<p>Belarusian sprinter Krystina Tsimanouskaya who defected during the Tokyo Olympics this month says she plans to apply for Polish sporting citizenship so that she can run for Poland.<br />
<br />
Tsimanouskaya, 24, was taken in by Warsaw when her coaches told her to return to Belarus from Japan following a dispute, an order she refused to obey fearing for her safety.<br />
<br />
Belarus has been gripped by a sweeping crackdown on anti-government dissent following mass protests that erupted last year over a disputed election.<br />
<br />
In an interview with the RBC television channel aired late on Wednesday, Tsimanouskaya said it can take three years to change sporting citizenship, but she hoped her application would be fast-tracked.<br />
<br />
"We are now going to try to change my sporting citizenship so that I can compete for the Polish national team," she said. "I have decided to stay in Poland and compete for the Polish national team."</p>


Belarusian sprinter Krystina Tsimanouskaya who defected during the Tokyo Olympics this month says she plans to apply for Polish sporting citizenship so that she can run for Poland.

Belarusian sprinter Krystina Tsimanouskaya who defected during the Tokyo Olympics this month says she plans to apply for Polish sporting citizenship so that she can run for Poland. Tsimanouskaya, 24, was taken in by Warsaw when her coaches told her to return to Belarus from Japan following a dispute, an order she refused to obey fearing for her safety. Belarus has been gripped by a sweeping crackdown on anti-government dissent following mass protests that erupted last year over a disputed election. In an interview with the RBC television channel aired late on Wednesday, Tsimanouskaya said it can take three years to change sporting citizenship, but she hoped her application would be fast-tracked. "We are now going to try to change my sporting citizenship so that I can compete for the Polish national team," she said. "I have decided to stay in Poland and compete for the Polish national team."

Olympics: Belarusian sprinter who defected plans to run for Poland

<p>The Indian women`s hockey team fought hard against the best teams in the world and earned their best-ever finish (fourth place) at the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics. Having saved some mighty blows in the mega event, goalkeeper Savita Punia fell short of words to describe the feeling of getting appreciation from every corner of the country.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, sports marketing firm, Baseline Ventures has now added Savita to their talent roster. The multi-year deal will see Baseline managing all the commercial interests of Savita.</p>

<p>Talking about the development, Savita said, "It`s fantastic to be represented by Baseline Ventures after our brilliant performance at the Olympic Games. There`s no better feeling in the world when your hard work is recognised and appreciated. Baseline Ventures represents some of the prime athletes in our country and I am ecstatic to be represented by them. This association will motive me, even more, to perform at the highest level for my country," she added.</p>

<p>Born in Jodhkan, Sirsa district, Haryana, Savita is known as one of the best women`s hockey goalkeepers in the world.</p>

<p>"The Wall" of the Indian team, Savita has been part of multiple victories of the national team which includes a Bronze Medal at the 2014 Asian Games and a Silver Medal at the 2018 Asian Games.</p>

<p>Savita also played a crucial role in India`s historic 1-0 victory against Australia in the quarter-finals of the recently-concluded Tokyo Olympics.</p>

<p>"Savita has been the heartbeat of the Indian women`s hockey team for several years. She has played a key role in many victories for the Indian team, the most important of them all being the 1-0 victory against Japan which helped India book a place in the Olympics for the first time in 36 years. We are very honoured and privileged to manage Savita going forward and we are looking forward to a fantastic association," said Managing Director, Tuhin Mishra.&nbsp;</p>


The Indian women`s hockey team fought hard against the best teams in the world and earned their best-ever finish (fourth place) at the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics.

The Indian women`s hockey team fought hard against the best teams in the world and earned their best-ever finish (fourth place) at the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics. Having saved some mighty blows in the mega event, goalkeeper Savita Punia fell short of words to describe the feeling of getting appreciation from every corner of the country. Meanwhile, sports marketing firm, Baseline Ventures has now added Savita to their talent roster. The multi-year deal will see Baseline managing all the commercial interests of Savita. Talking about the development, Savita said, "It`s fantastic to be represented by Baseline Ventures after our brilliant performance at the Olympic Games. There`s no better feeling in the world when your hard work is recognised and appreciated. Baseline Ventures represents some of the prime athletes in our country and I am ecstatic to be represented by them. This association will motive me, even more, to perform at the highest level for my country," she added. Born in Jodhkan, Sirsa district, Haryana, Savita is known as one of the best women`s hockey goalkeepers in the world. "The Wall" of the Indian team, Savita has been part of multiple victories of the national team which includes a Bronze Medal at the 2014 Asian Games and a Silver Medal at the 2018 Asian Games. Savita also played a crucial role in India`s historic 1-0 victory against Australia in the quarter-finals of the recently-concluded Tokyo Olympics. "Savita has been the heartbeat of the Indian women`s hockey team for several years. She has played a key role in many victories for the Indian team, the most important of them all being the 1-0 victory against Japan which helped India book a place in the Olympics for the first time in 36 years. We are very honoured and privileged to manage Savita going forward and we are looking forward to a fantastic association," said Managing Director, Tuhin Mishra.

No better feeling in world than your hard work being recognised, says Savita Punia

<p>The first batch of Indian para-athletes arrived in Tokyo on Wednesday for the Tokyo Paralympics which gets underway from August 24.</p>

<p>54 para-athletes from across 9 sports disciplines will be featuring in the showpiece event. This is India's biggest ever contingent to the Paralympic Games.</p>

<p>The first batch of the Indian contingent for the 2020 Paralympics had departed for Tokyo from Delhi's Indira Gandhi International airport in the wee hours of Wednesday.</p>

<p>Ahead of departure, Tek Chand, a javelin thrower, said, "I will try my best to win a medal. There were few hurdles but it is part of life. I overcame them. Today, I am going to play for the country."</p>

<p>Speaking to ANI, Deepa Malik, the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) President, said the Indian team looks in great shape.</p>

<p>"Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent his wishes along with the Sports Minister, Anurag Thakur. I'm delighted. I'm in a different role as I'm not playing this year but it is a different feeling to work alongside para-athletes. The team looks in great shape. I wish them all the best for the Games," she said.</p>

<p>The Tokyo Paralympic Games is scheduled to be held between August 24 and September 5. India will start its campaign on August 27 with men's and women's archery events.</p>

<p>Thangavelu Mariyappan, Rio 2016 Gold Medal winner, will be the flag bearer of India while Gursharan Singh will be the Chef de Mission of the team.&nbsp;</p>


The first batch of Indian para-athletes arrived in Tokyo on Wednesday for the Tokyo Paralympics which gets underway from August 24. 54 para-athletes from across 9 sports disciplines will be featuring in the showpiece event.

The first batch of Indian para-athletes arrived in Tokyo on Wednesday for the Tokyo Paralympics which gets underway from August 24. 54 para-athletes from across 9 sports disciplines will be featuring in the showpiece event. This is India's biggest ever contingent to the Paralympic Games. The first batch of the Indian contingent for the 2020 Paralympics had departed for Tokyo from Delhi's Indira Gandhi International airport in the wee hours of Wednesday. Ahead of departure, Tek Chand, a javelin thrower, said, "I will try my best to win a medal. There were few hurdles but it is part of life. I overcame them. Today, I am going to play for the country." Speaking to ANI, Deepa Malik, the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) President, said the Indian team looks in great shape. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent his wishes along with the Sports Minister, Anurag Thakur. I'm delighted. I'm in a different role as I'm not playing this year but it is a different feeling to work alongside para-athletes. The team looks in great shape. I wish them all the best for the Games," she said. The Tokyo Paralympic Games is scheduled to be held between August 24 and September 5. India will start its campaign on August 27 with men's and women's archery events. Thangavelu Mariyappan, Rio 2016 Gold Medal winner, will be the flag bearer of India while Gursharan Singh will be the Chef de Mission of the team.

First batch of Indian athletes arrive in Tokyo for Paralympics

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked former World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev and said that he has been a "constant source of inspiration for all sports lovers".</p>

<p>PM Modi, who was replying to Kapil Dev's tweet, further added, "All of us have to work together and ensure Indian sports reaches new heights in the times to come."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Kapil Dev took to Twitter to praise the Indian Prime Minister for&nbsp;his interaction with the medal winners at Tokyo Olympics 2020, which concluded on August 8 and Indian registered its best-ever medal haul at the Games.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-75th-independence-day-from-olympics-to-cricket-when-free-india-shined-in-the-world-of-sports-404891" hreflang="en">India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports</a></p>

<p>Recently, PM Modi hosted the athletes at his official residence to have breakfast with him on Monday (August 16). He met and interacted with all the medal winners.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former skipper wrote, "Dear @narendramodiJi, Watched your interaction with Olympians and absolutely loved it. This will strike a chord with every sportsperson. aaj aapne puurii Sports Fraternity kaa dil jiit liyaa hai / jy hiNd! [You have won hearts of all sports fraternity, Jai Hind]"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-narendra-modi-fulfils-promise-has-ice-cream-with-badminton-star-pv-sindhu-see-pics-406308">PM Narendra Modi fulfils promise, has ice cream with badminton star PV Sindhu - see pics</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/therealkapildev?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@therealkapildev</a> Ji for the kind words.<br />
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You have been a constant source of inspiration for all sports lovers.<br />
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All of us have to work together and ensure Indian sports reaches new heights in the times to come. <a href="https://t.co/gb1aifZBW0">https://t.co/gb1aifZBW0</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1427942455144378370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Badminton star PV Sindhu, Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, Bajrang Punia, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya and Indian Men's hockey team were also present.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi in his Independence Day speech applauded the Indian Olympic athletes and said the country was proud of them for bringing glory to the nation and that their feat has inspired future generations.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked former World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev and said that he has been a "constant source of inspiration for all sports lovers".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked former World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev and said that he has been a "constant source of inspiration for all sports lovers". PM Modi, who was replying to Kapil Dev's tweet, further added, "All of us have to work together and ensure Indian sports reaches new heights in the times to come." Earlier, Kapil Dev took to Twitter to praise the Indian Prime Minister for his interaction with the medal winners at Tokyo Olympics 2020, which concluded on August 8 and Indian registered its best-ever medal haul at the Games. IN PICS: India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports Recently, PM Modi hosted the athletes at his official residence to have breakfast with him on Monday (August 16). He met and interacted with all the medal winners. The former skipper wrote, "Dear @narendramodiJi, Watched your interaction with Olympians and absolutely loved it. This will strike a chord with every sportsperson. aaj aapne puurii Sports Fraternity kaa dil jiit liyaa hai / jy hiNd! [You have won hearts of all sports fraternity, Jai Hind]" ALSO READ | PM Narendra Modi fulfils promise, has ice cream with badminton star PV Sindhu - see pics Thank you @therealkapildev Ji for the kind words. You have been a constant source of inspiration for all sports lovers. All of us have to work together and ensure Indian sports reaches new heights in the times to come. https://t.co/gb1aifZBW0 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 18, 2021 × Badminton star PV Sindhu, Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, Bajrang Punia, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya and Indian Men's hockey team were also present. PM Modi in his Independence Day speech applauded the Indian Olympic athletes and said the country was proud of them for bringing glory to the nation and that their feat has inspired future generations.

'All of us have to ensure Indian sports reaches new heights': PM Modi tells Kapil Dev

<p>At the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics 2020, Poland's javelin thrower Maria Andrejczyk won a silver in women's javelin with a best of 64.61m, while China's Liu Shiying claimed the gold medal as she threw a best of 66.34 metres on her first attempt for victory. South African-born Australian Kelsey-Lee Barber won bronze with a throw of 64.56m.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a turn of events, Poland's Andrejczyk auctioned off the elusive medal that she won but for a very special cause, which is to help in funding of a&nbsp;life-saving heart surgery for an eight-month-old boy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Andrejczyk posted on her Facebook account that she came across the fundraiser for 8-month-old Miłoszek Małysa, who needs surgery for a serious heart defect.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/please-hold-my-hand-and-help-me-afghan-athlete-wants-to-participate-in-tokyo-paralympics-issues-plea-for-help-406477">'Please hold my hand and help me': Afghan athlete wants to participate in Tokyo Paralympics, issues plea for help</a></strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-paralympics-will-be-held-behind-closed-doors-due-to-covid-19-fears-organisers-406039">Tokyo Paralympics will be held behind closed doors due to COVID-19 fears: Organisers</a></strong></p>

<p>She helped in raising the money for the generous cause and decided to auction off her lone Olympic medal. Andrejczyk had finished fourth at Rio Olympics in 2016 and recovered from bone cancer following a diagnosis in 2018. Her performance at the Tokyo Games earned her praises.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Andrejczyk, on her Facebook page, wrote, "He already has a head start from Kubus -- a boy who didn't make it in time but whose amazing parents decided to pass on the funds they collected."</p>

<p>She added, "And in this way, I also want to help. It's for him that I am auctioning my Olympic silver medal."</p>

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<p>However, in a recent development, Andrejczyk confirmed that a Polish supermarket chain won the auction with a bid of $125,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now the money that has been raised will allow the boy to get the necessary surgery at Stanford University Medical Center.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some media reports have mentioned that Żabka, the Polish supermarket chain, has decided to give her medal back.&nbsp;</p>


At the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics 2020, Poland's javelin thrower Maria Andrejczyk won a silver in women's javelin with a best of 64.61m, while China's Liu Shiying claimed the gold medal as she threw a best of 66.

At the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics 2020, Poland's javelin thrower Maria Andrejczyk won a silver in women's javelin with a best of 64.61m, while China's Liu Shiying claimed the gold medal as she threw a best of 66.34 metres on her first attempt for victory. South African-born Australian Kelsey-Lee Barber won bronze with a throw of 64.56m. In a turn of events, Poland's Andrejczyk auctioned off the elusive medal that she won but for a very special cause, which is to help in funding of a life-saving heart surgery for an eight-month-old boy. Recently, Andrejczyk posted on her Facebook account that she came across the fundraiser for 8-month-old Miłoszek Małysa, who needs surgery for a serious heart defect. ALSO READ | 'Please hold my hand and help me': Afghan athlete wants to participate in Tokyo Paralympics, issues plea for help × ALSO READ | Tokyo Paralympics will be held behind closed doors due to COVID-19 fears: Organisers She helped in raising the money for the generous cause and decided to auction off her lone Olympic medal. Andrejczyk had finished fourth at Rio Olympics in 2016 and recovered from bone cancer following a diagnosis in 2018. Her performance at the Tokyo Games earned her praises. Andrejczyk, on her Facebook page, wrote, "He already has a head start from Kubus -- a boy who didn't make it in time but whose amazing parents decided to pass on the funds they collected." She added, "And in this way, I also want to help. It's for him that I am auctioning my Olympic silver medal." × However, in a recent development, Andrejczyk confirmed that a Polish supermarket chain won the auction with a bid of $125,000. Now the money that has been raised will allow the boy to get the necessary surgery at Stanford University Medical Center. Some media reports have mentioned that Żabka, the Polish supermarket chain, has decided to give her medal back.

