference between the third position and fourth position and winning a medal for the country was important for me," she said during the exclusive chat. During her outstanding Tokyo run, apart from the semi-final against Tai Tzu Ying of Chinese Taipei, Sindhu performed consistently well as she didn't drop a single game in her five wins. IN PICS | Olympics: As PV Sindhu wins bronze for India, a look at her outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020 On her bronze-medal match, she said, "It makes me feel really happy. I had a lot of emotions going through me but my coach [Park Tae-Sang] motivated me. I told myself that need to get this medal for my country and need to play for myself." Sindhu bagged the third medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics as she overcame the fighting abilities of China's Bing jiao to join Mirabai Chanu (silver) and Lovlina Borgohain (bronze medal assured) with an outstanding performance at the Musashino Forest Sport Plaza court 1. Sindhu also praised the performance of women at the Tokyo Olympics, she said, "It's really good women are doing really well in sports. We should take a step forward and say we are strong. We should be able to face anyone." Watch her exclusive interview here: × ALSO READ | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list On being asked, how her win will motivate others, Sindhu said, "The medal will motivate youngsters. A lot of people will take up the sport and work hard. Hard work is the key to success. And also you need to have passion. End of the day hard work brings success, you need to know what's your passion." The ace shuttler also spoke about how the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic impacted her preparations as she said that the extra time helped her in honing her skills. She said, "During the COVID-19 pandemic, the government supported us and we got facilities. But during the gap, I utilised the time and worked on my skills and technique. Playing without the fans was not easy but I got used to it as I have been playing since January like this." #Exclusive | "Compare to 2016, this was very different. This time it was lot of pressure and responsibility. I am very thankful to my coach. My coach was dedicated to me every single day", says @Pvsindhu1 in a chat with @DiggySinghDeo #Tokyo2020 #PVSinduToWION #PVSindhu pic.twitter.com/UpqMP7D935 — WION (@WIONews) August 2, 2021 × PV Sindhu shared words of encouragement to other athletes at Tokyo Olympics as she asked them to "take positives and don't be disheartened". Finally, on the famous ice cream joke, she said, "Not just ice cream, I want to do a lot more. I want to spend time with my family. Maybe go on a holiday. And just relax for a while."

EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze

Australia reached the semi-finals of the men's hockey tournament after beating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout in sizzling conditions at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics, joining Germany who booked a quarter-final victory over Argentina.

A powerful performance by goalkeeper Andrew Charter, who kept a clean sheet in the shootouts - won 3-0 by Australia after the score was 2-2 at the end of regular playing time - helped the Kookaburras win the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-satish-kumar-crashes-out-after-losing-to-bakhodir-jalolov-in-mens-boxing-quarterfinals-402125" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Satish Kumar crashes out after losing to Bakhodir Jalolov in men's boxing quarterfinals</a>

"It's bloody amazing," said Charter. "To come out here and carry the burden for a bit, it's good for my confidence and it's good for the team defensively moving forward."

The Australians had pulled ahead twice in the game, thanks to two goals by Tom Wickham, only to see the hard-fighting Dutch side equalise through goals by Mink van der Weerden and Jeroen Hertzberger.

Dutch goalie Pirmin Blaak recognised Charter's role in the shootouts.

"Charter saved a few and it was hard to get pressure on the Aussies," he said.

"I think if you miss three (penalty shots) and they score three, they deserve to win."

The result meant the Dutch men's squad won't play the semi-finals of the Olympic hockey tournament for the first time since 1984.

<h2>GERMAN WIN</h2>

Australia will face Germany on Tuesday after the Germans secured an easy victory over Olympic champions Argentina.

Germany opened the score in the 19th minute when defender Lukas Windfeder shot a penalty corner low and hard at the left side of the goal, leaving Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi no chance to stop the ball.

Ten minutes into the second half, the German side added to their advantage after scoring through another penalty corner, which gave them little left to fear from the Argentineans.

"It's hot weather and hot-minded Argentina and we just want to keep it cool and play our German style and I think we did exactly that," said forward Christopher Ruhr.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-india-to-face-australia-in-the-womens-hockey-quarter-finals-402113" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: India to face Australia in the women's hockey quarter-finals</a>

The fourth quarter saw one goal from each side, including Windfeder's second, leaving the final score at 3-1.

Officials doubled the usual two-minute breaks between quarters to allow players to cool down from the heat at the main pitch of the Oi Hockey Stadium, which was sprayed with water during the half-time break to keep play fast and smooth.

The win gave Germany revenge on Argentina after being knocked out by them in the semi-finals of the 2016 Rio&nbsp;Olympics, when the Germans had to settle for bronze.

Australia reached the semi-finals of the men's hockey tournament after beating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout in sizzling conditions at the Tokyo Olympics, joining Germany who booked a quarter-final victory over Argentina.

Australia reached the semi-finals of the men's hockey tournament after beating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout in sizzling conditions at the Tokyo Olympics, joining Germany who booked a quarter-final victory over Argentina. A powerful performance by goalkeeper Andrew Charter, who kept a clean sheet in the shootouts - won 3-0 by Australia after the score was 2-2 at the end of regular playing time - helped the Kookaburras win the match. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Satish Kumar crashes out after losing to Bakhodir Jalolov in men's boxing quarterfinals "It's bloody amazing," said Charter. "To come out here and carry the burden for a bit, it's good for my confidence and it's good for the team defensively moving forward." The Australians had pulled ahead twice in the game, thanks to two goals by Tom Wickham, only to see the hard-fighting Dutch side equalise through goals by Mink van der Weerden and Jeroen Hertzberger. Dutch goalie Pirmin Blaak recognised Charter's role in the shootouts. "Charter saved a few and it was hard to get pressure on the Aussies," he said. "I think if you miss three (penalty shots) and they score three, they deserve to win." The result meant the Dutch men's squad won't play the semi-finals of the Olympic hockey tournament for the first time since 1984. GERMAN WIN Australia will face Germany on Tuesday after the Germans secured an easy victory over Olympic champions Argentina. Germany opened the score in the 19th minute when defender Lukas Windfeder shot a penalty corner low and hard at the left side of the goal, leaving Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi no chance to stop the ball. Ten minutes into the second half, the German side added to their advantage after scoring through another penalty corner, which gave them little left to fear from the Argentineans. "It's hot weather and hot-minded Argentina and we just want to keep it cool and play our German style and I think we did exactly that," said forward Christopher Ruhr. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: India to face Australia in the women's hockey quarter-finals The fourth quarter saw one goal from each side, including Windfeder's second, leaving the final score at 3-1. Officials doubled the usual two-minute breaks between quarters to allow players to cool down from the heat at the main pitch of the Oi Hockey Stadium, which was sprayed with water during the half-time break to keep play fast and smooth. The win gave Germany revenge on Argentina after being knocked out by them in the semi-finals of the 2016 Rio Olympics, when the Germans had to settle for bronze.

