Prakash Padukone Guides PV Sindhu in Paris Olympics Village

Prakash Padukone Guides PV Sindhu in Paris Olympics Village

Prakash Padukone, the legendary Indian badminton player, is relishing the vibrant atmosphere of the Paris Olympics Village. As part of PV Sindhu’s coaching team, Padukone is sharing the space with some of the biggest names in sports, including Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal.

Padukone’s role in Team Sindhu is primarily tactical. While Agus Dwi Santoso focuses on enhancing Sindhu’s stroke power and variety, Padukone guides her on the strategic deployment of those strokes. He emphasizes the importance of using the right strokes at the right time, a skill he honed during his illustrious career.

Padukone’s association with Sindhu began last year as a mentor. He has since accompanied her to several tournaments, aiming to restore her confidence and rediscover her winning ways. While Sindhu has shown glimpses of her former brilliance, Padukone acknowledges the challenges of transforming her game in a short period.

Despite the time constraints, Padukone is confident in Sindhu’s ability to contend for a medal in Paris. He believes her big-match mentality and unwavering focus on peaking at the right time will serve her well. Sindhu’s impressive medal haul at major tournaments, including silver at the 2016 Rio Games and bronze in Tokyo, further bolsters Padukone’s optimism.

Padukone’s presence in the Village is a testament to his enduring passion for badminton. He is eager to share his knowledge and experience with Sindhu and help her achieve her Olympic dreams. The camaraderie and shared experiences within the Village are also a source of inspiration for Padukone, who is embracing the spirit of the Games.

India's Olympic Quest: Medals, Pressure, and the Path to Success

India’s Olympic Quest: Medals, Pressure, and the Path to Success

India’s Olympic aspirations have long been a subject of debate, with varying metrics used to measure success. As the nation prepares for the 2024 Paris Games, the focus remains on tangible results, with medals serving as the ultimate benchmark.

For athletes like Neeraj Chopra, Olympic glory brings substantial rewards, including government grants and corporate endorsements. However, failure can lead to swift public disinterest. This pressure drives athletes to perform at their peak, recognizing that a single event can define their careers.

To achieve excellence, experts emphasize the importance of mastering the process. Athletics Federation of India president Adille Sumariwalla advocates for a long-term approach, focusing on progression rather than immediate medal count. The government’s increased financial support for athletics, amounting to ₹96.08 crore, reflects a renewed belief in the sport’s potential.

Manisha Malhotra, who has worked with both Abhinav Bindra and Neeraj Chopra, highlights the mental fortitude that sets successful athletes apart. They possess unwavering belief and leave no stone unturned in their preparation.

Bindra believes that today’s Indian athletes are more confident and ambitious than their predecessors. However, the pressure to perform remains constant, requiring adaptability and focus on the present moment.

Despite significant progress, India still faces challenges in creating a thriving sports ecosystem. Grassroots coaching, infrastructure, and sports science expertise are crucial for nurturing talent. The government acknowledges the need for a comprehensive approach, emphasizing that financial support is not the sole solution.

Bindra urges athletes to take pride in representing India, regardless of the outcome. He believes that the pursuit of Olympic glory should not overshadow the journey and the sacrifices made along the way.

Nita Ambani Re-elected as IOC Member, Boosting India's Olympic Ambitions

Nita Ambani Re-elected as IOC Member, Boosting India’s Olympic Ambitions

Ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has unanimously re-elected Nita M. Ambani as the IOC member from India. This marks a significant milestone for India’s growing influence in the global sporting arena.

Nita Ambani, the leading Indian philanthropist and Founder of the Reliance Foundation, was first appointed to the IOC in 2016. Since then, she has played a pivotal role in strengthening the Olympic Movement in India and worldwide.

As India’s first woman to join the IOC, Ambani has championed India’s sporting ambitions and Olympic vision. She recently hosted the first IOC session in Mumbai in over 40 years, showcasing India’s transformation and aspirations to the world.

Through the Reliance Foundation, Ambani empowers millions of Indians with resources and opportunities. Her initiatives span sport, education, health, art, and culture, aiming to improve lives across the country.