Tokyo 2020: Polish javelin star Maria Andrejczyk auctions off Olympic silver medal for a special cause

<p>It looks like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fulfilled his promise of eating ice cream with badminton star PV Sindhu when he hosted some of the Indian athletes at his residence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-time Olympic medallist was spotted with a bowl of ice cream when the Indian Tokyo Olympics contingent went to PM Modi's official residence to have breakfast with him on Monday (August 16).&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Sindhu had won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Games, her father PV Ramana spoke to ANI and apprised them of Sindhu's plans to eat ice cream with the Indian Prime Minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-75th-independence-day-from-olympics-to-cricket-when-free-india-shined-in-the-world-of-sports-404891" hreflang="en">India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports</a></p>

<p>Now, in the pictures shared by Sindhu, she can be seen interacting with PM Modi with a bowl of ice cream in her hand.</p>

<p>In the caption, Sindhu wrote, "It was an absolute honour to have met with our Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji. I’m so grateful for all the help he has given to all of us athletes. I’m so excited to have finally got the chance to talk over some ice cream and also to have gifted him my racket as a small token of appreciation."</p>

<p><strong>See some of the pictures here:</strong></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSpMQDooOKq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Sindhu Pv (@pvsindhu1)</a></p>
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<p><strong>Watch PM Modi's interaction with Sindhu and her parents:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1414966949084209155?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-neeraj-chopras-javelin-throw-that-won-india-its-first-ever-athletics-gold-watch-403719">Neeraj Chopra's throw that won India its first-ever athletics gold - WATCH</a></p>

<p>Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra was also there. He became India's first-ever gold medallist in track and field, leading India to its best-ever haul in the Olympics with seven medals — a gold, two silvers and four bronze medals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mirabai Chanu, Bajrang Punia, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya and Indian Men's hockey team were also present.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi in his Independence Day speech applauded the Indian Olympic athletes and said the country was proud of them for bringing glory to the nation and that their feat has inspired future generations.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>Watch her exclusive interview here:</strong></p>

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It looks like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fulfilled his promise of eating ice cream with badminton star PV Sindhu when he hosted some of the Indian athletes at his residence.

It looks like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fulfilled his promise of eating ice cream with badminton star PV Sindhu when he hosted some of the Indian athletes at his residence. The two-time Olympic medallist was spotted with a bowl of ice cream when the Indian Tokyo Olympics contingent went to PM Modi's official residence to have breakfast with him on Monday (August 16). After Sindhu had won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Games, her father PV Ramana spoke to ANI and apprised them of Sindhu's plans to eat ice cream with the Indian Prime Minister. IN PICS | Olympics: As PV Sindhu wins bronze for India, a look at her outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020 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. IN PICS: India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports Now, in the pictures shared by Sindhu, she can be seen interacting with PM Modi with a bowl of ice cream in her hand. In the caption, Sindhu wrote, "It was an absolute honour to have met with our Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji. I’m so grateful for all the help he has given to all of us athletes. I’m so excited to have finally got the chance to talk over some ice cream and also to have gifted him my racket as a small token of appreciation." See some of the pictures here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sindhu Pv (@pvsindhu1) × 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 × ALSO READ: Neeraj Chopra's throw that won India its first-ever athletics gold - WATCH Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra was also there. He became India's first-ever gold medallist in track and field, leading India to its best-ever haul in the Olympics with seven medals — a gold, two silvers and four bronze medals. Mirabai Chanu, Bajrang Punia, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya and Indian Men's hockey team were also present. PM Modi in his Independence Day speech applauded the Indian Olympic athletes and said the country was proud of them for bringing glory to the nation and that their feat has inspired future generations. 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: ×

PM Narendra Modi fulfils promise, has ice cream with badminton star PV Sindhu - see pics

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the athletes who participated in the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics as he addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 75th Independence Day. India registered its best-ever performance at the Olympic Games with seven medals — one gold, two silver and four bronze medals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi said, "The athletes who have made us proud at Tokyo Olympics are here amongst us today. I urge the nation to applaud their achievement today. They have not only won our hearts but also inspired future generations."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-necessary-to-make-full-use-of-indias-potential-says-pm-modi-405470">Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>"There was a time when sports wasn't considered a part of the mainstream. Parents used to tell children that they would spoil their life if they kept playing. Now, awareness regarding sports &amp; fitness has come within the country. We have experienced this in Olympics this time," PM Modi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also said, "Sports has been made a part of mainstream education instead of being limited extra-curricular activity."</p>

<p><strong>Watch PM Modi's address here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Addressing the nation from the Red Fort. Watch. <a href="https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs">https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1426728344867860485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pm-narendra-modi-remembers-freedom-fighters-honours-covid-19-warriors-and-olympians-during-independence-day-address-405485">PM Narendra Modi remembers freedom fighters, honours COVID-19 warriors and Olympians during Independence Day address</a></strong></p>

<p>India's javelin ace Neeraj Chopra had earlier said, "Earlier, we used to watch it (flag hoisting ceremony) on TV &amp; now we're personally going there. It's a new experience. We hadn't won a gold medal in individual sports for so long. I felt good that the country felt proud because of me."</p>

<p>With a mammoth 87.58m throw, the 23-year-old Chopra clinched India's maiden Olympics athletics. He became only the second individual Olympic gold medalist for India after Abhinav Bindra won shooting gold in 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his speech, PM Modi further added, "It's a major turning point for our country. In this decade we've to further speed up drive to bring in talent, technology and professionalism in sports in the country. It's a matter of pride that India's daughters are giving a splendid performance, be it Boards exams or Olympics."</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the athletes who participated in the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics as he addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 75th Independence Day.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the athletes who participated in the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics as he addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 75th Independence Day. India registered its best-ever performance at the Olympic Games with seven medals — one gold, two silver and four bronze medals. PM Modi said, "The athletes who have made us proud at Tokyo Olympics are here amongst us today. I urge the nation to applaud their achievement today. They have not only won our hearts but also inspired future generations." ALSO READ | Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi "There was a time when sports wasn't considered a part of the mainstream. Parents used to tell children that they would spoil their life if they kept playing. Now, awareness regarding sports & fitness has come within the country. We have experienced this in Olympics this time," PM Modi added. PM Modi also said, "Sports has been made a part of mainstream education instead of being limited extra-curricular activity." Watch PM Modi's address here: Addressing the nation from the Red Fort. Watch. https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2021 × IN PICS | PM Narendra Modi remembers freedom fighters, honours COVID-19 warriors and Olympians during Independence Day address India's javelin ace Neeraj Chopra had earlier said, "Earlier, we used to watch it (flag hoisting ceremony) on TV & now we're personally going there. It's a new experience. We hadn't won a gold medal in individual sports for so long. I felt good that the country felt proud because of me." With a mammoth 87.58m throw, the 23-year-old Chopra clinched India's maiden Olympics athletics. He became only the second individual Olympic gold medalist for India after Abhinav Bindra won shooting gold in 2008. In his speech, PM Modi further added, "It's a major turning point for our country. In this decade we've to further speed up drive to bring in talent, technology and professionalism in sports in the country. It's a matter of pride that India's daughters are giving a splendid performance, be it Boards exams or Olympics."

75th Independence Day: PM Modi congratulates Tokyo Olympics stars, says 'inspired future generations'

<p>People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has urged to eliminate all equestrian events from the Olympics. In a letter written to Thomas Bach, who is the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), PETA mentioned the controversy over equestrian sports, citing an incident during the recently concluded 2020 Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the letter dated August 13, PETA gave reference to an incident that happened during the Tokyo Olympics when German pentathlon competitor, Annika Schleu, was spotted spurring and whipping the horse Saint Boy after it refused to enter the course.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Schleu's trainer, Kim Raisner, was also seen hitting the horse, however, the coach was thrown out of the Tokyo Olympics for punching a horse during competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But PETA writes that "fines and suspensions aren't enough" to protect other horses who might face similar consequences.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/out-of-touch-north-koreas-state-tv-airs-tokyo-olympics-match-days-after-closing-ceremony-405095">Out of touch: North Korea's state TV airs Tokyo Olympics match days after closing ceremony</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Clearly the horse is in distress as Annika Schleu of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GER</a> in tears struggling to control him. Then her coach Kim Raisner violated the rules by punching the horse. Coach has now been disqualified from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a>. Poor horse. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ModernPentathlon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ModernPentathlon</a><br />
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<a href="https://t.co/GphQ5g4CkV">pic.twitter.com/GphQ5g4CkV</a></p>
— 𝗔𝘆𝘀𝗵𝗮 𝗥𝗶𝗱𝘇𝘂𝗮𝗻 (@ayshardzn) <a href="https://twitter.com/ayshardzn/status/1423973863860277248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Apart from Tokyo Games, PETA also noted two incidents in the equestrian eventing competition. In one Jet Set, a horse ridden by a Swiss competitor Robin Godel was injured so badly during a cross-country event that he had to be euthanized.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the other saw Irish rider Cian O'Connor force his mount Kilkenny to finish the course despite blood pouring from his nostrils.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The letter also included the inclusion of new sports at the Tokyo Games like skateboarding, surfing&nbsp;and sport climbing. The letter further added that&nbsp;it's "time to remove sports" that are no longer supported by the public.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/british-olympic-silver-medallist-cj-ujah-suspended-for-alleged-doping-405069">British Olympic silver medallist CJ Ujah suspended for alleged doping</a></strong></p>

<p>"The Olympic Games showcase human athletes, not the ability to terrify and injure horses who don't choose to compete yet are doing all the work, sometimes at the cost of their very lives," said PETA President Ingrid Newkirk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;"Just as the games have evolved to include modern sports like skateboarding, PETA is calling on the International Olympic Committee to relegate abusive equestrian events to the history books."&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, there's no comment from the IOC.&nbsp;</p>


People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has urged to eliminate all equestrian events from the Olympics. In a letter written to Thomas Bach, who is the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), PETA mentioned the controversy over equestrian sports, citing an incident during the recently concluded 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has urged to eliminate all equestrian events from the Olympics. In a letter written to Thomas Bach, who is the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), PETA mentioned the controversy over equestrian sports, citing an incident during the recently concluded 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In the letter dated August 13, PETA gave reference to an incident that happened during the Tokyo Olympics when German pentathlon competitor, Annika Schleu, was spotted spurring and whipping the horse Saint Boy after it refused to enter the course. Schleu's trainer, Kim Raisner, was also seen hitting the horse, however, the coach was thrown out of the Tokyo Olympics for punching a horse during competition. But PETA writes that "fines and suspensions aren't enough" to protect other horses who might face similar consequences. ALSO READ | Out of touch: North Korea's state TV airs Tokyo Olympics match days after closing ceremony Clearly the horse is in distress as Annika Schleu of #GER in tears struggling to control him. Then her coach Kim Raisner violated the rules by punching the horse. Coach has now been disqualified from #Tokyo2020. Poor horse. #ModernPentathlon pic.twitter.com/GphQ5g4CkV — 𝗔𝘆𝘀𝗵𝗮 𝗥𝗶𝗱𝘇𝘂𝗮𝗻 (@ayshardzn) August 7, 2021 × Apart from Tokyo Games, PETA also noted two incidents in the equestrian eventing competition. In one Jet Set, a horse ridden by a Swiss competitor Robin Godel was injured so badly during a cross-country event that he had to be euthanized. While the other saw Irish rider Cian O'Connor force his mount Kilkenny to finish the course despite blood pouring from his nostrils. The letter also included the inclusion of new sports at the Tokyo Games like skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing. The letter further added that it's "time to remove sports" that are no longer supported by the public. ALSO READ | British Olympic silver medallist CJ Ujah suspended for alleged doping "The Olympic Games showcase human athletes, not the ability to terrify and injure horses who don't choose to compete yet are doing all the work, sometimes at the cost of their very lives," said PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. "Just as the games have evolved to include modern sports like skateboarding, PETA is calling on the International Olympic Committee to relegate abusive equestrian events to the history books." So far, there's no comment from the IOC.

'Relegate abusive events': PETA urges IOC president to ban equestrian events from Olympic Games

<p>India's javelin ace Neeraj Chopra moved up 14 places to become World No. 2 as per the latest World Athletics Men's Javelin Rankings (as of 10 August 2021).</p>

<p>Neeraj won a historic gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, leading India to its best-ever haul in the Olympics with seven medals — a gold, two silvers and four bronze medals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a mammoth 87.58m throw, the 23-year-old Chopra clinched India's maiden Olympics athletics. He became only the second individual Olympic gold medalist for India after Abhinav Bindra won shooting gold in 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the world ranking, Neeraj gained a whopping 14 places to occupy the second spot in the men's javelin throw. He was at 16 before the Tokyo Games with an average performance score of 1224.</p>

<p>However, as per the latest ranking, Chopra is now at the second spot with 1315 average performance score behind German Johannes Vetter (1396).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-chopras-brand-value-is-second-to-virat-kohli-after-winning-gold-at-tokyo-olympics-404681">Neeraj Chopra's brand value is second to Virat Kohli after winning Gold at Tokyo Olympics</a></strong></p>

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<p>Chopra collected 1296 performance points for topping the Olympic qualification round on August 4 and 1559 points for winning the gold in the final. Three other events of this year — Federation Cup, Indian Grand Prix-3 and Kuortane Games (Finland) — where he had come up with big throws were also considered in the ranking process.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-neeraj-chopras-javelin-throw-that-won-india-its-first-ever-athletics-gold-watch-403719">Neeraj Chopra's throw that won India its first-ever athletics gold - WATCH</a></p>

<p>Marcin Krukowski of Poland was third in the latest world rankings with an average performance score of 1302 and Tokyo Olympics silver winner Jakub Vadlejch of Czech Republic was fourth with a score of 1298.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's javelin ace Neeraj Chopra moved up 14 places to become World No. 2 as per the latest World Athletics Men's Javelin Rankings (as of 10 August 2021). Neeraj won a historic gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, leading India to its best-ever haul in the Olympics with seven medals — a gold, two silvers and four bronze medals.