Tokyo 2020: Australia to face Germany in men's Hockey semis, Argentina, Netherlands bow out

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

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

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

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

The organisers of Tokyo Olympics 2020 are probing an incident related to athletes that were found "drinking alcohol" in the Olympic village. The incident is now been attended to by the police too. In a press conference, the CEO of Tokyo 2020 Toshiro Muto said that the athletes were caught drinking in a park in the athletes' village on Friday night.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-2020-us-swimmer-caeleb-dressel-joins-olympic-pantheon-with-five-golds-in-tokyo-402128">&nbsp;Olympics 2020: US swimmer Caeleb Dressel joins Olympic pantheon with five golds in Tokyo</a>

During the presser, Muto said, "At the night of July 31 (later corrected to the night of July 30) multiple athletes and members of the delegation were at the park within the village and they were drinking alcohol."

He further added, "We are aware of this fact. Currently we are investigating the situation and based on the result we are to take appropriate action."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-australias-emma-mckeon-becomes-first-female-swimmer-to-win-7-medals-at-single-games-402137">Tokyo Olympics: Australia's Emma McKeon becomes first female swimmer to win 7 medals at single Games</a>

Muto also informed that the police were also there but it is still unclear that what action took. However, he refrained from giving out details about the names and number of athletes present at the scene.&nbsp;

As a precaution against the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the organisers said athletes were permitted to drink alcohol only in their rooms and only if they are alone. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the Games have been affected as the events are taking place in Tokyo without spectators and athletes and Olympic visitors have remained in a "bubble" with regular testing for the virus.&nbsp;

The organisers of Tokyo Olympics 2020 are probing an incident related to athletes that were found "drinking alcohol" in the Olympic village. The incident is now been attended to by the police too.

The organisers of Tokyo Olympics 2020 are probing an incident related to athletes that were found "drinking alcohol" in the Olympic village. The incident is now been attended to by the police too. In a press conference, the CEO of Tokyo 2020 Toshiro Muto said that the athletes were caught drinking in a park in the athletes' village on Friday night. ALSO READ | Olympics 2020: US swimmer Caeleb Dressel joins Olympic pantheon with five golds in Tokyo During the presser, Muto said, "At the night of July 31 (later corrected to the night of July 30) multiple athletes and members of the delegation were at the park within the village and they were drinking alcohol." He further added, "We are aware of this fact. Currently we are investigating the situation and based on the result we are to take appropriate action." ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: Australia's Emma McKeon becomes first female swimmer to win 7 medals at single Games Muto also informed that the police were also there but it is still unclear that what action took. However, he refrained from giving out details about the names and number of athletes present at the scene. As a precaution against the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the organisers said athletes were permitted to drink alcohol only in their rooms and only if they are alone. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the Games have been affected as the events are taking place in Tokyo without spectators and athletes and Olympic visitors have remained in a "bubble" with regular testing for the virus.

Tokyo 2020: Police investigate as athletes involved in 'drinking incident' in Olympic Village

Australia's&nbsp;Emma&nbsp;McKeon&nbsp;experienced pride and disbelief in equal measures after winning two more golds at the Tokyo Games on Sunday as she became the first female swimmer to win seven medals at a single Olympics.

The 27-year-old from Wollongong, New South Wales set an Olympic record to win the 50m freestyle in 23.81 seconds, completing the Tokyo sprint double after her victory in the 100.

Half an hour later she was back in the pool to win gold again, this time as part of Australia's 4x100 medley relay team.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-india-to-face-australia-in-the-womens-hockey-quarter-finals-402113" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: India to face Australia in the women's hockey quarter-finals</a>

McKeon&nbsp;delivered a strong butterfly leg before Cate Campbell sprinted home for gold.

"It still feels pretty surreal. I never thought I would win two golds in one session ... I’m very proud of myself,"&nbsp;McKeon&nbsp;said.

Soaking up the outpouring of support from her team in Australia and fans back home,&nbsp;McKeon&nbsp;said she "grew up watching the swimming and watching amazing athletes do amazing things in Australia.

"I grew up wanting to do a similar same thing and so I was literally the same kid as these children are."

McKeon&nbsp;won four gold medals in Tokyo, playing a big part in Australia's haul of nine, and she joins Michael Phelps, Mark Spitz and Matt Biondi as the only swimmers with seven medals at a Games. Phelps won a record eight in Athens and Beijing.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-2020-us-swimmer-caeleb-dressel-joins-olympic-pantheon-with-five-golds-in-tokyo-402128">&nbsp;Olympics 2020: US swimmer Caeleb Dressel joins Olympic pantheon with five golds in Tokyo</a>

Russian gymnast Maria Gorokhovskaya, in 1952, is the only woman to have won seven in any other sport.

"That’s also very surreal," said&nbsp;McKeon, whose father and brother both swam at Olympics.

McKeon&nbsp;had broken the Olympic record in the 50m heats in a time of 24.02 seconds, again in the semis with 24.00 and steamrolled through the final to set a new mark on Sunday.

"Growing up in sport, it is a pretty cool thing to be a part of. If you work hard and enjoy what you are doing and go after your dreams anything is possible," she said.

Campbell was delighted for her team mate.

“I would just like to say full credit to&nbsp;Emma&nbsp;... I think that we just need to acknowledge what an incredible job she has done,” she told Channel 7 after the relay win.

“And I honestly could not be happier for her. And ... she is such an important part of this team and I think that needs to be recognised.”

Australia's Emma McKeon experienced pride and disbelief in equal measures after winning two more golds at the Tokyo Games on Sunday as she became the first female swimmer to win seven medals at a single Olympics.