Reliance Foundation is at the forefront of driving India’s sports growth. Its programs reach over 22.9 million children and youth, promoting a variety of sports, especially in remote areas.

As part of a partnership with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), Reliance Foundation will open the first-ever India House at the Paris Olympics 2024. This “home away from home” for athletes will celebrate India’s Olympic journey and demonstrate its ambitions to become a global sports powerhouse.

Ambani’s re-election to the IOC is a testament to her dedication to the Olympic Movement and her unwavering commitment to promoting sports in India. It also reflects India’s growing stature in the international sporting community.

Football Ignites Paris 2024 Olympics with Spain, Argentina Headlining

Football Ignites Paris 2024 Olympics with Spain, Argentina Headlining

Football ignited the flame of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on Tuesday, with Spain and Argentina, the reigning FIFA World Cup and Copa America champions, respectively, taking center stage in Paris and Saint-Etienne.

At Parc des Princes in western Paris, Spain faced Uzbekistan, while Argentina, without Lionel Messi, encountered Morocco at Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium in Saint-Étienne. Spain’s Marc Pubill etched his name in history by scoring the first goal of the Summer Games in the 29th minute.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino graced the occasion, meeting players before the Uzbekistan-Spain match at Parc des Princes, the former home of Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe.

As the beautiful game kickstarted the action-packed Summer Olympics in Paris, let’s delve into the world of football and highlight some of the biggest names vying for Olympic gold:

Marta (Brazil)

Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, Marta, is set to retire from international football after the Paris Games. The 38-year-old legend captains the Selecao and holds the distinction of being the first footballer to score in five consecutive Olympic Games.

Aitana Bonmati (Spain)

Spain, the reigning world champions, boast Aitana Bonmati, the 2023 Ballon d’Or winner, as their star player. The European giants are making their debut in women’s football at the Summer Games in Paris, having lost only twice in 14 matches since their historic FIFA World Cup triumph over England.

Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)

Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi is a prominent figure at the Summer Olympics. The 25-year-old led Morocco to the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and has opted to miss PSG’s pre-season preparations to compete in the Games.

Alexandre Lacazette (France)

Thierry Henry’s choice to lead France in the Summer Games is Alexandre Lacazette. The former Arsenal forward has not played for France since 2017 but has been an impressive force for Lyon, scoring 22 goals in 35 games last season.

Julian Alvarez (Argentina)

Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez arrives in Paris after a stellar season with Pep Guardiola’s side. The 22-year-old was instrumental in Manchester City’s Premier League triumph and also lifted the Copa America with Argentina.

Angelique Kerber: Olympic Medal as Important as Grand Slam Title

Angelique Kerber: Olympic Medal as Important as Grand Slam Title

Angelique Kerber, the former world No. 1 and three-time Grand Slam champion, holds the Olympic Games in the highest regard, equating its significance to that of a Grand Slam title. In an interview with Vogue Germany, Kerber expressed her excitement for the upcoming Paris 2024 Games, describing it as a “huge highlight” in her career.

The Paris Olympics, scheduled to commence on July 26, will feature tennis competitions on the familiar clay courts of Roland Garros. However, Kerber anticipates a distinct experience due to the unique atmosphere surrounding the Games. “You can only play a match at the Olympic Games once every four years,” she explained. “Representing your country becomes even more important.”

Kerber emphasized the profound difference in emotions when competing for one’s nation. “It’s a different feeling when you’re wearing the outfit with the national eagle and the national colors,” she said. “Being together in the Olympic Village, you don’t get that kind of atmosphere at a normal tournament—not even at the Grand Slams.”

Since becoming a mother in 2023, Kerber has experienced a significant shift in her mindset on the court. She acknowledges that balancing motherhood and a sporting career requires meticulous organization and unwavering courage. Kerber hopes that her generation’s experiences can pave the way for younger players to navigate the challenges of combining family and athletic pursuits.

“We are a generation in which more and more mothers are returning to competitive sport,” she told Vogue. “I also think that’s extremely important. That you still have a job for yourself.”