India's javelin ace Neeraj Chopra moved up 14 places to become World No. 2 as per the latest World Athletics Men's Javelin Rankings (as of 10 August 2021). Neeraj won a historic gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, leading India to its best-ever haul in the Olympics with seven medals — a gold, two silvers and four bronze medals. With a mammoth 87.58m throw, the 23-year-old Chopra clinched India's maiden Olympics athletics. He became only the second individual Olympic gold medalist for India after Abhinav Bindra won shooting gold in 2008. In the world ranking, Neeraj gained a whopping 14 places to occupy the second spot in the men's javelin throw. He was at 16 before the Tokyo Games with an average performance score of 1224. However, as per the latest ranking, Chopra is now at the second spot with 1315 average performance score behind German Johannes Vetter (1396). ALSO READ | Neeraj Chopra's brand value is second to Virat Kohli after winning Gold at Tokyo Olympics × Chopra collected 1296 performance points for topping the Olympic qualification round on August 4 and 1559 points for winning the gold in the final. Three other events of this year — Federation Cup, Indian Grand Prix-3 and Kuortane Games (Finland) — where he had come up with big throws were also considered in the ranking process. ALSO READ: Neeraj Chopra's throw that won India its first-ever athletics gold - WATCH Marcin Krukowski of Poland was third in the latest world rankings with an average performance score of 1302 and Tokyo Olympics silver winner Jakub Vadlejch of Czech Republic was fourth with a score of 1298. (with inputs from agencies)

Neeraj Chopra jumps 14 places to 2nd in world rankings after historic gold medal at Tokyo Olympics

<p>British sprinter CJ&nbsp;Ujah, who won an Olympic silver medal in the 4x100m relay in Tokyo, was Thursday suspended for an alleged anti-doping breach, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced.</p>

<p>If the case is proven, then 27-year-old&nbsp;Ujah&nbsp;and the British team will be stripped of the silver they won behind Italy in Japan.</p>

<p>The AIU said that&nbsp;Ujah&nbsp;was found to have "presence/use of prohibited substances ostarine and S-23, which are selective androgen receptor modulators (SARM)".</p>

<p>They are substances commonly used to build muscle.</p>

<p>In his most recent Instagram posting,&nbsp;Ujah&nbsp;wrote: "Stay focused...Because truth is madder than fiction".</p>

<p>As well as&nbsp;Ujah, Bahrain's 1500m runner Sadik Mikhou, Georgian shot-putter Benik Abramyan and Kenyan sprinter Mark Otieno Odhiambo have also been provisionally suspended following adverse tests, the AIU added.</p>

<p>"The AIU now awaits the conclusion of the International Testing Agency (ITA) proceedings against the above athletes, which will determine whether any anti-doping rule violations have been committed and what consequences (if any) should be imposed in relation to the Olympic Games," said a statement.</p>

<p>"Any consequences beyond the Olympic Games to be imposed upon the athletes under the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules will be determined following the conclusion of the ITA proceedings."</p>


British sprinter CJ Ujah, who won an Olympic silver medal in the 4x100m relay in Tokyo, was Thursday suspended for an alleged anti-doping breach, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced.

British sprinter CJ Ujah, who won an Olympic silver medal in the 4x100m relay in Tokyo, was Thursday suspended for an alleged anti-doping breach, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced. If the case is proven, then 27-year-old Ujah and the British team will be stripped of the silver they won behind Italy in Japan. The AIU said that Ujah was found to have "presence/use of prohibited substances ostarine and S-23, which are selective androgen receptor modulators (SARM)". They are substances commonly used to build muscle. In his most recent Instagram posting, Ujah wrote: "Stay focused...Because truth is madder than fiction". As well as Ujah, Bahrain's 1500m runner Sadik Mikhou, Georgian shot-putter Benik Abramyan and Kenyan sprinter Mark Otieno Odhiambo have also been provisionally suspended following adverse tests, the AIU added. "The AIU now awaits the conclusion of the International Testing Agency (ITA) proceedings against the above athletes, which will determine whether any anti-doping rule violations have been committed and what consequences (if any) should be imposed in relation to the Olympic Games," said a statement. "Any consequences beyond the Olympic Games to be imposed upon the athletes under the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules will be determined following the conclusion of the ITA proceedings."

British Olympic silver medallist CJ Ujah suspended for alleged doping

<p>Vinesh Phogat was temporarily suspended by the Wrestling Federation of India for her alleged indiscipline&nbsp;during Tokyo Olympics 2020. As per the federation, she did not wear the name of the official sponsor of the Indian team and also refused to stay along with the Indian contingent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The federation had given a notice to Vinesh on three counts and gave her time until August 16 to answer the notice. However, the wrestler broke her silence on the controversy and revealed her struggles during the Games and also gave her reason on why she decided to stay away from the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-75th-independence-day-from-olympics-to-cricket-when-free-india-shined-in-the-world-of-sports-404891" hreflang="en">India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports</a></p>

<p>Phogat said that the real reason why she did not stay with the team was because of the risk of the coronavirus. She said that she did not want to risk her teammates with the virus and that is the reason she wanted to stay away from them for 2-3 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“When these things have happened, why will I stay with the Indian team? They were tested everyday for seven days. I wasn’t. What if I got it on the flight and infected them? I was, in fact, thinking about them and wanted to stay away for 2-3 days to be sure that they were not at risk. What’s the big deal? After 2-3 days I was going to join them and even began training with Seema. So there’s no question of me not being a team-player," she wrote in her tell-all piece to Indian Express.</p>

<p>Last year, Phogat contracted the dreaded virus twice. The first time being August 2020, since then she has been unable to digest protein and the second time was when she returned from Asian Championships in Almaty, Kazakhstan in April.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/football-here-is-how-much-lionel-messi-will-be-%20making-at-paris-saint-germain-check-out-the-mind-blowing-figures-404840" hreflang="en">Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures</a></p>

<p>The federation had accused Vinesh's Hungarian coach of misusing the funds given to training the wrestler by the Indian government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Brij Bhushan Saran Singh, president of the Wrestling Federation of India had claimed: “Vinesh trained in Hungary for two years. Her coach Woller Akos also comes from Hungary. He has fooled us with his training methods. He trained his wife Mariana Sustin and Vinesh together in Hungary. His wife also qualified but lost in the first round. Therefore, it is possible that he used the grant money from the Government of India for his wife’s training."</p>

<p>Phogat defended her coach by saying: “And which team did I not train with? No one asked me what I did or who I was with. If you were really expecting a gold, then shouldn’t my long term physio Purnima have been there? (My coach) Woller travelled with me, to help me, stayed with me in Lucknow when his one-year-old son was in Budapest. When COVID hit, he continued training and motivated me when the Olympics was postponed. He did not care about his personal life. How can you blame that person?"</p>

<p>Vinesh also revealed Woller's reaction when she crashed out of the Tokyo Olympics.</p>

<p>“Woller did everything. He didn’t stop crying when I lost. His wife didn’t stop crying. She’s a 4-time Olympian, and was only of help to my training being from a higher weight category. I’ve won these last three years with the same support staff," she said.</p>

<p>Vinesh also revealed her broken state ever since crashing out of the Tokyo Olympics. She said: “I slept once since I reached home. I slept for two hours on the flight and sometimes in the Village. There, I would walk alone and drink coffee. I was alone. When the sun would rise, I felt sleepy."</p>

<p>“I never said make me a contender for gold. I am wrestling for myself and I was the first to feel awful after losing, but let me do it. Leave me alone."</p>

<p>“I don’t know when I will return (to the mat). Maybe I won’t. I feel I was better off with that broken leg. I had something to correct. Now my body is not broken, but I’m truly broken," she concluded.</p>


Vinesh Phogat was temporarily suspended by the Wrestling Federation of India for her alleged indiscipline during Tokyo Olympics 2020. As per the federation, she did not wear the name of the official sponsor of the Indian team and also refused to stay along with the Indian contingent.

Vinesh Phogat was temporarily suspended by the Wrestling Federation of India for her alleged indiscipline during Tokyo Olympics 2020. As per the federation, she did not wear the name of the official sponsor of the Indian team and also refused to stay along with the Indian contingent. The federation had given a notice to Vinesh on three counts and gave her time until August 16 to answer the notice. However, the wrestler broke her silence on the controversy and revealed her struggles during the Games and also gave her reason on why she decided to stay away from the team. ALSO READ: India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports Phogat said that the real reason why she did not stay with the team was because of the risk of the coronavirus. She said that she did not want to risk her teammates with the virus and that is the reason she wanted to stay away from them for 2-3 days. “When these things have happened, why will I stay with the Indian team? They were tested everyday for seven days. I wasn’t. What if I got it on the flight and infected them? I was, in fact, thinking about them and wanted to stay away for 2-3 days to be sure that they were not at risk. What’s the big deal? After 2-3 days I was going to join them and even began training with Seema. So there’s no question of me not being a team-player," she wrote in her tell-all piece to Indian Express. Last year, Phogat contracted the dreaded virus twice. The first time being August 2020, since then she has been unable to digest protein and the second time was when she returned from Asian Championships in Almaty, Kazakhstan in April. ALSO READ: Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures The federation had accused Vinesh's Hungarian coach of misusing the funds given to training the wrestler by the Indian government. Brij Bhushan Saran Singh, president of the Wrestling Federation of India had claimed: “Vinesh trained in Hungary for two years. Her coach Woller Akos also comes from Hungary. He has fooled us with his training methods. He trained his wife Mariana Sustin and Vinesh together in Hungary. His wife also qualified but lost in the first round. Therefore, it is possible that he used the grant money from the Government of India for his wife’s training." Phogat defended her coach by saying: “And which team did I not train with? No one asked me what I did or who I was with. If you were really expecting a gold, then shouldn’t my long term physio Purnima have been there? (My coach) Woller travelled with me, to help me, stayed with me in Lucknow when his one-year-old son was in Budapest. When COVID hit, he continued training and motivated me when the Olympics was postponed. He did not care about his personal life. How can you blame that person?" Vinesh also revealed Woller's reaction when she crashed out of the Tokyo Olympics. “Woller did everything. He didn’t stop crying when I lost. His wife didn’t stop crying. She’s a 4-time Olympian, and was only of help to my training being from a higher weight category. I’ve won these last three years with the same support staff," she said. Vinesh also revealed her broken state ever since crashing out of the Tokyo Olympics. She said: “I slept once since I reached home. I slept for two hours on the flight and sometimes in the Village. There, I would walk alone and drink coffee. I was alone. When the sun would rise, I felt sleepy." “I never said make me a contender for gold. I am wrestling for myself and I was the first to feel awful after losing, but let me do it. Leave me alone." “I don’t know when I will return (to the mat). Maybe I won’t. I feel I was better off with that broken leg. I had something to correct. Now my body is not broken, but I’m truly broken," she concluded.

Tokyo Olympics - 'I’m truly broken': Vinesh Phogat breaks silence after WFI suspension

<p>The North Korean state television aired recorded footage of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Tuesday (August 10), which is almost two days after the Games were concluded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the local media reports, Korean Central Television (KCTV) aired 70 minutes of a women's football group stage match between the United Kingdom and Chile, which was played on July 21.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is still not clear how the footage was obtained, but the reports have mentioned that the video was without any commentary and the quality was also poor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another match between China and Brazil was also expected to air, but there is no information available yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/british-olympic-silver-medallist-cj-ujah-suspended-for-alleged-doping-405069">British Olympic silver medallist CJ Ujah suspended for alleged doping</a></strong></p>

<p>However, for North Korea, it is not unusual for such delays in the coverage of the Olympics or other international sports. Most of the time, the events are delayed by weeks and sometimes even by years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, the state-run media covered the games four days after the opening ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is imperative to note that North Korea did not send any delegation to the Tokyo Games citing the threat posed by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. A website for the nation's Ministry of Sport had mentioned that North Korea would not compete to protect its athletes "from the global public health crisis."&nbsp;</p>

<p>This happened for the first time in 33 years, as previously North Korea skipped the Summer Olympics in 1988. Although, as a nation, the athletes have performed well at Olympics, winning 57 medals including 16 golds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Tokyo Olympics 2020 concluded on August 8 as one of the "most challenging" Games in history owing to not one, but multiple uncertainties the multi-sport event faced, such as the Covid pandemic, brutal temperatures, etc.&nbsp;</p>


The North Korean state television aired recorded footage of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Tuesday (August 10), which is almost two days after the Games were concluded.

The North Korean state television aired recorded footage of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Tuesday (August 10), which is almost two days after the Games were concluded. As per the local media reports, Korean Central Television (KCTV) aired 70 minutes of a women's football group stage match between the United Kingdom and Chile, which was played on July 21. It is still not clear how the footage was obtained, but the reports have mentioned that the video was without any commentary and the quality was also poor. Another match between China and Brazil was also expected to air, but there is no information available yet. ALSO READ | British Olympic silver medallist CJ Ujah suspended for alleged doping However, for North Korea, it is not unusual for such delays in the coverage of the Olympics or other international sports. Most of the time, the events are delayed by weeks and sometimes even by years. During the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, the state-run media covered the games four days after the opening ceremony. It is imperative to note that North Korea did not send any delegation to the Tokyo Games citing the threat posed by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. A website for the nation's Ministry of Sport had mentioned that North Korea would not compete to protect its athletes "from the global public health crisis." This happened for the first time in 33 years, as previously North Korea skipped the Summer Olympics in 1988. Although, as a nation, the athletes have performed well at Olympics, winning 57 medals including 16 golds. The Tokyo Olympics 2020 concluded on August 8 as one of the "most challenging" Games in history owing to not one, but multiple uncertainties the multi-sport event faced, such as the Covid pandemic, brutal temperatures, etc.

Out of touch: North Korea's state TV airs Tokyo Olympics match days after closing ceremony

<p>The Wrestling Federation of India temporarily suspended star grappler Vinesh Phogat for indiscipline during her Tokyo Olympics crusade. The authority has given a notice to Vinesh on three counts and she has time until August 16 to answer the notice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vinesh Phogat, who smashed out of the Olympics subsequent to losing to Belarus' Vanesa Kaladzinskaya, didn't remain at the Olympics village and refused to wear a wrestling singlet with the team sponsor's logo.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-75th-independence-day-from-olympics-to-cricket-when-free-india-shined-in-the-world-of-sports-404891" hreflang="en">India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports</a></p>

<p>While Vinesh Phogat wasn't staying with the Indian group in Tokyo, she was available in the Games Village and adhering to the schedule given to her.</p>

<p>There is no standard that expresses that she expected to train with her colleagues. However,&nbsp;not wearing the authority Olympics-supported singlet, was a breach of the agreement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before the beginning of her Olympics crusade, Vinesh Phogat had communicated disappointment at not being permitted a physiotherapist to go with her and different competitors to the Games.</p>

<p>"Is it a crime to ask for one Physiotherapist for four women wrestlers when there are instances of one athlete having multiple coaches/ Staff? Where is the balance? We have asked for a Physio long back and not at the last moment as reported,"&nbsp;Vinesh Phogat had tweeted last month.</p>

<p>Vinesh, who had gone to Tokyo from Hungary, moreover caused a commotion when she was assigned a room close to the rooms of her India partners Anshu Malik, Sonam Malik, and Seema Bisla. She argued that she may contract COVID-19 as these wrestlers had made a trip to Tokyo from India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/football-here-is-how-much-lionel-messi-will-be-%20making-at-paris-saint-germain-check-out-the-mind-blowing-figures-404840" hreflang="en">Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures</a></p>

<p>Vinesh Phogat was one of India's medal prospects at the Games yet experienced a shocking rout because of Belarus' Kaladzinskaya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She got knocked out in the quarterfinals of the Olympics to Vanesa Kaladzinskaya of Belarus by fall.</p>

<p>A couple of months preceding this loss, the Indian had beaten a similar adversary by fall. This outcome was important for a run when Vinesh won numerous competitions in 2021 and had acquired herself the top seed in the 53-kg wrestling classification for the Olympics. She won bronze at the 2019 World Championships, gold at the 2018 Asian Games, and is a two-time Commonwealth Games champion.</p>


The Wrestling Federation of India temporarily suspended star grappler Vinesh Phogat for indiscipline during her Tokyo Olympics crusade. The authority has given a notice to Vinesh on three counts and she has time until August 16 to answer the notice.