Australia's Emma McKeon experienced pride and disbelief in equal measures after winning two more golds at the Tokyo Games on Sunday as she became the first female swimmer to win seven medals at a single Olympics. The 27-year-old from Wollongong, New South Wales set an Olympic record to win the 50m freestyle in 23.81 seconds, completing the Tokyo sprint double after her victory in the 100. Half an hour later she was back in the pool to win gold again, this time as part of Australia's 4x100 medley relay team. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: India to face Australia in the women's hockey quarter-finals McKeon delivered a strong butterfly leg before Cate Campbell sprinted home for gold. "It still feels pretty surreal. I never thought I would win two golds in one session ... I’m very proud of myself," McKeon said. Soaking up the outpouring of support from her team in Australia and fans back home, McKeon said she "grew up watching the swimming and watching amazing athletes do amazing things in Australia. "I grew up wanting to do a similar same thing and so I was literally the same kid as these children are." McKeon won four gold medals in Tokyo, playing a big part in Australia's haul of nine, and she joins Michael Phelps, Mark Spitz and Matt Biondi as the only swimmers with seven medals at a Games. Phelps won a record eight in Athens and Beijing. ALSO READ | Olympics 2020: US swimmer Caeleb Dressel joins Olympic pantheon with five golds in Tokyo Russian gymnast Maria Gorokhovskaya, in 1952, is the only woman to have won seven in any other sport. "That’s also very surreal," said McKeon, whose father and brother both swam at Olympics. McKeon had broken the Olympic record in the 50m heats in a time of 24.02 seconds, again in the semis with 24.00 and steamrolled through the final to set a new mark on Sunday. "Growing up in sport, it is a pretty cool thing to be a part of. If you work hard and enjoy what you are doing and go after your dreams anything is possible," she said. Campbell was delighted for her team mate. “I would just like to say full credit to Emma ... I think that we just need to acknowledge what an incredible job she has done,” she told Channel 7 after the relay win. “And I honestly could not be happier for her. And ... she is such an important part of this team and I think that needs to be recognised.”

Tokyo Olympics: Australia's Emma McKeon becomes first female swimmer to win 7 medals at single Games

Pablo Carreno Busta beat World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the men's singles bronze medal match at the Tokyo Olympics. That gave Carreno Busta his first Olympic award.

Throughout the match, Pablo Carreno Busta possessed a strong forehand against Novak Djokovic, who looked depleted from his elimination round loss to Alexander Zverev.&nbsp;

He even held a match point on Novak Djokovic's serve during the second-set sudden tiebreaker, yet World no.1 showed a lot of flexibility to save it before in the long run winning the tiebreaker 8-6. He also went on to win the deciding set. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;Tokyo Olympics: India's star badminton player PV Sindhu to face He Bingjiao in bronze medal match

Addressing the Spanish press later, Pablo Carreno Busta communicated amusement at his presentation in the bronze medal match, considering it the greatest accomplishment of his life. He likewise expressed gratitude towards his fans for propelling him to come back from his elimination round loss to Karen Khachanov.&nbsp;

"I think this my biggest achievement. It's incredible," he said.

"After yesterday's loss I felt people's love and&nbsp;support and I had to give my all. I've been able to overcome losing the second set thanks to all the support. It's just bronze but I gave my all," he added.

Carreno Busta pondered the mid-match stagger, asserting that he thought he was done after Novak Djokovic took the subsequent set. He added that it was incredible that he could stick it out in the circumstance and get back an Olympic medal.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep

"I'm in a cloud. After losing 2nd set I thought it was over. Winning over the World No. 1 is very tough. After losing the second set I thought I'd not be able to do it. But I was! It's incredible." he said.

“It’s a bronze medal, but for me it’s like a gold. I haven’t won the tournament, but it’s the best title of my career,” he added.

"I came here for a medal, it's been tough but I've got it! For my girlfriend, my mother, Gijón, Spain," he concluded.

Pablo Carreno Busta beat World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the men's singles bronze medal match at the Tokyo Olympics. That gave Carreno Busta his first Olympic award.

Pablo Carreno Busta beat World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the men's singles bronze medal match at the Tokyo Olympics. That gave Carreno Busta his first Olympic award. Throughout the match, Pablo Carreno Busta possessed a strong forehand against Novak Djokovic, who looked depleted from his elimination round loss to Alexander Zverev. He even held a match point on Novak Djokovic's serve during the second-set sudden tiebreaker, yet World no.1 showed a lot of flexibility to save it before in the long run winning the tiebreaker 8-6. He also went on to win the deciding set. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: India's star badminton player PV Sindhu to face He Bingjiao in bronze medal match Addressing the Spanish press later, Pablo Carreno Busta communicated amusement at his presentation in the bronze medal match, considering it the greatest accomplishment of his life. He likewise expressed gratitude towards his fans for propelling him to come back from his elimination round loss to Karen Khachanov. "I think this my biggest achievement. It's incredible," he said. "After yesterday's loss I felt people's love and support and I had to give my all. I've been able to overcome losing the second set thanks to all the support. It's just bronze but I gave my all," he added. Carreno Busta pondered the mid-match stagger, asserting that he thought he was done after Novak Djokovic took the subsequent set. He added that it was incredible that he could stick it out in the circumstance and get back an Olympic medal. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep "I'm in a cloud. After losing 2nd set I thought it was over. Winning over the World No. 1 is very tough. After losing the second set I thought I'd not be able to do it. But I was! It's incredible." he said. “It’s a bronze medal, but for me it’s like a gold. I haven’t won the tournament, but it’s the best title of my career,” he added. "I came here for a medal, it's been tough but I've got it! For my girlfriend, my mother, Gijón, Spain," he concluded.

Tokyo Olympics: ‘It is a bronze medal, but it feels like gold,' says Pablo Carreno Busta

At the medal ceremony for the badminton men’s doubles Saturday, the winning players watched a flag being raised, but it was not their own. They sang as a song reverberated in the mostly empty venue, but it was not their anthem.

For decades, politics has been getting in the way of Olympic glory for Taiwan, a self-governing democracy that China claims as its territory. Rather than using its formal name, the Republic of China, or even Taiwan, the island competes in international sporting events as Chinese Taipei, under a resolution passed by the International Olympic Committee. The terms prohibit the use of any symbols suggesting that Taiwan is a sovereign nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-another-medal-for-india-pv-sindhu-batters-chinas-he-to-win-bronze-402223">Olympics: Another medal for India, PV Sindhu batters China's He to win bronze</a>

On Saturday, Taiwanese badminton duo Lee Yang and Wang Chi-lin prevailed over Liu Yuchen and Li Junhui of China, winning Taiwan’s first gold medal in the sport. In accordance with regulations, their victory was marked by the raising of the flag it uses at the Olympics, a white banner featuring a plum blossom motif and Olympic rings, and the playing of a song known as its flag anthem, commonly used at international sporting events it attends. ​​

Tensions between the two sides had been raised even before the final, with both Lee and Wang emphasising their Taiwanese identity on social media. In a Facebook post afterward, Lee said his gold medal was "dedicated to my country, Taiwan."

Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan’s president, also congratulated the players for "winning our country’s first gold medal in badminton."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/olympics-as-pv-sindhu-wins-bronze-for-india-a-look-at-her-outstanding-journey-at-tokyo-2020-bronze-medal-402245">IN PICS: A look at PV Sindhu's outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020</a>

Badminton is one of the Olympic sports traditionally dominated by China, where the state-run sports system is designed to maximise the number of gold medals in part by focusing on less-prominent sports.

Taiwan’s badminton victory has drawn some anger on Weibo, a popular social media platform in China, as well as comments from users congratulating China on a victory that, like Taiwan itself, they see as belonging to Beijing. Others accused the badminton players of advocating Taiwanese independence and criticized them as ungrateful.

“You can participate in The Games because there’s ‘Chinese Taipei’ on your shirts,” wrote one Weibo user who said the Taiwanese players’ allusions to national sovereignty left him speechless.

Similar nationalist attacks have focused on athletes from Hong Kong, a Chinese territory that fields its own Olympic team.

Social media users in Taiwan have responded with memes depicting a badminton court as the island’s new national flag.

The results were reversed in the women’s singles final Sunday night when Chen Yufei of China defeated the top-ranked Tai Tzu-ying of Taiwan. Before the match, many Weibo users in China had already accused Tai of being pro-independence, citing past remarks lamenting her inability to hold Taiwan’s flag at international competitions.

“We can lose to anyone but Taiwanese and Hong Kongese independentists,” one user wrote.

At the medal ceremony for the badminton men’s doubles Saturday, the winning players watched a flag being raised, but it was not their own. They sang as a song reverberated in the mostly empty venue, but it was not their anthem.

At the medal ceremony for the badminton men’s doubles Saturday, the winning players watched a flag being raised, but it was not their own. They sang as a song reverberated in the mostly empty venue, but it was not their anthem. For decades, politics has been getting in the way of Olympic glory for Taiwan, a self-governing democracy that China claims as its territory. Rather than using its formal name, the Republic of China, or even Taiwan, the island competes in international sporting events as Chinese Taipei, under a resolution passed by the International Olympic Committee. The terms prohibit the use of any symbols suggesting that Taiwan is a sovereign nation. Also read | Olympics: Another medal for India, PV Sindhu batters China's He to win bronze On Saturday, Taiwanese badminton duo Lee Yang and Wang Chi-lin prevailed over Liu Yuchen and Li Junhui of China, winning Taiwan’s first gold medal in the sport. In accordance with regulations, their victory was marked by the raising of the flag it uses at the Olympics, a white banner featuring a plum blossom motif and Olympic rings, and the playing of a song known as its flag anthem, commonly used at international sporting events it attends. Tensions between the two sides had been raised even before the final, with both Lee and Wang emphasising their Taiwanese identity on social media. In a Facebook post afterward, Lee said his gold medal was "dedicated to my country, Taiwan." Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan’s president, also congratulated the players for "winning our country’s first gold medal in badminton." IN PICS: A look at PV Sindhu's outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020 Badminton is one of the Olympic sports traditionally dominated by China, where the state-run sports system is designed to maximise the number of gold medals in part by focusing on less-prominent sports. Taiwan’s badminton victory has drawn some anger on Weibo, a popular social media platform in China, as well as comments from users congratulating China on a victory that, like Taiwan itself, they see as belonging to Beijing. Others accused the badminton players of advocating Taiwanese independence and criticized them as ungrateful. “You can participate in The Games because there’s ‘Chinese Taipei’ on your shirts,” wrote one Weibo user who said the Taiwanese players’ allusions to national sovereignty left him speechless. Similar nationalist attacks have focused on athletes from Hong Kong, a Chinese territory that fields its own Olympic team. Social media users in Taiwan have responded with memes depicting a badminton court as the island’s new national flag. The results were reversed in the women’s singles final Sunday night when Chen Yufei of China defeated the top-ranked Tai Tzu-ying of Taiwan. Before the match, many Weibo users in China had already accused Tai of being pro-independence, citing past remarks lamenting her inability to hold Taiwan’s flag at international competitions. “We can lose to anyone but Taiwanese and Hong Kongese independentists,” one user wrote.

Taiwan’s gold medal win over China in badminton raises tensions

The American star won his fifth gold medal of the Tokyo Games, finishing off one of the great performances in Olympic history. He joins an elite club of just four other swimmers ever with at least five gold medals at one games.

Caeleb&nbsp;Dressel swam the butterfly leg as the Americans set a world record in the 4x100-meter medley relay with a time of 3 minutes, 26.78 seconds—eclipsing the mark of 3:27.28 they set at the 2009 Rome world championships in rubberized suits.

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Ryan Murphy, Michael Andrew, and Zach Apple joined Dressel on the winning team, ensuring the Americans closed out the swimming competition with another gold in a race they’ve never lost at the Olympics.

Earlier in the session, Dressel won the 50 freestyle for his third individual title of the games. He also won two golds on the relays.

Dressel starred at the pool with Australia’s Emma McKeon, who won two more golds Sunday to push her overall total to seven — four gold and three bronze.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-australia-deserved-mixed-doubles-bronze-says-ashleigh-barty-402106" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Australia deserved mixed doubles bronze, says Ashleigh Barty</a>

Mirroring Dressel’s final day, McKeon won the 50 free and took the butterfly leg on the Aussies’ winning 4x100 medley relay team on the women’s side.

McKeon became the first female swimmer to win seven medals at a single games. The only men to do it are Michael Phelps, Mark Spitz and Matt Biondi.

The American star won his fifth gold medal of the Tokyo Games, finishing off one of the great performances in Olympic history. He joins an elite club of just four other swimmers ever with at least five gold medals at one games.

