With the Paris 2024 Olympics set to commence with its opening ceremony on July 26 along the River Seine, Indian fans are eagerly anticipating India’s medal prospects after their record-breaking seven-medal haul at Tokyo 2020.
Here’s a detailed look at 10 Indian athletes who could shine at the Paris Olympics:
- Neeraj Chopra (Javelin Throw)
- Achievements: Reigning world and Olympic champion, gold medals at Asian and Commonwealth Games.
- Medal Chances: Despite recent injury concerns, Neeraj remains a top contender with consistent performances in major events.
- Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty (Badminton)
- Achievements: Former world No.1 men’s doubles pair.
- Medal Chances: Recent victories at the French Open and Thailand Open underline their potential, contingent on Satwik’s recovery from a shoulder injury.
- Antim Panghal (Wrestling)
- Achievements: World Junior Champion and 2023 World Championships bronze medallist.
- Medal Chances: Seeded fourth in her category, Antim aims to capitalize on a favorable draw to reach the medal rounds.
- Lovlina Borgohain (Boxing)
- Achievements: Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist, now competing in the 75kg category.
- Medal Chances: Strong performances post-Tokyo, including a World Championships gold, position Lovlina as a serious medal contender.
- PV Sindhu (Badminton)
- Achievements: Two-time Olympic medallist.
- Medal Chances: Known for her prowess in big tournaments, Sindhu’s form and draw will be crucial as she eyes another Olympic medal.
- Mirabai Chanu (Weightlifting)
- Achievements: Tokyo Olympics silver medallist, gold at 2017 World Championships.
- Medal Chances: Despite recent injuries, Mirabai’s experience and track record make her a strong contender in weightlifting.
- Indian Men’s Hockey Team
- Achievements: Eight Olympic golds, bronze at Tokyo 2020.
- Medal Chances: In a tough Pool B, including strong teams like Belgium and Australia, India’s challenge lies in progressing through to the knockouts.
- Nikhat Zareen (Boxing)
- Achievements: Two-time world champion.
- Medal Chances: Despite setbacks, Nikhat’s form indicates a strong possibility of podium finish, contingent on consistent performance.
- Manu Bhaker (Shooting)
- Achievements: 2023 World Championships gold medallist.
- Medal Chances: Competing in multiple events, Manu aims to showcase her skills under Olympic pressure after a promising World Championships.
- Aman Sehrawat (Wrestling)
- Achievements: 2022 World U23 champion, 2023 Asian Championships gold medallist.
- Medal Chances: Seeded sixth, Aman faces tough competition but has shown potential to upset higher-ranked wrestlers.
As India gears up for Paris 2024, these athletes represent the country’s hopes for adding to its Olympic medal tally, promising thrilling performances on the global stage.