The Wrestling Federation of India temporarily suspended star grappler Vinesh Phogat for indiscipline during her Tokyo Olympics crusade. The authority has given a notice to Vinesh on three counts and she has time until August 16 to answer the notice. Vinesh Phogat, who smashed out of the Olympics subsequent to losing to Belarus' Vanesa Kaladzinskaya, didn't remain at the Olympics village and refused to wear a wrestling singlet with the team sponsor's logo. IN PICS: India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports While Vinesh Phogat wasn't staying with the Indian group in Tokyo, she was available in the Games Village and adhering to the schedule given to her. There is no standard that expresses that she expected to train with her colleagues. However, not wearing the authority Olympics-supported singlet, was a breach of the agreement. Before the beginning of her Olympics crusade, Vinesh Phogat had communicated disappointment at not being permitted a physiotherapist to go with her and different competitors to the Games. "Is it a crime to ask for one Physiotherapist for four women wrestlers when there are instances of one athlete having multiple coaches/ Staff? Where is the balance? We have asked for a Physio long back and not at the last moment as reported," Vinesh Phogat had tweeted last month. Vinesh, who had gone to Tokyo from Hungary, moreover caused a commotion when she was assigned a room close to the rooms of her India partners Anshu Malik, Sonam Malik, and Seema Bisla. She argued that she may contract COVID-19 as these wrestlers had made a trip to Tokyo from India. ALSO READ: Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures Vinesh Phogat was one of India's medal prospects at the Games yet experienced a shocking rout because of Belarus' Kaladzinskaya. She got knocked out in the quarterfinals of the Olympics to Vanesa Kaladzinskaya of Belarus by fall. A couple of months preceding this loss, the Indian had beaten a similar adversary by fall. This outcome was important for a run when Vinesh won numerous competitions in 2021 and had acquired herself the top seed in the 53-kg wrestling classification for the Olympics. She won bronze at the 2019 World Championships, gold at the 2018 Asian Games, and is a two-time Commonwealth Games champion.

Tokyo Olympics: Vinesh Phogat 'suspended' by Wrestling Federation of India

<p>The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has labelled the government of South Australia "cruel and uncaring" for imposing an extra two-week quarantine for athletes returning to the state from the Tokyo Games, meaning they must self-isolate for 28 days.<br />
<br />
International arrivals to Australia must isolate for 14 days at quarantine hotels or other special facilities as part of COVID-19 restrictions.<br />
<br />
South Australia (SA) is imposing an additional 14-day home quarantine requirement for arrivals from Australia`s eastern states of Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales which are battling COVID-19 outbreaks.<br />
<br />
The AOC said SA had turned down its request for an exemption from the extra quarantine period.<br />
<br />
"While other countries are celebrating the return of their athletes, we are subjecting ours to the most cruel and uncaring treatment," AOC Chief Executive Matt Carroll said in a statement on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
"They are being punished for proudly representing their country with distinction at the Olympic Games."<br />
<br />
An SA government spokesperson was unable to provide immediate comment but reiterated the state`s quarantine rule.<br />
<br />
The AOC said 56 members of the Australian Olympic team were returning to SA and 16 were already undergoing quarantine in the New South Wales capital Sydney.<br />
<br />
"Not only are our Olympians fully vaccinated, but they have also been living in a highly controlled bubble in Tokyo, taking the utmost precautions -- tested daily over many weeks," said Carroll.<br />
<br />
"We have received no explanation as to why our application on behalf of these athletes has been rejected."<br />
<br />
The Australian Institute of Sports` Chief Medical Officer David Hughes said the extra quarantine period could not be scientifically justified and posed a significant risk to the physical and mental wellbeing of individuals affected.<br />
<br />
Through a combination of strict travel and border controls and snap lockdowns, Australia has fared better than many other developed countries during the pandemic, recording fewer than 37,000 COVID-19 cases and a death toll under 1,000.</p>


The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has labelled the government of South Australia "cruel and uncaring" for imposing an extra two-week quarantine for athletes returning to the state from the Tokyo Games, meaning they must self-isolate for 28 days.

The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has labelled the government of South Australia "cruel and uncaring" for imposing an extra two-week quarantine for athletes returning to the state from the Tokyo Games, meaning they must self-isolate for 28 days. International arrivals to Australia must isolate for 14 days at quarantine hotels or other special facilities as part of COVID-19 restrictions. South Australia (SA) is imposing an additional 14-day home quarantine requirement for arrivals from Australia`s eastern states of Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales which are battling COVID-19 outbreaks. The AOC said SA had turned down its request for an exemption from the extra quarantine period. "While other countries are celebrating the return of their athletes, we are subjecting ours to the most cruel and uncaring treatment," AOC Chief Executive Matt Carroll said in a statement on Wednesday. "They are being punished for proudly representing their country with distinction at the Olympic Games." An SA government spokesperson was unable to provide immediate comment but reiterated the state`s quarantine rule. The AOC said 56 members of the Australian Olympic team were returning to SA and 16 were already undergoing quarantine in the New South Wales capital Sydney. "Not only are our Olympians fully vaccinated, but they have also been living in a highly controlled bubble in Tokyo, taking the utmost precautions -- tested daily over many weeks," said Carroll. "We have received no explanation as to why our application on behalf of these athletes has been rejected." The Australian Institute of Sports` Chief Medical Officer David Hughes said the extra quarantine period could not be scientifically justified and posed a significant risk to the physical and mental wellbeing of individuals affected. Through a combination of strict travel and border controls and snap lockdowns, Australia has fared better than many other developed countries during the pandemic, recording fewer than 37,000 COVID-19 cases and a death toll under 1,000.

Olympic body lambasts 'cruel' 28-day quarantine for athletes returning to South Australia

<p>Mattel, the toy company that manufactures Barbie dolls, is facing heavy criticism on social media over the latest collection of dolls dedicated to the Tokyo Olympics for not including Asian Barbie. As per Mattel's official statement, the toy-making company said that they collaborated with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Tokyo 2020 to create the Olympic-themed dolls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement further added that the latest product line of Olympic-inspired Barbies highlights "inclusivity and innovation" and reflects the five new sports added to Tokyo Games — which was baseball/softball, sport climbing, karate, skateboarding and surfing. The aim was to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans around the world.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"Tokyo 2020 is a monumental event that brings the world together through sport and inspires fans of all ages," said Janet Hsu, Chief Franchise Officer of Mattel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Mattel Tokyo 2020 Collection honours these sports and inspires a new generation through the Olympic spirit and outstanding athletic tradition," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Barbie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Barbie</a> is committed to empowering girls to participate in sports by capturing the fun and friendship of the season, and inspiring kids to find the athlete within.🏅 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YouCanBeAnything?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YouCanBeAnything</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://t.co/MFjn2ZhfvW">https://t.co/MFjn2ZhfvW</a> <a href="https://t.co/XftIDTaZMo">pic.twitter.com/XftIDTaZMo</a></p>
— Barbie (@Barbie) <a href="https://twitter.com/Barbie/status/1420437588406685700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bhavani-devis-efforts-to-neeraj-chopras-gold-historic-firsts-and-some-shining-moments-of-india-at-tokyo-olympics-404251">Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p>The caption of the Barbie's post read, "#Barbie is committed to empowering girls to participate in sports by capturing the fun and friendship of the season, and inspiring kids to find the athlete within."</p>

<p>However, social media users have expressed their disappointment over the image that was shared on Twitter and Instagram. Some of the users were furious over the omission of an Asian doll, especially as the Games were held in an Asian city, Tokyo. Some users pointed out that one of the dolls "has Asian features".&nbsp;</p>

<p>One user wrote, "Wow. Wordless. Olympics in an Asian country yet zero attempt to represent any Asians in your collection. Shame on you @Barbie". Another chimed in and said, "EPIC FAIL. What happen to being “Inclusive”. Where is the Asian Barbie ?!?!? You are part of the problem. The Olympics is happening in Tokyo, an asian country. I know you can do better than this. Very disappointed."</p>

<p>"So disappointing that by trying to be inclusive you exclude almost 60% of the world's population as well as that of the host country. Many of the top female athletes in the Olympics are asian. This was not an oversight but blatant racism," wrote one of the users.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">According to Mattel you can can anything , but ASIAN if you want to be included. The Olympics is literally happening in Asia. An Asian countries has the most gold medals. An Asian-American won gold in one of the biggest and most poplar event. Talk about tone deaf. Do much better!</p>
— Allen Chan (@achan0501) <a href="https://twitter.com/achan0501/status/1423457089255395330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Where’s the Asian Barbie?? They are generally hard to find but you would think Olympics would include! My daughter is half Asian &amp; I keep debating if she will ever play with Barbie. This just proves to me that Disney Princess is the way better choice! <a href="https://twitter.com/Hasbro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Hasbro</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DisneyStudios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DisneyStudios</a></p>
— Amanda Tran (@awadds) <a href="https://twitter.com/awadds/status/1423824206920404998?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You can't have a doll representing the Olympics and Not include a doll of Asian Quality! The sports held Tokoyo why not include a doll from that country? Instead of 2 blonde, it should one and a Asian doll. Period! How fair is it to them?</p>
— Kisha (@Kisha45134780) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kisha45134780/status/1424822504556797953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Major failure! Where is the doll that looks Asian? Especially Olympic 2020 is taking place in Japan which is an Asian country. <a href="https://twitter.com/Mattel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mattel</a> this is a disaster, whether it’s accidental or intentional.</p>
— Mellie (@mesyndaily) <a href="https://twitter.com/mesyndaily/status/1423838163223650305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is an Asian Barbie. They got screamed at for making an Asian Barbie look “too Asian”. Now this one isn’t Asian enough. They can’t win. Someone is always offended. <a href="https://t.co/d3jHSDlM7U">pic.twitter.com/d3jHSDlM7U</a></p>
— Just the Facts Ma’am (@tell_me_girl) <a href="https://twitter.com/tell_me_girl/status/1424806229050806278?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>So far, there's no response from the toy making company.&nbsp;</p>


Mattel, the toy company that manufactures Barbie dolls, is facing heavy criticism on social media over the latest collection of dolls dedicated to the Tokyo Olympics for not including Asian Barbie.

Mattel, the toy company that manufactures Barbie dolls, is facing heavy criticism on social media over the latest collection of dolls dedicated to the Tokyo Olympics for not including Asian Barbie. As per Mattel's official statement, the toy-making company said that they collaborated with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Tokyo 2020 to create the Olympic-themed dolls. The statement further added that the latest product line of Olympic-inspired Barbies highlights "inclusivity and innovation" and reflects the five new sports added to Tokyo Games — which was baseball/softball, sport climbing, karate, skateboarding and surfing. The aim was to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans around the world. IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list "Tokyo 2020 is a monumental event that brings the world together through sport and inspires fans of all ages," said Janet Hsu, Chief Franchise Officer of Mattel. "The Mattel Tokyo 2020 Collection honours these sports and inspires a new generation through the Olympic spirit and outstanding athletic tradition," he added. #Barbie is committed to empowering girls to participate in sports by capturing the fun and friendship of the season, and inspiring kids to find the athlete within.🏅 #YouCanBeAnything #tokyo2020 #Olympics https://t.co/MFjn2ZhfvW pic.twitter.com/XftIDTaZMo — Barbie (@Barbie) July 28, 2021 × IN PICS | Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics The caption of the Barbie's post read, "#Barbie is committed to empowering girls to participate in sports by capturing the fun and friendship of the season, and inspiring kids to find the athlete within." However, social media users have expressed their disappointment over the image that was shared on Twitter and Instagram. Some of the users were furious over the omission of an Asian doll, especially as the Games were held in an Asian city, Tokyo. Some users pointed out that one of the dolls "has Asian features". One user wrote, "Wow. Wordless. Olympics in an Asian country yet zero attempt to represent any Asians in your collection. Shame on you @Barbie". Another chimed in and said, "EPIC FAIL. What happen to being “Inclusive”. Where is the Asian Barbie ?!?!? You are part of the problem. The Olympics is happening in Tokyo, an asian country. I know you can do better than this. Very disappointed." "So disappointing that by trying to be inclusive you exclude almost 60% of the world's population as well as that of the host country. Many of the top female athletes in the Olympics are asian. This was not an oversight but blatant racism," wrote one of the users. According to Mattel you can can anything , but ASIAN if you want to be included. The Olympics is literally happening in Asia. An Asian countries has the most gold medals. An Asian-American won gold in one of the biggest and most poplar event. Talk about tone deaf. Do much better! — Allen Chan (@achan0501) August 6, 2021 × Where’s the Asian Barbie?? They are generally hard to find but you would think Olympics would include! My daughter is half Asian & I keep debating if she will ever play with Barbie. This just proves to me that Disney Princess is the way better choice! @Hasbro @DisneyStudios — Amanda Tran (@awadds) August 7, 2021 × You can't have a doll representing the Olympics and Not include a doll of Asian Quality! The sports held Tokoyo why not include a doll from that country? Instead of 2 blonde, it should one and a Asian doll. Period! How fair is it to them? — Kisha (@Kisha45134780) August 9, 2021 × Major failure! Where is the doll that looks Asian? Especially Olympic 2020 is taking place in Japan which is an Asian country. @Mattel this is a disaster, whether it’s accidental or intentional. — Mellie (@mesyndaily) August 7, 2021 × This is an Asian Barbie. They got screamed at for making an Asian Barbie look “too Asian”. Now this one isn’t Asian enough. They can’t win. Someone is always offended. pic.twitter.com/d3jHSDlM7U — Just the Facts Ma’am (@tell_me_girl) August 9, 2021 × So far, there's no response from the toy making company.