The American star won his fifth gold medal of the Tokyo Games, finishing off one of the great performances in Olympic history. He joins an elite club of just four other swimmers ever with at least five gold medals at one games. Caeleb Dressel swam the butterfly leg as the Americans set a world record in the 4x100-meter medley relay with a time of 3 minutes, 26.78 seconds—eclipsing the mark of 3:27.28 they set at the 2009 Rome world championships in rubberized suits. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: India to face Australia in the women's hockey quarter-finals Ryan Murphy, Michael Andrew, and Zach Apple joined Dressel on the winning team, ensuring the Americans closed out the swimming competition with another gold in a race they’ve never lost at the Olympics. Earlier in the session, Dressel won the 50 freestyle for his third individual title of the games. He also won two golds on the relays. Dressel starred at the pool with Australia’s Emma McKeon, who won two more golds Sunday to push her overall total to seven — four gold and three bronze. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Australia deserved mixed doubles bronze, says Ashleigh Barty Mirroring Dressel’s final day, McKeon won the 50 free and took the butterfly leg on the Aussies’ winning 4x100 medley relay team on the women’s side. McKeon became the first female swimmer to win seven medals at a single games. The only men to do it are Michael Phelps, Mark Spitz and Matt Biondi.

Olympics 2020: US swimmer Caeleb Dressel joins Olympic pantheon with five golds in Tokyo

Satish Kumar was the last male boxer in contention at Olympics 2021. He lost to Bakhodir Jalolov, which means the men's boxing contingent will return with nothing for the third sequential time.&nbsp;

Vijender Singh's bronze in the 2008 Olympics was the final remaining one from a male boxer. Mary Kom won a bronze in the 2012 London Games. Also, Lovlina Borgohain has guaranteed herself of a bronze medal at Tokyo 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Olympics: Tokyo daily COVID-19 infections hit record high">Olympics: Tokyo daily COVID-19 infections hit record high</a>

Satish Kumar knew that getting a success against the World No 1 would require a stupendous exertion and he capitulated to the pressing factor eventually. All five appointed judges granted the bout 30-27 to Bakhodir Jalolov.&nbsp;

The first round was firmly challenged with both Bakhodir Jalolov and Satish Satish handling some spotless punches on the face. Nevertheless, Bakhodir had a higher achievement rate and commanded the notice of all five appointed judges.&nbsp;

The second round was an uneven challenge with Bakhodir interfacing with his pokes constantly. Satish attempted to go on the front foot yet he let his gatekeeper down all the while.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-tennis-belinda-bencic-beats-czech-vondrousova-to-win-womens-singles-gold-402047" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics tennis: Belinda Bencic beats Czech Vondrousova to win women's singles gold</a>

Satish attempted to go for the knockout in the third round yet the more prominent reach of Bakhodir made it inconceivable for the Indian to associate one punch. Toward the day's end, it was a simple choice for the adjudicators.&nbsp;

Bakhodir looked the top choice in the men's super heavyweight classification and is far superior to the remainder of the pack. It stays not yet clear on the off chance that he can get the gold medal.&nbsp;

Indian boxer Satish Kumar lost by a consistent ruling against Bakhodir Jalolov of Uzbekistan in the men's Super Heavy (+91kg) classification quarterfinal.&nbsp;

Satish Kumar was the last male boxer in contention at Olympics 2021. He lost to Bakhodir Jalolov, which means the men's boxing contingent will return with nothing for the third sequential time.

Satish Kumar was the last male boxer in contention at Olympics 2021. He lost to Bakhodir Jalolov, which means the men's boxing contingent will return with nothing for the third sequential time. Vijender Singh's bronze in the 2008 Olympics was the final remaining one from a male boxer. Mary Kom won a bronze in the 2012 London Games. Also, Lovlina Borgohain has guaranteed herself of a bronze medal at Tokyo 2020. ALSO READ: Olympics: Tokyo daily COVID-19 infections hit record high Satish Kumar knew that getting a success against the World No 1 would require a stupendous exertion and he capitulated to the pressing factor eventually. All five appointed judges granted the bout 30-27 to Bakhodir Jalolov. The first round was firmly challenged with both Bakhodir Jalolov and Satish Satish handling some spotless punches on the face. Nevertheless, Bakhodir had a higher achievement rate and commanded the notice of all five appointed judges. The second round was an uneven challenge with Bakhodir interfacing with his pokes constantly. Satish attempted to go on the front foot yet he let his gatekeeper down all the while. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics tennis: Belinda Bencic beats Czech Vondrousova to win women's singles gold Satish attempted to go for the knockout in the third round yet the more prominent reach of Bakhodir made it inconceivable for the Indian to associate one punch. Toward the day's end, it was a simple choice for the adjudicators. Bakhodir looked the top choice in the men's super heavyweight classification and is far superior to the remainder of the pack. It stays not yet clear on the off chance that he can get the gold medal. Indian boxer Satish Kumar lost by a consistent ruling against Bakhodir Jalolov of Uzbekistan in the men's Super Heavy (+91kg) classification quarterfinal.

Tokyo 2020: Satish Kumar crashes out after losing to Bakhodir Jalolov in men's boxing quarterfinals

Belarusian athlete Kristina Timanovskaya said Sunday she was "safe" and under police protection in Japan after claiming her country had forced her to leave the Tokyo Olympics.

"I am safe and they are in the process of deciding where I am going to spend the night," Timanovskaya said in a statement on Telegram published by the Belarusian Sport Solidarity Foundation (BSSF), an organisation that supports opposition athletes.

The 24-year-old said team officials had tried to remove her from Japan after she criticised Belarus's athletics federation for entering her into a &nbsp;relay race in Tokyo without giving her notice.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-another-medal-for-india-pv-sindhu-batters-chinas-he-to-win-bronze-402223" hreflang="en">Olympics: Another medal for India, PV Sindhu batters China's He to win bronze</a>

"It turns out our great bosses as always decided everything for us," she had said on her Instagram stories that are no longer available.

Tsimanouskaya later said in a separate Instagram post that she wouldn't have "reacted so harshly if I had been told in advance, explained the whole situation and asked if I was able to run 400 metres."

"But they decided to do everything behind my back," she added.

The BSSF said Belarus officials had tried to "deport" Timanovskaya.

The group said earlier that the sprinter, who had been due to compete in the women's 200 metres heats in the Olympic Stadium on Monday, was at a Tokyo airport with Belarusian team officials and posted a video in which the athlete appealed to the International Olympic Committee.

"I am under pressure and they are trying to take me out of the country without my consent. I ask the International Olympic Committee to interfere," Timanovskaya said in the video.

Later opposition group issued the statement confirming she was safe.

The Belarusian Olympic Committee had claimed that Timanovskaya left the Tokyo Games on medical advice because of her "emotional and psychological state".

But, speaking through the BSSF, Timanovskaya said that claim was "not true" and said she had not been examined by doctors.