Kerber believes that prioritizing one’s own well-being and pursuing passions ultimately benefits both the individual and their loved ones. “Of course, children always come first, but ultimately, if you are happy with yourself and do what you love—be it a job or a hobby—then you can give much more back to your child and the other people around you.”

The draws for the Paris 2024 tennis tournament will be held on Thursday, with Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff earning the top two seeds in women’s singles.

JSW Inspire Kits: India's Athletes Gear Up for Paris 2024 with Cutting-Edge Sportswear

JSW Inspire Kits: India’s Athletes Gear Up for Paris 2024 with Cutting-Edge Sportswear

As the Paris 2024 Olympics draw near, India’s athletes are not only preparing physically but also donning their striking new JSW Inspire sports kits. These kits are not just athletic wear; they are symbols of national pride and are engineered with cutting-edge technology to enhance performance.

The JSW Inspire kits boast several advanced features designed to optimize athleticism. The stretchable material conforms to the athlete’s body, providing a custom fit that maximizes range of motion. Anti-static properties ensure comfort by reducing static cling, while strategically placed air vents facilitate airflow and heat dissipation, helping athletes manage the heat.

Anti-microbial properties prevent unpleasant odors and fabric degradation, while Drytech+ technology wicks moisture away from the skin, keeping athletes cool and dry. This reduces chafing and irritation, allowing them to focus on their performance.

The response to the official Indian Olympic merchandise has been overwhelming. Within just 2.5 weeks of its release, the traffic for these jerseys exceeded 100,000 visits, with most of the traffic being organic. This surge in interest reflects the national pride and love for sports among Indians. Over 5,000 orders have been placed, many by corporates providing kits for their members traveling to Paris.

While major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Kolkata, and Hyderabad accounted for a majority of the orders, there was also significant demand from tier-I and tier-II cities such as Rohtak, Chandigarh, Mizoram, Madhya Pradesh, Sonipat, and Sivakasi.

Indian athletes have expressed their pride and enthusiasm for the new kits. Neeraj Chopra, the javelin thrower, said, “As a JSW athlete, it makes me immensely proud to wear a kit manufactured by JSW Inspire at the Olympic Games. A part of an athlete’s confidence in competition comes from the kitting. I really like the concept behind the design of these kits, and hope to see our contingent create as many winning moments in them.”

Manpreet Singh, captain of the men’s hockey team, added, “It felt good to wear the jersey. I really liked ‘India’ written in Gold. It gave me goosebumps. It’s always every athlete’s dream to win a gold medal, and seeing India written in gold gives an athlete motivation. The jersey looks beautiful.”

Nishant Dev, a boxer, said, “I really like the design of the JSW Inspire kit, which pays tribute to India’s vast terrains and mountains. Growing up, it was always my dream to represent India at the Olympic Games. To do it in these JSW Inspire kits as a JSW athlete makes it even more special.”

Tarundeep Rai Eyes Maiden Olympic Medal in Fourth Appearance

Tarundeep Rai Eyes Maiden Olympic Medal in Fourth Appearance

Tarundeep Rai, a seasoned Indian archer, is determined to make his fourth Olympic appearance in Paris a memorable one by securing his first Olympic medal. At 40 years old, Rai has an impressive track record, having won medals at every major global and continental championship, including two World Championship silver medals, nine World Cup medals, and three Asian Games medals.

Despite his success, Rai has yet to achieve his Olympic dream. He exited in the first round of the individual event in Athens 2004, and in the second round in both London 2012 and Tokyo 2021. In Tokyo, the men’s team, which included Rai, reached the quarterfinals.

“It’s emotional every day,” Rai said. “It’s the fourth time. It’s a now-or-never situation for me, and that’s what I tell my teammates too. You have to put in an effort as if it’s going to be your last.”

Rai is also serving as an unofficial mentor to the Indian team, sharing his vast experience and knowledge with his younger teammates. He believes that the team has the potential to win a medal in Paris, and he is determined to help them achieve their goal.

“We have kept that in control (this time),” Rai said. “Coaches, management, players’ mentality, we have kept that in check. Everyone is in their best form.”

For the first time since London 2012, India will have a full six-member squad in Paris, after both the men’s and women’s teams qualified on the basis of rankings. This means they will compete in all five events.