Where are the Asians? Barbie slammed as Tokyo Olympics-themed dolls seem not to include an entire community

<p>As the entire nation is basking in the glory of India's best-ever medal haul at Olympics, including a gold medal in athletics at Tokyo Games 2020, a piece of&nbsp;news went viral. Pinky Karmakar, who was once an Olympic torchbearer, is currently working as a daily wage labourer in Assam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On one hand, Indian athletes received a grand welcome with cash rewards, cars, jobs etc upon their arrival from Tokyo, Pinky Karmakar opened up about struggles she has been facing as her "dreams have been shattered".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pinky Karmakar represented India as a torchbearer in the 2012 London Olympics, where India bagged a total of six medals — Sushil Kumar (Silver), Saina Nehwal (Bronze), Mary Kom (Bronze), Vijay Kumar (Silver), Gagan Narang (Bronze), Yogeshwar Dutt (Bronze).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bhavani-devis-efforts-to-neeraj-chopras-gold-historic-firsts-and-some-shining-moments-of-india-at-tokyo-olympics-404251">Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympic</a></strong></p>

<p>During an interaction with ANI, Pinky Karmakar said, "I represented India as a torchbearer in the 2012 London Olympics. I work as a daily wager at a tea garden in Dibrugarh."</p>

<p>"I didn't get enough facilities from the government. I don't understand why. I was selected by UNICEF. My dreams have been shattered," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The then 17-year-old was studying in Class 10 when she represented India at the London Olympics. She used to run UNICEF's Sports for Development (S4D) program in her school and teach about 40 women and was also an advocate of adult literacy.</p>

<p>"When I was 17-year-old and was studying in Class 10, I used to run a program in my school and teach about women there. It got sponsored by UNICEF," she said.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/with-three-gold-medals-in-hockey-heres-how-india-fared-at-olympics-games-before-independence-404310">With three gold medals in hockey, here's how India fared at Olympics Games before independence</a></strong></p>

<p>She further added, "My family is facing several financial constraints due to which I cannot afford several sports equipment. If I would have got enough facilities, I would also have had represented India in Olympics."</p>

<p>Pinky is currently working as a daily wage labourer at Borborooah tea garden. She is helping her family by supporting them financially as a daily wage labourer at a tea garden in her district.</p>

<p>Indian contingent returned from the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics, where India marked its best-ever finish with seven medals, including a gold by javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>With an 87.58 metres throw, Neeraj scripted history after winning a gold medal. It was India's first athletics gold medal at the Olympics Games. He became only the second individual Olympic gold medalist for India after Abhinav Bindra won shooting gold in 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Neeraj Chopra's interview:</strong></p>

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<p><strong>IN PICS |&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">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>For India, the medal winners are Neeraj Chopra (Gold), Ravi Kumar (Silver), Mirabai Chanu (Silver), Bajrang Punia (Bronze), PV Sindhu (Bronze), Lovlina Borgohain (Bronze) and the men's hockey team (Bronze).&nbsp;</p>


As the entire nation is basking in the glory of India's best-ever medal haul at Olympics, including a gold medal in athletics at Tokyo Games 2020, a piece of news went viral.

As the entire nation is basking in the glory of India's best-ever medal haul at Olympics, including a gold medal in athletics at Tokyo Games 2020, a piece of news went viral. Pinky Karmakar, who was once an Olympic torchbearer, is currently working as a daily wage labourer in Assam. On one hand, Indian athletes received a grand welcome with cash rewards, cars, jobs etc upon their arrival from Tokyo, Pinky Karmakar opened up about struggles she has been facing as her "dreams have been shattered". Pinky Karmakar represented India as a torchbearer in the 2012 London Olympics, where India bagged a total of six medals — Sushil Kumar (Silver), Saina Nehwal (Bronze), Mary Kom (Bronze), Vijay Kumar (Silver), Gagan Narang (Bronze), Yogeshwar Dutt (Bronze). IN PICS | Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympic During an interaction with ANI, Pinky Karmakar said, "I represented India as a torchbearer in the 2012 London Olympics. I work as a daily wager at a tea garden in Dibrugarh." "I didn't get enough facilities from the government. I don't understand why. I was selected by UNICEF. My dreams have been shattered," she added. The then 17-year-old was studying in Class 10 when she represented India at the London Olympics. She used to run UNICEF's Sports for Development (S4D) program in her school and teach about 40 women and was also an advocate of adult literacy. "When I was 17-year-old and was studying in Class 10, I used to run a program in my school and teach about women there. It got sponsored by UNICEF," she said. IN PICS | With three gold medals in hockey, here's how India fared at Olympics Games before independence She further added, "My family is facing several financial constraints due to which I cannot afford several sports equipment. If I would have got enough facilities, I would also have had represented India in Olympics." Pinky is currently working as a daily wage labourer at Borborooah tea garden. She is helping her family by supporting them financially as a daily wage labourer at a tea garden in her district. Indian contingent returned from the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics, where India marked its best-ever finish with seven medals, including a gold by javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra. With an 87.58 metres throw, Neeraj scripted history after winning a gold medal. It was India's first athletics gold medal at the Olympics Games. He became only the second individual Olympic gold medalist for India after Abhinav Bindra won shooting gold in 2008. Neeraj Chopra's interview: × IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list For India, the medal winners are Neeraj Chopra (Gold), Ravi Kumar (Silver), Mirabai Chanu (Silver), Bajrang Punia (Bronze), PV Sindhu (Bronze), Lovlina Borgohain (Bronze) and the men's hockey team (Bronze).

Pinky Karmakar, once an Olympic torchbearer now works as a daily wage labourer in Assam

<p>US viewership for the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, a competition clouded by the COVID-19 pandemic, dropped to about half the audience for the London Games in 2012, according to data released by Comcast Corp's NBCUniversal on Monday.<br />
<br />
The event averaged 15.5 million primetime viewers on the NBC broadcast network and digital platforms including the Peacock streaming service, the company said in a statement. That represented the smallest audience for the Summer Games since NBC began broadcasting them in 1988.<br />
<br />
The total slumped below the 31.1 million viewers who watched the Summer Olympics in London via TV and online outlets, and 26.7 million who tuned in for the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro, an NBC spokesman said.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bhavani-devis-efforts-to-neeraj-chopras-gold-historic-firsts-and-some-shining-moments-of-india-at-tokyo-olympics-404251">Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p>Comparisons with previous Olympic Games are imperfect given the different times zones, the pandemic and fewer streaming options in the past. The Tokyo events, delayed a year due to the global health crisis, were held without spectators and offered less of the usual spectacle.<br />
<br />
Executives at NBCUniversal have said they expect to turn a profit despite the ratings declines. The competitions still pulled in the biggest audiences on television when they aired, making them attractive showcases for advertisers.<br />
<br />
"There is nothing more powerful in media than the 17 straight days of Olympics dominance," NBC Sports Chairman Pete Bevacqua said in a statement. "Despite being thrown a series of curveballs over the last 18 months, the power of the Olympics delivered to audiences across the various platforms of NBCU has proven itself unequaled."</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/with-three-gold-medals-in-hockey-heres-how-india-fared-at-olympics-games-before-independence-404310">With three gold medals in hockey, here's how India fared at Olympics Games before independence</a></strong></p>

<p>The company said viewers streamed nearly 6 billion minutes of Tokyo Olympics programming, a record for an Olympics, across NBC's digital and social media platforms, the company said.<br />
<br />
NBCUniversal aired the Games across two broadcast networks, six cable networks, and multiple digital platforms including Peacock. That left some viewers confused and struggling to find the events they wanted to watch.<br />
<br />
Some high-profile athletes were absent from major events. US&nbsp;superstar gymnast Simone Biles pulled out of five of her six events, citing concerns for her mental and physical health, and American sprinter Sha`Karri Richardson was disqualified after testing positive for marijuana.<br />
<br />
The TV ratings drop reflects a trend among live events, including Hollywood awards shows and sports championships.<br />
<br />
NBC owns the US&nbsp;media rights to the Olympics through 2032. The next games, the Winter Olympics in Beijing, take place in February 2022.</p>


US viewership for the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, a competition clouded by the COVID-19 pandemic, dropped to about half the audience for the London Games in 2012, according to data released by Comcast Corp's NBCUniversal on Monday.

US viewership for the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, a competition clouded by the COVID-19 pandemic, dropped to about half the audience for the London Games in 2012, according to data released by Comcast Corp's NBCUniversal on Monday. The event averaged 15.5 million primetime viewers on the NBC broadcast network and digital platforms including the Peacock streaming service, the company said in a statement. That represented the smallest audience for the Summer Games since NBC began broadcasting them in 1988. The total slumped below the 31.1 million viewers who watched the Summer Olympics in London via TV and online outlets, and 26.7 million who tuned in for the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro, an NBC spokesman said. IN PICS | Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics Comparisons with previous Olympic Games are imperfect given the different times zones, the pandemic and fewer streaming options in the past. The Tokyo events, delayed a year due to the global health crisis, were held without spectators and offered less of the usual spectacle. Executives at NBCUniversal have said they expect to turn a profit despite the ratings declines. The competitions still pulled in the biggest audiences on television when they aired, making them attractive showcases for advertisers. "There is nothing more powerful in media than the 17 straight days of Olympics dominance," NBC Sports Chairman Pete Bevacqua said in a statement. "Despite being thrown a series of curveballs over the last 18 months, the power of the Olympics delivered to audiences across the various platforms of NBCU has proven itself unequaled." IN PICS | With three gold medals in hockey, here's how India fared at Olympics Games before independence The company said viewers streamed nearly 6 billion minutes of Tokyo Olympics programming, a record for an Olympics, across NBC's digital and social media platforms, the company said. NBCUniversal aired the Games across two broadcast networks, six cable networks, and multiple digital platforms including Peacock. That left some viewers confused and struggling to find the events they wanted to watch. Some high-profile athletes were absent from major events. US superstar gymnast Simone Biles pulled out of five of her six events, citing concerns for her mental and physical health, and American sprinter Sha`Karri Richardson was disqualified after testing positive for marijuana. The TV ratings drop reflects a trend among live events, including Hollywood awards shows and sports championships. NBC owns the US media rights to the Olympics through 2032. The next games, the Winter Olympics in Beijing, take place in February 2022.

US ratings for Tokyo Olympics plunge to half of 2012 Games

<p>Tokyo awoke to a huge bill and soaring coronavirus cases on Monday after pulling off a mid-pandemic Olympics that at times looked impossible and had a mixed reception to the end.</p>

<p>Olympic officials have been predictably bullish, saying the Games offered hope and uplifting moments, and went off without any major coronavirus outbreaks.</p>

<p>"These Olympic Games have been a powerful demonstration of the unifying power of sport," International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach said at his closing press conference.</p>

<p>But it will take longer for&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;to reckon with a Games that were highly controversial and unfolded as virus cases exploded in Tokyo and elsewhere.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&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">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Asahi Shimbun daily, which had called for cancellation despite being a sponsor of the Games, said the nearly $15 billion event was a "gamble" with people's lives.</p>

<p>"This gamble went ahead, making the situation worse," it said on Monday.</p>

<p>A poll conducted by the paper over the last two days of the Games found 56 percent of Japanese supported holding the event, with 32 percent opposed. Just 32 percent said they felt the Games were "safe and secure", with 54 percent unconvinced.</p>

<p>Tokyo's 2020 Olympics were unlike any other, starting with last year's historic postponement that upturned years of planning for athletes.</p>

<p>Restrictions at the Games themselves meant masks for all, cheering for none, and fans banned from almost all venues for the first time.</p>

<p><strong>'High praise'</strong></p>

<p>Despite everything, as the Games opened there were signs that&nbsp;Japan's public might be having a change of heart.</p>

<p>Thousands flocked to the Olympic Stadium for a glimpse of the opening ceremony fireworks and a chance to take their photo in front of the Olympic rings.</p>

<p>When the sport got under way, people defied requests to stay away from events held on public roads, and snapped up Olympic merchandise in stores across&nbsp;Japan.</p>

<p>"If you see these athletes running in front of you, you can't help but cheer for them," Hirochika Tadeda told AFP along the route of the triathlon, which passed in front of his home.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sustainable-development-report-ranks-australia-last-on-climate-action-395157">Sustainable development report ranks Australia last on climate action</a></strong></p>

<p>Tributes to the athletes were a key theme of editorials in&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;on Monday, with the Yomiuri Shimbun offering "high praise for competitions into which they poured all their efforts."</p>

<p>There had been concerns about what the pandemic and the postponement would mean for sport at the Games.</p>

<p>But despite some high-profile disappointments, performances remained impressive, with world records broken and the successful introduction of several new sports including skateboarding and surfing.</p>

<p>The coronavirus cast a long shadow over the Games from the start, and several athletes' Olympic dreams were shattered by the results of a PCR test.</p>

<p>Most though were just happy the Games went ahead at all.</p>

<p>"Mid-pandemic they successfully held an amazing Olympics. Always greeting us with a smile and so much kindness. Thank you," wrote Australian footballer Alanna Kennedy on Twitter.</p>

<p><strong>'Brightened the world'</strong></p>

<p>"The Games have been held in the most challenging circumstances imaginable and the organisers have excelled," added Hugh Robertson, chairman of the British Olympic Association.</p>

<p>The Olympics were also a triumph for Japanese sport, with a record 27 gold medals in everything from baseball to skateboarding.</p>

<p>Japanese Olympic officials said they felt the gold rush drove public support for the Games, pointing to the families who brought children to venues to cheer outside or hung flags in their windows.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bhavani-devis-efforts-to-neeraj-chopras-gold-historic-firsts-and-some-shining-moments-of-india-at-tokyo-olympics-404251">Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p>But behind the cheering, there is a looming sense of crisis over the sharp rise in virus cases during the Games.</p>

<p>Tokyo and many other parts of the country are under virus state of emergency, and only around a third of the country is fully vaccinated as the Delta variant fuels surging infections.</p>

<p>The issue could weigh on Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's political future, as he faces a leadership race and then a general election by October.</p>

<p>For some though, the sporting highlights swept away concerns about the pandemic.</p>

<p>"It's true that I was a little worried," 21-year-old university student Reita Goto told AFP.</p>

<p>"But in the end the Olympics has brightened up not only&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;but also the world."</p>


Tokyo awoke to a huge bill and soaring coronavirus cases on Monday after pulling off a mid-pandemic Olympics that at times looked impossible and had a mixed reception to the end.