The IOC said in a statement to AFP: "The IOC has seen the reports in the media, is looking into the situation and has asked the NOC (Belarus Olympic officials) for clarification."&nbsp;

BSSF was founded last August by retired Belarusian swimmer Aliaksandra Herasimenia, as protests erupted after the disputed re-election of strongman President Alexander Lukashenko.

Herasimenia -- who now lives in exile in Lithuania -- sold her 2012 world championship gold medal to raise funds for the foundation.

It provides financial and legal assistance to athletes targeted by the authorities after calling for an end to the violent police crackdown on demonstrators.

The turmoil has led to Belarus being stripped of hosting this year's ice hockey world championship and a ban on Lukashenko attending Olympic events.

Belarusian athlete Kristina Timanovskaya said Sunday she was "safe" and under police protection in Japan after claiming her country had forced her to leave the Tokyo Olympics.

Belarusian athlete Kristina Timanovskaya said Sunday she was "safe" and under police protection in Japan after claiming her country had forced her to leave the Tokyo Olympics. "I am safe and they are in the process of deciding where I am going to spend the night," Timanovskaya said in a statement on Telegram published by the Belarusian Sport Solidarity Foundation (BSSF), an organisation that supports opposition athletes. The 24-year-old said team officials had tried to remove her from Japan after she criticised Belarus's athletics federation for entering her into a relay race in Tokyo without giving her notice. Also read | Olympics: Another medal for India, PV Sindhu batters China's He to win bronze "It turns out our great bosses as always decided everything for us," she had said on her Instagram stories that are no longer available. Tsimanouskaya later said in a separate Instagram post that she wouldn't have "reacted so harshly if I had been told in advance, explained the whole situation and asked if I was able to run 400 metres." "But they decided to do everything behind my back," she added. The BSSF said Belarus officials had tried to "deport" Timanovskaya. The group said earlier that the sprinter, who had been due to compete in the women's 200 metres heats in the Olympic Stadium on Monday, was at a Tokyo airport with Belarusian team officials and posted a video in which the athlete appealed to the International Olympic Committee. "I am under pressure and they are trying to take me out of the country without my consent. I ask the International Olympic Committee to interfere," Timanovskaya said in the video. Later opposition group issued the statement confirming she was safe. The Belarusian Olympic Committee had claimed that Timanovskaya left the Tokyo Games on medical advice because of her "emotional and psychological state". But, speaking through the BSSF, Timanovskaya said that claim was "not true" and said she had not been examined by doctors. The IOC said in a statement to AFP: "The IOC has seen the reports in the media, is looking into the situation and has asked the NOC (Belarus Olympic officials) for clarification." BSSF was founded last August by retired Belarusian swimmer Aliaksandra Herasimenia, as protests erupted after the disputed re-election of strongman President Alexander Lukashenko. Herasimenia -- who now lives in exile in Lithuania -- sold her 2012 world championship gold medal to raise funds for the foundation. It provides financial and legal assistance to athletes targeted by the authorities after calling for an end to the violent police crackdown on demonstrators. The turmoil has led to Belarus being stripped of hosting this year's ice hockey world championship and a ban on Lukashenko attending Olympic events.

Belarus Olympic athlete Kristina Timanovskaya says she is 'safe': NGO

Britain's world number one Oliver Townend on Sunday took the lead in the equestrian eventing, keeping a clean sheet on the cross-country course while reigning Olympic champion Michael Jung from Germany fell back to a disappointing 10th place.

After completing two of the three disciplines making up eventing - also known as horse triathlon - Britain is on course for team gold, with Australia in the silver medal position and France in bronze.

After dressage and cross-country, the showjumping on Monday will also decide whether Germany's Julia Krajewski can retain her individual silver medal position and Britain's Laura Collett can hold onto bronze.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-athletics-us-sprinter-richardson-applauds-jamaicas-100m-clean-sweep-402081" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep</a>

"A couple of places I thought he's in control and I’m not,” Townend laughed, referring to his horse Ballaghmor. “He wants to do his job more than most horses.”

Jung, who bagged individual gold both at the Rio and London Games and celebrated his 39th birthday on Saturday by coming first in the dressage test, was penalized after knocking down an obstacle in the cross country event - a 4.4 km (2.7 miles) course dotted with 36 fences, drop-offs, and ponds to negotiate at speeds of around 34 km per hour (21 miles per hour).

"I am certainly disappointed about the 11 (penalty) points. We have to continue to fight more than ever and ride a double-zero (penalty points) tomorrow," Jung said after his ride.

"He certainly touched the corner a little bit but by no means in such a way that I would have expected it to fall. And only when I galloped on, I suddenly heard a bang and looked back and gulped a bit: ok the pole is down," Jung said, referring to his horse Chipmunk.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-belinda-bencic-dedicates-singles-gold-to-idols-roger-federer-martina-hingis-402083" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Belinda Bencic dedicates singles gold to idols Roger Federer, Martina Hingis</a>

New Zealand's world number two Tim Price rode to fourth place both individually and with his team, which includes his wife Jonelle, the world number seven.

Equestrian sports do not differentiate between athletes and horses on the basis of gender or sex and athletes over the age of 50 often win medals.

Thailand's Arinadtha Chavatanont crashed into a water feature after her horse slipped when landing on a small piece of land between the obstacle and the pond. Both rider and horse were fine but it spelled the end of the country's dreams of a medal for its first-ever team in the sport.

Sweden's Therese Viklund was also eliminated after she fell off her one-eyed horse Viscera, her airbag vest inflating to cushion her fall.

Britain's world number one Oliver Townend on Sunday took the lead in the equestrian eventing, keeping a clean sheet on the cross-country course while reigning Olympic champion Michael Jung from Germany fell back to a disappointing 10th place.

