As the Paris 2024 Olympics commence tomorrow, India’s contingent of athletes is ready to showcase their skills and aim for glory. Following a historic performance at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, where India secured seven medals, the country is optimistic about an even more impressive tally this year. Here’s a look at the men athletes and teams who are poised to make an impact in Paris.
India’s Olympic journey has been marked by significant achievements and challenges. After a record six medals at London 2012, the 2016 Rio Olympics brought only two medals. However, the Tokyo Olympics 2020 was a turning point, with seven medals highlighting India’s growing strength. Building on this momentum, India is targeting around 15 medals for Paris.
Key men athletes to watch
Neeraj Chopra, Javelin Throw
He made history at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 by winning India’s first-ever Olympic Gold in track and field. His impressive track record includes a Gold at the 2023 World Athletics Championships, a Gold at the 2022 Asian Games, and a Silver at the 2022 World Championships. Chopra’s recent victories, including the 2022 Diamond League Final, position him as a top contender for Gold in Paris.
Aman Sehrawat, Wrestling (57-kg Freestyle)
He has rapidly risen in the ranks, with notable achievements including a Gold at the 2023 Asian Championships and a Bronze at the 2022 Asian Games. Although he did not compete at Tokyo 2020, his performances and sixth seed ranking in Paris highlight his potential.
Sharath Kamal, Table Tennis
The Paris Olympics will be his fifth appearance, making him a venerable figure in Indian table tennis. At 41, Kamal remains a formidable competitor, with a track record that includes eight Golds, three Silvers, and three Bronze medals at the Commonwealth Games. His participation in both singles and team events could yield significant results.
Indian Men’s Hockey Team
Led by Harmanpreet Singh and coached by Craig Fulton, the Indian men’s hockey team has a rich history of success with eight Gold medals. Their recent achievements, including a Bronze at Tokyo 2020 and gold at the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy, set high expectations for a podium finish.
Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, Men’s Doubles Badminton
The duo has had a stellar two years, with titles including the Asian Games Gold Medal and the French Open Super 750 in 2022. Their recent victories, including the Swiss Open 2023, highlight their strong form and medal potential in Paris.
Rohan Bopanna, Men’s Doubles Tennis
At 44, Rohan Bopanna is likely participating in his final Olympics. Despite missing Tokyo 2020 due to injury, Bopanna’s remarkable comeback includes winning the Australian Open and becoming the oldest world No. 1 in men’s doubles. Paired with N. Sriram Balaji, Bopanna aims to cap his career with an Olympic medal.