Tokyo awoke to a huge bill and soaring coronavirus cases on Monday after pulling off a mid-pandemic Olympics that at times looked impossible and had a mixed reception to the end. Olympic officials have been predictably bullish, saying the Games offered hope and uplifting moments, and went off without any major coronavirus outbreaks. "These Olympic Games have been a powerful demonstration of the unifying power of sport," International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach said at his closing press conference. But it will take longer for Japan to reckon with a Games that were highly controversial and unfolded as virus cases exploded in Tokyo and elsewhere. IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list The Asahi Shimbun daily, which had called for cancellation despite being a sponsor of the Games, said the nearly $15 billion event was a "gamble" with people's lives. "This gamble went ahead, making the situation worse," it said on Monday. A poll conducted by the paper over the last two days of the Games found 56 percent of Japanese supported holding the event, with 32 percent opposed. Just 32 percent said they felt the Games were "safe and secure", with 54 percent unconvinced. Tokyo's 2020 Olympics were unlike any other, starting with last year's historic postponement that upturned years of planning for athletes. Restrictions at the Games themselves meant masks for all, cheering for none, and fans banned from almost all venues for the first time. 'High praise' Despite everything, as the Games opened there were signs that Japan's public might be having a change of heart. Thousands flocked to the Olympic Stadium for a glimpse of the opening ceremony fireworks and a chance to take their photo in front of the Olympic rings. When the sport got under way, people defied requests to stay away from events held on public roads, and snapped up Olympic merchandise in stores across Japan. "If you see these athletes running in front of you, you can't help but cheer for them," Hirochika Tadeda told AFP along the route of the triathlon, which passed in front of his home. ALSO READ | Sustainable development report ranks Australia last on climate action Tributes to the athletes were a key theme of editorials in Japan on Monday, with the Yomiuri Shimbun offering "high praise for competitions into which they poured all their efforts." There had been concerns about what the pandemic and the postponement would mean for sport at the Games. But despite some high-profile disappointments, performances remained impressive, with world records broken and the successful introduction of several new sports including skateboarding and surfing. The coronavirus cast a long shadow over the Games from the start, and several athletes' Olympic dreams were shattered by the results of a PCR test. Most though were just happy the Games went ahead at all. "Mid-pandemic they successfully held an amazing Olympics. Always greeting us with a smile and so much kindness. Thank you," wrote Australian footballer Alanna Kennedy on Twitter. 'Brightened the world' "The Games have been held in the most challenging circumstances imaginable and the organisers have excelled," added Hugh Robertson, chairman of the British Olympic Association. The Olympics were also a triumph for Japanese sport, with a record 27 gold medals in everything from baseball to skateboarding. Japanese Olympic officials said they felt the gold rush drove public support for the Games, pointing to the families who brought children to venues to cheer outside or hung flags in their windows. IN PICS | Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics But behind the cheering, there is a looming sense of crisis over the sharp rise in virus cases during the Games. Tokyo and many other parts of the country are under virus state of emergency, and only around a third of the country is fully vaccinated as the Delta variant fuels surging infections. The issue could weigh on Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's political future, as he faces a leadership race and then a general election by October. For some though, the sporting highlights swept away concerns about the pandemic. "It's true that I was a little worried," 21-year-old university student Reita Goto told AFP. "But in the end the Olympics has brightened up not only Japan but also the world."

Tokyo counts cost of $15 billion pandemic Olympics 'gamble'

<p>From javelin star Neeraj Chopra to wrestling ace Bajrang Punia, Indian medal winners received a thunderous welcome after they arrived back home on Monday (August 9) from their terrific run at the Tokyo Olympics, which concluded on Sunday.</p>

<p>Neeraj Chopra, Bajrang Punia, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya and men's and women's hockey teams arrived at Delhi's Ashoka Hotel, where they were felicitated by the sports minister Anurag Thakur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tokyo Olympics was Olympics of many firsts for India. The biggest contingent, most medals won. We waited for an athletics medal for 121 years and when he did, he did win gold," the sports minister said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a mammoth 87.58 metres throw, Neeraj Chopra scripted history after winning a gold medal. It was India's first athletics gold medal at the Olympics Games. He became only the second individual Olympic gold medalist for India after Abhinav Bindra won shooting gold in 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bhavani-devis-efforts-to-neeraj-chopras-gold-historic-firsts-and-some-shining-moments-of-india-at-tokyo-olympics-404251">Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the videos here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Glimpses from the felicitation ceremony of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> Olympic Games 🇮🇳Medalists in New Delhi today.<br />
<br />
Union Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ianuragthakur</a><br />
Union Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KirenRijiju</a><br />
MoS <a href="https://twitter.com/NisithPramanik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NisithPramanik</a> <a href="https://t.co/82QSqESDMg">pic.twitter.com/82QSqESDMg</a></p>
— Office of Mr. Anurag Thakur (@Anurag_Office) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anurag_Office/status/1424741655169568775?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇮🇳INDIA’s OLYMPIC CHAMPIONS 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/0aAALhc324">pic.twitter.com/0aAALhc324</a></p>
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur/status/1424740156888649731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇮🇳's Golden boy <a href="https://twitter.com/Neeraj_chopra1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Neeraj_chopra1</a> is back from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a><br />
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The whole nation is cheering for you and we are all super proud and excited. Welcome back champ🥇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a><a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ianuragthakur</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NisithPramanik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NisithPramanik</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WeAreTeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/afiindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@afiindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Adille1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Adille1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ddsportschannel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ddsportschannel</a> <a href="https://t.co/V0fZmHJvDr">pic.twitter.com/V0fZmHJvDr</a></p>
— SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1424726132235120644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome home <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a><br />
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Our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> stars are back and 🇮🇳 has welcomed them with excitement and pride in its heart. Send in your best wishes for them with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a><a href="https://twitter.com/LovlinaBorgohai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LovlinaBorgohai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Neeraj_chopra1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Neeraj_chopra1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imranirampal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imranirampal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RaviDahiya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaviDahiya</a> <a href="https://t.co/bfOUs5TD6o">pic.twitter.com/bfOUs5TD6o</a></p>
— SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1424724385022185472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Team India excelled and inspired while Indians cheered and celebrated all around. Truly sports is a great unifier as our athletes come from villages and cities, north to south, from east to west. Their journey is an incredible story of resilience and sporting excellence," Thakur&nbsp;added.</p>

<p>He reflected on India's many firsts at Tokyo 2020, like seven&nbsp;Olympic Medals, first gold medal in an athletics event, two successive medals in consecutive Olympic Games by PV Sindhu, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We also had the first female sailor from India to qualify for the Olympics - Nethra Kumanan, first Indian fencer from India to make it to the Olympics - Bhavani Devi, the best place achieved by an Indian in Equestrian eventing - Fouaad Mirza, the best-ever finish for Indian Rowers, the highest-placed finish by an Indian in golf by Aditi and a national record was set in the steeplechase by Avinash Sable," said Thakur.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">GOLDEN🥇GREAT <a href="https://twitter.com/Neeraj_chopra1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Neeraj_chopra1</a> <a href="https://t.co/5VJlxWWUMA">pic.twitter.com/5VJlxWWUMA</a></p>
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur/status/1424747391408775175?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Let's cheer for our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> medalists with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BajrangPunia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RaviDahiya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaviDahiya</a> <a href="https://t.co/tgotlbQqQr">pic.twitter.com/tgotlbQqQr</a></p>
— SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1424765932879024133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"And let me add, the foundations of sports in India are firm; under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, various schemes such as TOPs and Khelo India have shown results ensuring podium finish. We will continue to support our sportspersons and we endeavour to make India a sporting powerhouse," he added.</p>

<p>Former Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju also praised the performances of all the athletes and reiterated that India will be a force to reckon with by the 2028 Olympics.</p>

<p>"I am thrilled beyond words to share this space with our champion athletes today. This is a historic event with India registering its best-ever performance in the Olympics. We have much to be proud of, we have a hockey medal after 41 years and a first-ever gold in athletics. And it's not just our medal winners, each athlete has put their best in Tokyo and I congratulate all of them."</p>


From javelin star Neeraj Chopra to wrestling ace Bajrang Punia, Indian medal winners received a thunderous welcome after they arrived back home on Monday (August 9) from their terrific run at the Tokyo Olympics, which concluded on Sunday.

From javelin star Neeraj Chopra to wrestling ace Bajrang Punia, Indian medal winners received a thunderous welcome after they arrived back home on Monday (August 9) from their terrific run at the Tokyo Olympics, which concluded on Sunday. Neeraj Chopra, Bajrang Punia, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya and men's and women's hockey teams arrived at Delhi's Ashoka Hotel, where they were felicitated by the sports minister Anurag Thakur. "Tokyo Olympics was Olympics of many firsts for India. The biggest contingent, most medals won. We waited for an athletics medal for 121 years and when he did, he did win gold," the sports minister said. With a mammoth 87.58 metres throw, Neeraj Chopra scripted history after winning a gold medal. It was India's first athletics gold medal at the Olympics Games. He became only the second individual Olympic gold medalist for India after Abhinav Bindra won shooting gold in 2008. IN PICS | Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics Watch the videos here: Glimpses from the felicitation ceremony of #Tokyo2020 Olympic Games 🇮🇳Medalists in New Delhi today. Union Minister @ianuragthakur Union Minister @KirenRijiju MoS @NisithPramanik pic.twitter.com/82QSqESDMg — Office of Mr. Anurag Thakur (@Anurag_Office) August 9, 2021 × 🇮🇳INDIA’s OLYMPIC CHAMPIONS 🇮🇳#Tokyo2020 #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/0aAALhc324 — Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) August 9, 2021 × 🇮🇳's Golden boy @Neeraj_chopra1 is back from #Tokyo2020 The whole nation is cheering for you and we are all super proud and excited. Welcome back champ🥇#Cheer4India #Olympics@PMOIndia @ianuragthakur @NisithPramanik @WeAreTeamIndia @afiindia @Adille1 @ddsportschannel pic.twitter.com/V0fZmHJvDr — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 9, 2021 × Welcome home #TeamIndia Our #Tokyo2020 stars are back and 🇮🇳 has welcomed them with excitement and pride in its heart. Send in your best wishes for them with #Cheer4India@LovlinaBorgohai @Neeraj_chopra1 @imranirampal #RaviDahiya pic.twitter.com/bfOUs5TD6o — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 9, 2021 × "Team India excelled and inspired while Indians cheered and celebrated all around. Truly sports is a great unifier as our athletes come from villages and cities, north to south, from east to west. Their journey is an incredible story of resilience and sporting excellence," Thakur added. He reflected on India's many firsts at Tokyo 2020, like seven Olympic Medals, first gold medal in an athletics event, two successive medals in consecutive Olympic Games by PV Sindhu, etc. "We also had the first female sailor from India to qualify for the Olympics - Nethra Kumanan, first Indian fencer from India to make it to the Olympics - Bhavani Devi, the best place achieved by an Indian in Equestrian eventing - Fouaad Mirza, the best-ever finish for Indian Rowers, the highest-placed finish by an Indian in golf by Aditi and a national record was set in the steeplechase by Avinash Sable," said Thakur. GOLDEN🥇GREAT @Neeraj_chopra1 pic.twitter.com/5VJlxWWUMA — Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) August 9, 2021 × Let's cheer for our #Tokyo2020 medalists with #Cheer4India #Olympics #TeamIndia @BajrangPunia #RaviDahiya pic.twitter.com/tgotlbQqQr — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 9, 2021 × "And let me add, the foundations of sports in India are firm; under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, various schemes such as TOPs and Khelo India have shown results ensuring podium finish. We will continue to support our sportspersons and we endeavour to make India a sporting powerhouse," he added. Former Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju also praised the performances of all the athletes and reiterated that India will be a force to reckon with by the 2028 Olympics. "I am thrilled beyond words to share this space with our champion athletes today. This is a historic event with India registering its best-ever performance in the Olympics. We have much to be proud of, we have a hockey medal after 41 years and a first-ever gold in athletics. And it's not just our medal winners, each athlete has put their best in Tokyo and I congratulate all of them."

From Neeraj Chopra to Bajrang Punia, athletes receive thunderous welcome in India, get felicitated - watch

In pictures - Thank you Tokyo!: Olympics 2020 comes to an end

1 gold, 2 silver and 4 bronze medals, Tokyo 2020 has been India's best Olympics till date. How can India improve this tally in the next games? How do we keep the medals coming? Each one of us can help. Palki Sharma tells you how.

Gravitas Plus: India's Olympic haul and the road ahead

<p>American supermodel Kendall Jenner on Saturday (local time) congratulated <a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/hollywood/news-kendall-jenner-and-devin-booker-celebrate-one-year-anniversary-share-rare-photos-391407">her boyfriend</a>, NBA superstar Devin Booker, after the US men's basketball team took home the gold medal at Tokyo Olympics 2020.<br />
<br />
Kendall took to Instagram to celebrate the win. She posted a photo of her television with a shot of her beau and captioned the snap with an emoji of a gold medal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/lifestyle/news-kendall-jenner-sued-by-italian-brand-over-breach-of-modelling-contract-402721" hreflang="en">Kendall Jenner sued by Italian brand over breach of modelling contract</a><br />
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The American team defeated France in the finals with an 87-82 victory, giving the Americans a fourth straight gold medal.`The Keeping Up with the Kardashians` star and Devin confirmed their relationship on Valentine`s Day this year when the reality TV star posted a cuddly picture with the basketball player on her Instagram story.<br />
<br />
The news of their romance first broke when the two were spotted together in April 2020 on a road trip from LA to Arizona. At the time, a source told People Magazine that they were "just friends for now, but you never know with Kendall.""What first seemed like a fun hookup is now a relationship. Her family thinks he is great. He was even invited to Kim`s 40th birthday celebration in Tahiti," the source added.<br />
<br />
Kendall, who is notoriously private about her dating life, was previously linked to Australian basketball player Ben Simmons, and American basketball player Blake Griffin.</p>


American supermodel Kendall Jenner on Saturday (local time) congratulated her boyfriend, NBA superstar Devin Booker, after the US men's basketball team took home the gold medal at Tokyo Olympics 2020.

American supermodel Kendall Jenner on Saturday (local time) congratulated her boyfriend, NBA superstar Devin Booker, after the US men's basketball team took home the gold medal at Tokyo Olympics 2020. Kendall took to Instagram to celebrate the win. She posted a photo of her television with a shot of her beau and captioned the snap with an emoji of a gold medal. Kendall Jenner sued by Italian brand over breach of modelling contract The American team defeated France in the finals with an 87-82 victory, giving the Americans a fourth straight gold medal.`The Keeping Up with the Kardashians` star and Devin confirmed their relationship on Valentine`s Day this year when the reality TV star posted a cuddly picture with the basketball player on her Instagram story. The news of their romance first broke when the two were spotted together in April 2020 on a road trip from LA to Arizona. At the time, a source told People Magazine that they were "just friends for now, but you never know with Kendall.""What first seemed like a fun hookup is now a relationship. Her family thinks he is great. He was even invited to Kim`s 40th birthday celebration in Tahiti," the source added. Kendall, who is notoriously private about her dating life, was previously linked to Australian basketball player Ben Simmons, and American basketball player Blake Griffin.