Britain's world number one Oliver Townend on Sunday took the lead in the equestrian eventing, keeping a clean sheet on the cross-country course while reigning Olympic champion Michael Jung from Germany fell back to a disappointing 10th place. After completing two of the three disciplines making up eventing - also known as horse triathlon - Britain is on course for team gold, with Australia in the silver medal position and France in bronze. After dressage and cross-country, the showjumping on Monday will also decide whether Germany's Julia Krajewski can retain her individual silver medal position and Britain's Laura Collett can hold onto bronze. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep "A couple of places I thought he's in control and I’m not,” Townend laughed, referring to his horse Ballaghmor. “He wants to do his job more than most horses.” Jung, who bagged individual gold both at the Rio and London Games and celebrated his 39th birthday on Saturday by coming first in the dressage test, was penalized after knocking down an obstacle in the cross country event - a 4.4 km (2.7 miles) course dotted with 36 fences, drop-offs, and ponds to negotiate at speeds of around 34 km per hour (21 miles per hour). "I am certainly disappointed about the 11 (penalty) points. We have to continue to fight more than ever and ride a double-zero (penalty points) tomorrow," Jung said after his ride. "He certainly touched the corner a little bit but by no means in such a way that I would have expected it to fall. And only when I galloped on, I suddenly heard a bang and looked back and gulped a bit: ok the pole is down," Jung said, referring to his horse Chipmunk. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Belinda Bencic dedicates singles gold to idols Roger Federer, Martina Hingis New Zealand's world number two Tim Price rode to fourth place both individually and with his team, which includes his wife Jonelle, the world number seven. Equestrian sports do not differentiate between athletes and horses on the basis of gender or sex and athletes over the age of 50 often win medals. Thailand's Arinadtha Chavatanont crashed into a water feature after her horse slipped when landing on a small piece of land between the obstacle and the pond. Both rider and horse were fine but it spelled the end of the country's dreams of a medal for its first-ever team in the sport. Sweden's Therese Viklund was also eliminated after she fell off her one-eyed horse Viscera, her airbag vest inflating to cushion her fall.

Tokyo Olympics: Equestrian - Britain's Oliver Townend takes lead, Germany's Michael Jung falls back

Germany became the first country to reach the semi-finals in the men's hockey tournament after a smooth 3-1 win over Olympic champions Argentina in sauna-like conditions at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;on Sunday.

Germany opened the score in the 19th minute when defender Lukas Windfeder shot a penalty corner low and hard at the left side of the goal, leaving Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi no chance to stop the ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-simone-biles-withdraws-from-another-olympic-final-usa-gymnastics-402104" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020- Simone Biles withdraws from another Olympic final: USA Gymnastics</a>

Ten minutes into the second half, the German side added to their advantage after playing out another penalty corner in a beautiful variation which ended with Timm Herzbruch deflecting a low pass from captain Tobias Hauke into the goal.

By then, the Germans had little left to fear from the Argentineans.

"It's hot weather and hot-minded Argentina and we just want to keep it cool and play our German-style and I think we did exactly that," said forward Christoph Ruhr.

"We had the game in our hands 60 minutes. A very mature play by us."

Windfeder scored another goal, again through a penalty corner, in the 48th minute, effectively securing Germany's spot in the semi-finals and leaving Argentina with a painful loss.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-athletics-us-sprinter-richardson-applauds-jamaicas-100m-clean-sweep-402081" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep</a>

With eight minutes left to&nbsp;go, Maico Casella Schuth scored off a penalty corner for Argentina, but they were not able to add to their score.

Officials doubled the usual two-minute between quarters to allow players to cool down from the heat at the main pitch of the Oi Hockey Stadium, which was sprayed with water during the half-time break to keep play fast and smooth.

The win gave Germany revenge on Argentina after being knocked out by them in the semi-finals of the 2016 Rio&nbsp;Olympics when the Germans had to settle for bronze.

Argentina's lineup in Tokyo still contained many of the names that brought the country their first Olympic gold medal in hockey in 2016: Pedro Ibarra, Agustin Mazzilli, Matias Rey, and 42-year-old goalie Vivaldi.

Germany will play their semi-finals on Tuesday against the winner of the clash between Australia and the Netherlands. The Kookaburras led that match 1-0 at halftime.

Germany became the first country to reach the semi-finals in the men's hockey tournament after a smooth 3-1 win over Olympic champions Argentina in sauna-like conditions at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday.

Germany became the first country to reach the semi-finals in the men's hockey tournament after a smooth 3-1 win over Olympic champions Argentina in sauna-like conditions at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday. Germany opened the score in the 19th minute when defender Lukas Windfeder shot a penalty corner low and hard at the left side of the goal, leaving Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi no chance to stop the ball. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020- Simone Biles withdraws from another Olympic final: USA Gymnastics Ten minutes into the second half, the German side added to their advantage after playing out another penalty corner in a beautiful variation which ended with Timm Herzbruch deflecting a low pass from captain Tobias Hauke into the goal. By then, the Germans had little left to fear from the Argentineans. "It's hot weather and hot-minded Argentina and we just want to keep it cool and play our German-style and I think we did exactly that," said forward Christoph Ruhr. "We had the game in our hands 60 minutes. A very mature play by us." Windfeder scored another goal, again through a penalty corner, in the 48th minute, effectively securing Germany's spot in the semi-finals and leaving Argentina with a painful loss. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep With eight minutes left to go, Maico Casella Schuth scored off a penalty corner for Argentina, but they were not able to add to their score. Officials doubled the usual two-minute between quarters to allow players to cool down from the heat at the main pitch of the Oi Hockey Stadium, which was sprayed with water during the half-time break to keep play fast and smooth. The win gave Germany revenge on Argentina after being knocked out by them in the semi-finals of the 2016 Rio Olympics when the Germans had to settle for bronze. Argentina's lineup in Tokyo still contained many of the names that brought the country their first Olympic gold medal in hockey in 2016: Pedro Ibarra, Agustin Mazzilli, Matias Rey, and 42-year-old goalie Vivaldi. Germany will play their semi-finals on Tuesday against the winner of the clash between Australia and the Netherlands. The Kookaburras led that match 1-0 at halftime.

Tokyo Olympics: Hockey - Germany reaches semis with 3-1 win over Argentina

Gymnastics great Simone&nbsp;Biles&nbsp;has withdrawn from the Olympic floor final, leaving the American with just one more chance of competition at the Tokyo Games, USA Gymnastics said Sunday.

"Simone has withdrawn from the event final for floor and will make a decision on beam later this week. Either way, we're all behind you, Simone," USAG tweeted.

Biles, the four-time Olympic champion widely considered to have pushed the sport to new limits, has said she is struggling with the "twisties", a condition where gymnasts lose the ability to orientate themselves in mid-air.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-tokyo-2020-olympics-novak-djokovic-smashes-racket-during-bronze-medal-match-402078">Tokyo Olympics: Novak Djokovic smashes racket during bronze medal match - watch</a>

The 24-year-old came to Tokyo seeking five gold medals to equal the Olympic all-time gymnastics career record of nine, but dramatically withdrew during her first event, the women's team competition.

Biles&nbsp;then skipped her all-around title defence and on Saturday it was announced she was dropping the vault and uneven bars.