Kendall Jenner celebrates beau Devin Booker's gold medal win at Tokyo Olympics

<p>The skipper of the India cricket team Virat Kohli has praised Indian athletes for their campaign at Tokyo Olympics 2020. Virat congratulated all the winners and participants and wished them luck for the future. Virat also wrote that "winning and losing is part of the sport", but giving the best for the nation is what "matters" the most.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the 16-day event ended on Sunday (August 8), India marked its most successful Games in history by winning seven medals - one gold, two silver and four bronze. For India, the medal winners are Neeraj Chopra (Gold), Ravi Kumar (Silver), Mirabai Chanu (Silver), Bajrang Punia (Bronze), PV Sindhu (Bronze), Lovlina Borgohain (Bronze) and the men's hockey team (Bronze).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Congratulations to all our winners and participants at the Olympics. Winning and losing is a part of sport, but what matters is you gave your best for the nation. We are so proud of you and I wish you all the very best going forward. Jai Hind," wrote Virat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&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">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to all our winners and participants at the Olympics. Winning and losing is a part of sport, but what matters is you gave your best for the nation. We are so proud of you and I wish you all the very best going forward. Jai Hind. 🇮🇳🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/xHkfQVutWg">pic.twitter.com/xHkfQVutWg</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1424408145804218369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>At the Tokyo Olympics, India had sent its biggest-ever contingent to Tokyo Olympics with 126 athletes across 18 sports, out of which there were 54 female athletes. Indian athletes participated in 69 cumulative events across, which was the highest ever for the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367">From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympic</a></strong></p>

<p>Virat is currently on an England tour for a five-match Test series, of which the first ended giving no result after the match at Trent Bridge on Sunday was washed out, The play on the fifth and final day was called off due to rain and not even a single ball was bowled. Chasing 209 runs to win, India were looking good as they were 52/1 overnight and needed 157 runs to win. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli was disappointed as he said, "We were expecting rain on days three and four but it chose to come on day five. It would have been enjoyable to play and watch, but it’s a shame. This is exactly what we wanted to do; start strong. On day five we knew we had our chances. We certainly felt like we were on top of the game. Getting that lead was crucial, but it’s a shame we couldn’t finish day five. Getting to fifty overnight was important. We just didn’t want to play for survival."</p>


The skipper of the India cricket team Virat Kohli has praised Indian athletes for their campaign at Tokyo Olympics 2020. Virat congratulated all the winners and participants and wished them luck for the future.

The skipper of the India cricket team Virat Kohli has praised Indian athletes for their campaign at Tokyo Olympics 2020. Virat congratulated all the winners and participants and wished them luck for the future. Virat also wrote that "winning and losing is part of the sport", but giving the best for the nation is what "matters" the most. As the 16-day event ended on Sunday (August 8), India marked its most successful Games in history by winning seven medals - one gold, two silver and four bronze. For India, the medal winners are Neeraj Chopra (Gold), Ravi Kumar (Silver), Mirabai Chanu (Silver), Bajrang Punia (Bronze), PV Sindhu (Bronze), Lovlina Borgohain (Bronze) and the men's hockey team (Bronze). "Congratulations to all our winners and participants at the Olympics. Winning and losing is a part of sport, but what matters is you gave your best for the nation. We are so proud of you and I wish you all the very best going forward. Jai Hind," wrote Virat. IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list Congratulations to all our winners and participants at the Olympics. Winning and losing is a part of sport, but what matters is you gave your best for the nation. We are so proud of you and I wish you all the very best going forward. Jai Hind. 🇮🇳🙏#tokyo2020 #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/xHkfQVutWg — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) August 8, 2021 × At the Tokyo Olympics, India had sent its biggest-ever contingent to Tokyo Olympics with 126 athletes across 18 sports, out of which there were 54 female athletes. Indian athletes participated in 69 cumulative events across, which was the highest ever for the country. IN PICS | From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympic Virat is currently on an England tour for a five-match Test series, of which the first ended giving no result after the match at Trent Bridge on Sunday was washed out, The play on the fifth and final day was called off due to rain and not even a single ball was bowled. Chasing 209 runs to win, India were looking good as they were 52/1 overnight and needed 157 runs to win. Kohli was disappointed as he said, "We were expecting rain on days three and four but it chose to come on day five. It would have been enjoyable to play and watch, but it’s a shame. This is exactly what we wanted to do; start strong. On day five we knew we had our chances. We certainly felt like we were on top of the game. Getting that lead was crucial, but it’s a shame we couldn’t finish day five. Getting to fifty overnight was important. We just didn’t want to play for survival."

'We are so proud': Virat Kohli's message for Indian winners and participants at Tokyo Olympics

From gender-equality to the participation of trans-athletes: A list of epic firsts at Tokyo Olympics

<p>Local media report that Chinese teen diving sensation Quan Hongchan's family and neighbours are facing harassment from tourists trying to gain social media likes.</p>

<p>The 14-year-old's hometown&nbsp;Maihe village&nbsp;has been flooded with fans rushing to take video and photos ever since she won Olympic gold with&nbsp;three perfect-10 dives.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bhavani-devis-efforts-to-neeraj-chopras-gold-historic-firsts-and-some-shining-moments-of-india-at-tokyo-olympics-404251">From Bhavani Devi's efforts to Neeraj Chopra's gold: Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p>Many fans are even climbing trees just to get a better view.&nbsp;While some attempted to steal jackfruit from her home as souvenirs, others took selfies with her family.</p>

<p>People going to her house merely for followers is despicable. Her sick mother should not be disturbed, read one Weibo comment.</p>

<p>Her story touched the hearts of many people after she&nbsp;dedicated her Olympic victory to her mother, who has been hospitalized numerous times following a car accident years ago.</p>

<p>During an interview in Tokyo Quan said, that she wants to make enough money to support her mother.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-new-zealand-hails-incredible-games-after-record-medals-haul-404158">Tokyo Olympics: New Zealand hails 'incredible' Games after record medals haul</a></strong></p>

<p>Her mom's medical bills forced her to take up diving something that has garnered her a massive amount of support online.</p>

<p>A hashtag relating to Quan and her home becoming an internet hotspot was viewed more than 25 million times on Weibo, China's Twitter-like platform.</p>

<p>Influencers in Guangdong province reportedly staked out the rural village for live stream recordings even after midnight, earning criticism over the action.</p>

<p>As a result of the large crowds, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a> control measures in the village have been violated, due to which the village is now closed to visitors.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/biles-belarus-and-sports-drama-here-are-some-key-moments-of-tokyo-olympics-2020-404131">Biles, Belarus and sports drama: Here are some key moments of Tokyo Olympics 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>Her years of training prevented her from visiting a zoo or an amusement park. In response, a safari and amusement park in Guangzhou has offered free annual memberships to all Chinese diving team members.</p>

<p>China led the Olympic medal count until the final day of the Games on Sunday, when it was overtaken by the United States.</p>

<p>The Chinese social media community has closely followed the Olympic Games and the accomplishments of their athletes.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Local media report that Chinese teen diving sensation Quan Hongchan's family and neighbours are facing harassment from tourists trying to gain social media likes.

Local media report that Chinese teen diving sensation Quan Hongchan's family and neighbours are facing harassment from tourists trying to gain social media likes. The 14-year-old's hometown Maihe village has been flooded with fans rushing to take video and photos ever since she won Olympic gold with three perfect-10 dives. Also read | From Bhavani Devi's efforts to Neeraj Chopra's gold: Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics Many fans are even climbing trees just to get a better view. While some attempted to steal jackfruit from her home as souvenirs, others took selfies with her family. People going to her house merely for followers is despicable. Her sick mother should not be disturbed, read one Weibo comment. Her story touched the hearts of many people after she dedicated her Olympic victory to her mother, who has been hospitalized numerous times following a car accident years ago. During an interview in Tokyo Quan said, that she wants to make enough money to support her mother. Also read | Tokyo Olympics: New Zealand hails 'incredible' Games after record medals haul Her mom's medical bills forced her to take up diving something that has garnered her a massive amount of support online. A hashtag relating to Quan and her home becoming an internet hotspot was viewed more than 25 million times on Weibo, China's Twitter-like platform. Influencers in Guangdong province reportedly staked out the rural village for live stream recordings even after midnight, earning criticism over the action. As a result of the large crowds, Covid control measures in the village have been violated, due to which the village is now closed to visitors. Also read | Biles, Belarus and sports drama: Here are some key moments of Tokyo Olympics 2020 Her years of training prevented her from visiting a zoo or an amusement park. In response, a safari and amusement park in Guangzhou has offered free annual memberships to all Chinese diving team members. China led the Olympic medal count until the final day of the Games on Sunday, when it was overtaken by the United States. The Chinese social media community has closely followed the Olympic Games and the accomplishments of their athletes.

14-year-old Chinese Olympic athlete mobbed by tourists

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<p>The Tokyo Olympics 2020 concluded as one of the "most challenging" Games in history owing to not one, but multiple uncertainties the multi-sport event faced.</p>

<p>Tokyo 2020, as the name suggests, was originally scheduled to take place last year after the capital city of Japan was selected as the host in 2013&nbsp;when no one had even the slightest idea what the world will face in 2020 — A pandemic.</p>

<p>And on top of that, the Games also suffered the brutality of climatic conditions and emerged as one of the hottest Olympics Games ever.</p>

<p>After the coronavirus pandemic wreaked havoc globally, Tokyo 2020 was postponed by a year, becoming the first such instance in the history of the Olympic Games as previously, the Games had been cancelled but not rescheduled.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&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">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The organisers and the Japanese government must be credited as they successfully pulled off the event and brought it to its closure after a year of struggle. However, the government faced protests from the locals, as they demanded to cancel the Games over a recent surge of COVID-19 cases in Tokyo.</p>

<p>Tokyo Games have emerged as insignia of hope, positivity, unity and strength as the world came together through the power of sport and the events were filled with passion, emotion and celebration.</p>

<p><strong>The Tokyo Games saw a series of firsts:</strong></p>

<p>-First Olympics with no audience<br />
-First gender-equal Games<br />
-Some firsts transgender athletes took part in Tokyo. Canadian footballer Quinn became the first openly transgender athlete to win an Olympic medal<br />
-First-ever Games with the highest number of events, a total of 339<br />
-Japan became the first Asian country to host the Summer Olympics twice<br />
-Hend Zaza, a 12-year old from Syria became the youngest player in Olympics history in table tennis<br />
-Four new sports debuted (Karate, skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing)</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367">From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympic</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Next stop, Paris!</strong></p>

<p>Now, Japan has handed over the Olympic baton to Paris. The next Summer Olympics will make a comeback 100 years after their last appearance. France previously hosted the Games in 1924 and 1900.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Breakdancing or breaking will make a debut at the 2024 Summer Olympics, which is&nbsp; scheduled to feature 32 sports. The event will feature men's and women's competitions with head-to-head matchups in which judges determine the winners. Surfing, skateboarding and sport climbing, which made their debut at Tokyo Games, will also return.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unlike Tokyo Games, which was played out in mostly empty stadia and under strict COVID-19 protocols, Paris will hopefully be different and open to the city with spectacular venues at the foot of most beautiful French landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais and the Château de Versailles.</p>

<p>However, considering the fast-changing global temperatures, it's difficult to foresee what 2024 has to offer to the world.</p>


The Tokyo Olympics 2020 concluded as one of the "most challenging" Games in history owing to not one, but multiple uncertainties the multi-sport event faced. Tokyo 2020, as the name suggests, was originally scheduled to take place last year after the capital city of Japan was selected as the host in 2013 when no one had even the slightest idea what the world will face in 2020 — A pandemic.

The Tokyo Olympics 2020 concluded as one of the "most challenging" Games in history owing to not one, but multiple uncertainties the multi-sport event faced. Tokyo 2020, as the name suggests, was originally scheduled to take place last year after the capital city of Japan was selected as the host in 2013 when no one had even the slightest idea what the world will face in 2020 — A pandemic. And on top of that, the Games also suffered the brutality of climatic conditions and emerged as one of the hottest Olympics Games ever. After the coronavirus pandemic wreaked havoc globally, Tokyo 2020 was postponed by a year, becoming the first such instance in the history of the Olympic Games as previously, the Games had been cancelled but not rescheduled. IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list The organisers and the Japanese government must be credited as they successfully pulled off the event and brought it to its closure after a year of struggle. However, the government faced protests from the locals, as they demanded to cancel the Games over a recent surge of COVID-19 cases in Tokyo. Tokyo Games have emerged as insignia of hope, positivity, unity and strength as the world came together through the power of sport and the events were filled with passion, emotion and celebration. The Tokyo Games saw a series of firsts: -First Olympics with no audience -First gender-equal Games -Some firsts transgender athletes took part in Tokyo. Canadian footballer Quinn became the first openly transgender athlete to win an Olympic medal -First-ever Games with the highest number of events, a total of 339 -Japan became the first Asian country to host the Summer Olympics twice -Hend Zaza, a 12-year old from Syria became the youngest player in Olympics history in table tennis -Four new sports debuted (Karate, skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing) IN PICS | From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympic Next stop, Paris! Now, Japan has handed over the Olympic baton to Paris. The next Summer Olympics will make a comeback 100 years after their last appearance. France previously hosted the Games in 1924 and 1900. Breakdancing or breaking will make a debut at the 2024 Summer Olympics, which is scheduled to feature 32 sports. The event will feature men's and women's competitions with head-to-head matchups in which judges determine the winners. Surfing, skateboarding and sport climbing, which made their debut at Tokyo Games, will also return. Unlike Tokyo Games, which was played out in mostly empty stadia and under strict COVID-19 protocols, Paris will hopefully be different and open to the city with spectacular venues at the foot of most beautiful French landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais and the Château de Versailles. However, considering the fast-changing global temperatures, it's difficult to foresee what 2024 has to offer to the world.

Goodbye Tokyo. Next stop, Paris!: Olympics 2020 was eventful. What to expect in the 2024 Games?

From Bhavani Devi's efforts to Neeraj Chopra's gold: Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics

<p>The world got the&nbsp;first glimpse or can say a short teaser of&nbsp;the Paris Games, which is scheduled to take place in 2024, during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (August 8). As the spectacular 16-day event concluded after record-shattering performances in Japan's capital, people around the world got to see what they can expect in Paris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the closing ceremony, the Olympic flame was extinguished in the cauldron and the flag was passed to Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo for the 2024 Games. Thousands of people were gathered in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower to watch the closing ceremony of the pandemic-hit Olympics and celebrate the French capital's status as host of the 2024 showpiece.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&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">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>President of the International Olympic Committee Thomas Bach declared the Games closed.</p>

<p>"And now I have to mark the end of this most challenging Olympic journey to Tokyo.&nbsp;I declare the Games of the 32nd Olympiad closed,"&nbsp;he said.</p>

<p>"In accordance with tradition, I call upon the youth of the world to assemble in Paris, France, in three years' time to celebrate the Games of the 33rd Olympiad," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The focus has now shifted to Paris, where the handover of the flag was celebrated with the flyover by jets from the Patrouille de France (Patrol of France) releasing blue, white and red smoke — forming the French flag in the sky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not just that, French President Emmanuel Macron was filmed on the top floor of the Eiffel Tower saying the Olympic slogan "higher, faster, stronger". He also added the word "Together" in it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367">From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympic</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">WHAT. A. DAY.<br />
QUELLE JOURNÉE.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/j0ACEOX6oI">pic.twitter.com/j0ACEOX6oI</a></p>
— Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paris2024/status/1424447350022475777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Can’t wait <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/olympicgames?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#olympicgames</a> lovely <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/patrouilledefrance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#patrouilledefrance</a> today in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris</a> <a href="https://t.co/0dBE88Z65S">pic.twitter.com/0dBE88Z65S</a></p>
— Stefrenq (@stefrenq) <a href="https://twitter.com/stefrenq/status/1424424277646970880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Patrouille de France (French Air Force) flies over the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> closing/turnover event held in Paris.<br />
<br />
They leave a smoke trail with the colors of the French flag 🇫🇷 to celebrate the games coming to Paris in 2024. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rapplerdotcom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rapplerdotcom</a> <a href="https://t.co/GvvJv1Syt4">pic.twitter.com/GvvJv1Syt4</a></p>
— Nile Villa (@in_thenile) <a href="https://twitter.com/in_thenile/status/1424421321690189825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Waouh again! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/patrouilledefrance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#patrouilledefrance</a> ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/PAFofficiel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PAFofficiel</a>⁩ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/paris2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#paris2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/avgeek?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#avgeek</a> <a href="https://t.co/UBxsPJ99Yj">pic.twitter.com/UBxsPJ99Yj</a></p>
— Franck MARCEAU (@franck_marceau) <a href="https://twitter.com/franck_marceau/status/1424356845234364416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/biles-belarus-and-sports-drama-here-are-some-key-moments-of-tokyo-olympics-2020-404131">Biles, Belarus and sports drama: Here are some key moments of Tokyo Olympics 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>French judo star Teddy Riner, who competed in Japan,&nbsp;was "emotional" as he said, "On an emotional level, it made me think of the 2012 and 2016 Olympics when a whole stadium is with you and cheering you on, it's very heartwarming."</p>

<p>Athletes who had taken part in the Tokyo Games were cheered by the crowds as thoughts turned to 2024.</p>

<p>"I missed most of the Olympics because I worked at night, so it's nice to see the best moments again," said 22-year-old Alix as highlights of the last two weeks were replayed on a giant TV screen.</p>

<p>"It's heartwarming to see the public, we have just gone through an Olympics which was a little different," admitted gymnast Samir Ait Said who carried the French flag at the opening ceremony on July 23.</p>

<p>"It boosts my soul ten times, I'm injured and I already want to go and train!"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Enfin une éclaircie sur Paris ⛅️ ! Ça se fête <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/patrouilledefrance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#patrouilledefrance</a> <a href="https://t.co/OJbNZDBnzI">pic.twitter.com/OJbNZDBnzI</a></p>
— Jeremy GUYOT (@JeremyGUYOT) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyGUYOT/status/1424364344909910017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Swimmer Florent Manaudou, a silver medallist in the 50m freestyle, predicted that the 2024 Games will be an iconic moment for the country.</p>

<p>"We feel that the fans are celebrating and that they are gradually preparing to experience the Games in three years here."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Decathlon silver medallist Kevin Mayer said he was delighted to "see all these little kids with stars in their eyes".</p>

<p>"It reminds me of myself when I was little."</p>

<p>Head of the 2024 organising committee, Tony Estanguet said the Games are on schedule.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For the moment, all the indicators are green," he said.</p>

<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The world got the first glimpse or can say a short teaser of the Paris Games, which is scheduled to take place in 2024, during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (August 8).

The world got the first glimpse or can say a short teaser of the Paris Games, which is scheduled to take place in 2024, during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (August 8). As the spectacular 16-day event concluded after record-shattering performances in Japan's capital, people around the world got to see what they can expect in Paris. During the closing ceremony, the Olympic flame was extinguished in the cauldron and the flag was passed to Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo for the 2024 Games. Thousands of people were gathered in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower to watch the closing ceremony of the pandemic-hit Olympics and celebrate the French capital's status as host of the 2024 showpiece. IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list President of the International Olympic Committee Thomas Bach declared the Games closed. "And now I have to mark the end of this most challenging Olympic journey to Tokyo. I declare the Games of the 32nd Olympiad closed," he said. "In accordance with tradition, I call upon the youth of the world to assemble in Paris, France, in three years' time to celebrate the Games of the 33rd Olympiad," he added. The focus has now shifted to Paris, where the handover of the flag was celebrated with the flyover by jets from the Patrouille de France (Patrol of France) releasing blue, white and red smoke — forming the French flag in the sky. Not just that, French President Emmanuel Macron was filmed on the top floor of the Eiffel Tower saying the Olympic slogan "higher, faster, stronger". He also added the word "Together" in it. IN PICS | From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympic Watch the video here: WHAT. A. DAY. QUELLE JOURNÉE.#Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/j0ACEOX6oI — Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) August 8, 2021 × Can’t wait #Paris2024 #olympicgames lovely #patrouilledefrance today in #Paris pic.twitter.com/0dBE88Z65S — Stefrenq (@stefrenq) August 8, 2021 × The Patrouille de France (French Air Force) flies over the #Olympics closing/turnover event held in Paris. They leave a smoke trail with the colors of the French flag 🇫🇷 to celebrate the games coming to Paris in 2024. #Paris2024 @rapplerdotcom pic.twitter.com/GvvJv1Syt4 — Nile Villa (@in_thenile) August 8, 2021 × Waouh again! #patrouilledefrance ⁦@PAFofficiel⁩ #paris2024 #avgeek pic.twitter.com/UBxsPJ99Yj — Franck MARCEAU (@franck_marceau) August 8, 2021 × IN PICS | Biles, Belarus and sports drama: Here are some key moments of Tokyo Olympics 2020 French judo star Teddy Riner, who competed in Japan, was "emotional" as he said, "On an emotional level, it made me think of the 2012 and 2016 Olympics when a whole stadium is with you and cheering you on, it's very heartwarming." Athletes who had taken part in the Tokyo Games were cheered by the crowds as thoughts turned to 2024. "I missed most of the Olympics because I worked at night, so it's nice to see the best moments again," said 22-year-old Alix as highlights of the last two weeks were replayed on a giant TV screen. "It's heartwarming to see the public, we have just gone through an Olympics which was a little different," admitted gymnast Samir Ait Said who carried the French flag at the opening ceremony on July 23. "It boosts my soul ten times, I'm injured and I already want to go and train!" Enfin une éclaircie sur Paris ⛅️ ! Ça se fête #patrouilledefrance pic.twitter.com/OJbNZDBnzI — Jeremy GUYOT (@JeremyGUYOT) August 8, 2021 × Swimmer Florent Manaudou, a silver medallist in the 50m freestyle, predicted that the 2024 Games will be an iconic moment for the country. "We feel that the fans are celebrating and that they are gradually preparing to experience the Games in three years here." Decathlon silver medallist Kevin Mayer said he was delighted to "see all these little kids with stars in their eyes". "It reminds me of myself when I was little." Head of the 2024 organising committee, Tony Estanguet said the Games are on schedule. "For the moment, all the indicators are green," he said. (with inputs from agencies)

As 'most challenging' Tokyo Olympics concludes, Paris teases 2024 Games: Watch

<p>Support for Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga slid below 30% for the first time since he took office, a survey showed on Monday, a sign the Tokyo Olympic Games failed to boost his ratings amid a resurgence of coronavirus infections.<br />
<br />
Roughly a third disapproved of holding the Games which closed on Sunday and 60% said they did not want Suga to stay on as premier, according to the poll conducted by Asahi newspaper, darkening his ruling party's prospects in general elections to be held later this year.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&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">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a></strong></p>

<p>In the poll conducted over the weekend, Suga's support slid to 28%, the lowest since he became prime minister in September last year.</p>

<p>Of those polled, 56% of those who replied said it was good to hold the Tokyo Games, while 32% thought it was a bad idea.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367">From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympic</a></strong></p>

<p>Japan's slow vaccination rollouts have hurt Suga's popularity and a spike in new infections, caused by the rapid spread of the Delta variant, has overshadowed the Olympic Games with cases hitting a milestone of one million on Friday.<br />
<br />
Suga and Olympics organisers have said there was no link between the Games and the spike in cases.</p>


Support for Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga slid below 30% for the first time since he took office, a survey showed on Monday, a sign the Tokyo Olympic Games failed to boost his ratings amid a resurgence of coronavirus infections.

Support for Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga slid below 30% for the first time since he took office, a survey showed on Monday, a sign the Tokyo Olympic Games failed to boost his ratings amid a resurgence of coronavirus infections. Roughly a third disapproved of holding the Games which closed on Sunday and 60% said they did not want Suga to stay on as premier, according to the poll conducted by Asahi newspaper, darkening his ruling party's prospects in general elections to be held later this year. IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list In the poll conducted over the weekend, Suga's support slid to 28%, the lowest since he became prime minister in September last year. Of those polled, 56% of those who replied said it was good to hold the Tokyo Games, while 32% thought it was a bad idea. IN PICS | From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympic Japan's slow vaccination rollouts have hurt Suga's popularity and a spike in new infections, caused by the rapid spread of the Delta variant, has overshadowed the Olympic Games with cases hitting a milestone of one million on Friday. Suga and Olympics organisers have said there was no link between the Games and the spike in cases.

Japan PM Yoshihide Suga's support slides to record low as Olympic Games close, survey reveals

<p>New Zealand has hailed its athletes for an "incredible" Tokyo Games as the country of five million burnished its reputation for punching above its weight with a record medals haul.</p>

<p>New Zealand claimed seven golds, six silvers and seven bronzes to finish 13th on the medal table, edging countries including South Korea (16) and Spain (22).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japan-pm-yoshihide-sugas-support-slides-to-record-low-as-olympic-games-close-survey-reveals-404103" hreflang="en">Japan PM Yoshihide Suga's support slides to record low as Olympic Games close, survey reveals</a></p>

<p>"There were some incredible performances," New Zealand chef de mission Robert Waddell told TVNZ on Monday.</p>

<p>"We have really enjoyed how the team has come together.</p>

<p>"I think partly because of the fact that we haven't had family and friends ... over here with us, it has been a really tight-knit team feeling and we've all drawn a lot of inspiration from each other's success."</p>

<p>New Zealand's tally was boosted by canoe sprint sensation https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/canoe-sprint-hungarys-csizmadia-briton-heath-ease-into-final-2021-08-05 Lisa Carrington, who became the country's most decorated Olympian with a three-gold haul at Tokyo, while claiming her third successive kayak single 200 metres title after Rio and London.</p>

<p>New Zealand's traditional strengths delivered, with rowing producing three golds and two silvers, the women's rugby sevens team dominating to win gold and the men taking silver.</p>

<p>But Waddell was thrilled by unexpected minor medals in boxing and trampoline.</p>

<p>"All those medals were across 11 different sports which is a great thing for New Zealand because it's not just one sport that's delivering," he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-2020-british-team-hail-miracle-of-tokyo-after-big-medals-haul-404031" hreflang="en">Olympics 2020: British team hail 'miracle of Tokyo' after big medals haul</a></p>

<p>"What Dylan Schmidt did in trampolining, what David Nyika did in boxing, those show a pathway for other young kids in New Zealand who might be able to follow in those footsteps and achieve at the same sort of level."</p>

<p>Following on from victory over cricket powerhouse India in the inaugural World Test Championship final in June, the Olympic haul continues New Zealand's track record of doing more with less.</p>

<p>"We're very collaborative," said Waddell. "We work together well and we're big enough that we can do that but not so big that we're clumsy."</p>


New Zealand has hailed its athletes for an "incredible" Tokyo Games as the country of five million burnished its reputation for punching above its weight with a record medals haul.

New Zealand has hailed its athletes for an "incredible" Tokyo Games as the country of five million burnished its reputation for punching above its weight with a record medals haul. New Zealand claimed seven golds, six silvers and seven bronzes to finish 13th on the medal table, edging countries including South Korea (16) and Spain (22). ALSO READ: Japan PM Yoshihide Suga's support slides to record low as Olympic Games close, survey reveals "There were some incredible performances," New Zealand chef de mission Robert Waddell told TVNZ on Monday. "We have really enjoyed how the team has come together. "I think partly because of the fact that we haven't had family and friends ... over here with us, it has been a really tight-knit team feeling and we've all drawn a lot of inspiration from each other's success." New Zealand's tally was boosted by canoe sprint sensation https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/canoe-sprint-hungarys-csizmadia-briton-heath-ease-into-final-2021-08-05 Lisa Carrington, who became the country's most decorated Olympian with a three-gold haul at Tokyo, while claiming her third successive kayak single 200 metres title after Rio and London. New Zealand's traditional strengths delivered, with rowing producing three golds and two silvers, the women's rugby sevens team dominating to win gold and the men taking silver. But Waddell was thrilled by unexpected minor medals in boxing and trampoline. "All those medals were across 11 different sports which is a great thing for New Zealand because it's not just one sport that's delivering," he said. ALSO READ: Olympics 2020: British team hail 'miracle of Tokyo' after big medals haul "What Dylan Schmidt did in trampolining, what David Nyika did in boxing, those show a pathway for other young kids in New Zealand who might be able to follow in those footsteps and achieve at the same sort of level." Following on from victory over cricket powerhouse India in the inaugural World Test Championship final in June, the Olympic haul continues New Zealand's track record of doing more with less. "We're very collaborative," said Waddell. "We work together well and we're big enough that we can do that but not so big that we're clumsy."

Tokyo Olympics: New Zealand hails 'incredible' Games after record medals haul

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Star athletes who failed to live up to expectations

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