She has documented her struggles with mental health during the Games in regular posts on her social media accounts.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-indias-star-badminton-player-pv-sindhu-to-face-he-bingjiao-in-bronze-medal-match-402101">Tokyo Olympics: India's star badminton player PV Sindhu to face He Bingjiao in bronze medal match</a>

Gymnastics great Simone Biles has withdrawn from the Olympic floor final, leaving the American with just one more chance of competition at the Tokyo Games, USA Gymnastics said Sunday.

Gymnastics great Simone Biles has withdrawn from the Olympic floor final, leaving the American with just one more chance of competition at the Tokyo Games, USA Gymnastics said Sunday. "Simone has withdrawn from the event final for floor and will make a decision on beam later this week. Either way, we're all behind you, Simone," USAG tweeted. Biles, the four-time Olympic champion widely considered to have pushed the sport to new limits, has said she is struggling with the "twisties", a condition where gymnasts lose the ability to orientate themselves in mid-air. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: Novak Djokovic smashes racket during bronze medal match - watch The 24-year-old came to Tokyo seeking five gold medals to equal the Olympic all-time gymnastics career record of nine, but dramatically withdrew during her first event, the women's team competition. Biles then skipped her all-around title defence and on Saturday it was announced she was dropping the vault and uneven bars. She has documented her struggles with mental health during the Games in regular posts on her social media accounts. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: India's star badminton player PV Sindhu to face He Bingjiao in bronze medal match

Tokyo 2020- Simone Biles withdraws from another Olympic final: USA Gymnastics

Indian star badminton player PV Sindhu will now focus on the bronze medal match after losing the women's singles semifinal at Tokyo Olympics 2020. To book a place on the podium, The 2016 Rio silver medallist Sindhu will face He Bingjiao on August 1 (Sunday) at the Musashino Forest Sport Plaza.&nbsp;

In the semi-final match, the Indian No. 6 seed lost 21-18, 21-12 to the No. 2 seed Tai Tzu-Ying of Chinese Taipei, who will clash with top seed Chen Yu Fei in the gold medal match.&nbsp;

After the semi-final loss, Sindhu said, "It was a good match. I fought until the end. In the second game I gave away a huge lead but still I was fighting back because you never know, it can change at any moment. It‘s the Olympics, you have to fight until the last point and I have done that."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-tokyo-2020-olympics-novak-djokovic-smashes-racket-during-bronze-medal-match-402078">Tokyo Olympics: Novak Djokovic smashes racket during bronze medal match - watch</a>

She added, "I'm a bit sad because it’s the semifinals. I’ve tried my best, but it was just not my day."

The reigning world champion PV Sindhu has the chance to become the first Indian female to win two Olympic medals. As far as the third-place match is considered, Sindhu and Bingjiao have met multiple times in the past. However, Bingjiao leads PV Sindhu 9-6 in the head-to-head record.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-vandana-kataria-becomes-first-female-from-india-to-score-hat-trick-at-olympics-401939">Tokyo 2020: Vandana Kataria becomes first female from India to score hat-trick at Olympics</a>

Sindhu and Bingjiao's journey at Tokyo Games:&nbsp;

Sindhu suffered a heartbreaking loss in the semi-final to world number one Tai Tzu Ying 18-21, 12-21. Earlier, she had defeated Yamaguchi in the quarter-final. She had entered the women's singles quarterfinals after beating Denmark's Mia Blichfeldt in straight games in the Round of 16 match. Sindhu had defeated world No. 34 Hong Kong's NY Cheung 21-9 21-16 to top Group J.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the Chinese shuttler Bingjiao lost her semi-final match against her compatriot Chen Yufei. Bingjiao boasts of some outrageous scorelines like 21-6, 21-3. She topped the group stage and entered the quarters. After receiving a bye due to the retirement of Beiwen Zhang of the USA in the Pre-quarters, she defeated Nozomi Okuhara in the quarters by 13-21, 21-13, 21-14.&nbsp;

Indian star badminton player PV Sindhu will now focus on the bronze medal match after losing the women's singles semifinal at Tokyo Olympics 2020. To book a place on the podium, The 2016 Rio silver medallist Sindhu will face He Bingjiao on August 1 (Sunday) at the Musashino Forest Sport Plaza.

Indian star badminton player PV Sindhu will now focus on the bronze medal match after losing the women's singles semifinal at Tokyo Olympics 2020. To book a place on the podium, The 2016 Rio silver medallist Sindhu will face He Bingjiao on August 1 (Sunday) at the Musashino Forest Sport Plaza. In the semi-final match, the Indian No. 6 seed lost 21-18, 21-12 to the No. 2 seed Tai Tzu-Ying of Chinese Taipei, who will clash with top seed Chen Yu Fei in the gold medal match. After the semi-final loss, Sindhu said, "It was a good match. I fought until the end. In the second game I gave away a huge lead but still I was fighting back because you never know, it can change at any moment. It‘s the Olympics, you have to fight until the last point and I have done that." ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: Novak Djokovic smashes racket during bronze medal match - watch She added, "I'm a bit sad because it’s the semifinals. I’ve tried my best, but it was just not my day." The reigning world champion PV Sindhu has the chance to become the first Indian female to win two Olympic medals. As far as the third-place match is considered, Sindhu and Bingjiao have met multiple times in the past. However, Bingjiao leads PV Sindhu 9-6 in the head-to-head record. ALSO READ | Tokyo 2020: Vandana Kataria becomes first female from India to score hat-trick at Olympics Sindhu and Bingjiao's journey at Tokyo Games: Sindhu suffered a heartbreaking loss in the semi-final to world number one Tai Tzu Ying 18-21, 12-21. Earlier, she had defeated Yamaguchi in the quarter-final. She had entered the women's singles quarterfinals after beating Denmark's Mia Blichfeldt in straight games in the Round of 16 match. Sindhu had defeated world No. 34 Hong Kong's NY Cheung 21-9 21-16 to top Group J. On the other hand, the Chinese shuttler Bingjiao lost her semi-final match against her compatriot Chen Yufei. Bingjiao boasts of some outrageous scorelines like 21-6, 21-3. She topped the group stage and entered the quarters. After receiving a bye due to the retirement of Beiwen Zhang of the USA in the Pre-quarters, she defeated Nozomi Okuhara in the quarters by 13-21, 21-13, 21-14.

Tokyo Olympics: India's star badminton player PV Sindhu to face He Bingjiao in bronze medal match

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