Rai’s journey to the Olympics has not been without its challenges. He failed to make it to the Hangzhou Asian Games last year, which served as a wake-up call for him.

“Yes, the Asian Games was a realization period and gave me a lot of positive vibes,” Rai said. “If that did not happen, maybe I would not have made it to my fourth Olympics and reached here.”

Despite the setbacks, Rai remains optimistic and is eager to make the most of his final Olympic opportunity. He has set up an academy in Sikkim to pass on his knowledge to the future generation of archers.

“Coaching or not, you have to give something back to the sport,” Rai said. “This is one thing we have lacked. Transfer of technique, transfer of experience. Senior archers leaving should come back. This gap we have to fill up.”

Coco Gauff Named First American Tennis Player to Carry U.S. Flag at Olympics

Coco Gauff Named First American Tennis Player to Carry U.S. Flag at Olympics

Coco Gauff, the 20-year-old tennis prodigy, has been bestowed with the prestigious honor of being the female flag bearer for Team USA at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. This historic moment marks the first time an American tennis player has been entrusted with this responsibility, and Gauff becomes the youngest athlete ever to carry the flag.

Gauff’s selection as flag bearer is a testament to her remarkable achievements on and off the court. She has established herself as one of the most promising young stars in tennis, reaching the quarterfinals of the French Open and Wimbledon in 2022. Beyond her athletic prowess, Gauff is known for her maturity, poise, and commitment to social justice.

The flag bearer ceremony will take place on Friday during the Opening Ceremony in Paris. Gauff will lead the nearly 600 U.S. athletes, staff, and dignitaries in the traditional parade of nations, which will be held on boats floating down the Seine River. She will stand alongside basketball legend LeBron James, who was selected as the male flag bearer.

Gauff’s selection was made through a vote led by the Team USA Athletes’ Commission. Her fellow first-time tennis Olympian, Chris Eubanks, nominated her, describing her as his “little sister” and praising her character and accomplishments.

Other notable tennis players who have carried the flag for their countries include Roger Federer, Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal, Maria Sharapova, and Caroline Wozniacki. In 2024, Chile’s Nicolas Jarry will serve as the male flag bearer for his country.

Gauff’s Olympic debut is highly anticipated, and her role as flag bearer adds an extra layer of significance to her journey. She is expected to compete in both singles and doubles events, aiming to make history and inspire a new generation of athletes.

India's Olympic Medal Contenders Face Challenges in Paris

India’s Olympic Medal Contenders Face Challenges in Paris

India’s Olympic campaign kicks off on Friday with archers taking the stage, aiming to surpass their record medal haul of seven from Tokyo. Among the medal contenders, Neeraj Chopra faces stiff competition from Jakub Valdlejch and Arshad Nadeem in the javelin throw. The men’s hockey team faces a challenging group stage, with Australia posing a significant threat. PV Sindhu, despite recent struggles, remains a medal hopeful but could face a showdown with reigning gold medalist Chen Yu Fei. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty have a potential semifinal clash with Chinese top seeds in men’s doubles. Nikhat Zareen identifies Turkey’s Buse Naz Cakiroglu as her biggest challenge in the women’s 50kg boxing category. Vinesh Phogat, despite past Olympic disappointments, aims to break the curse and secure a medal in wrestling.

Alcaraz and Nadal Team Up for Olympic Doubles Debut

Alcaraz and Nadal Team Up for Olympic Doubles Debut

Olympic Fever Grips Tennis World as Alcaraz and Nadal Team Up for Paris

The countdown to the Paris Olympics has officially begun, and the tennis world is abuzz with excitement as some of the biggest names in the sport descend upon the transformed grounds of Roland Garros. Among them are two superstars who are set to make their Olympic debut together on the global stage: Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal.

On Tuesday, Alcaraz shared a special photo from inside Court Philippe Chatrier, standing alongside his doubles partner, Nadal. Alcaraz, who recently completed the Roland Garros-Wimbledon double, will be making his Olympic debut after raising his major title collection to four trophies. Nadal, fresh off a runner-up effort in Bastad, has previously brought home gold in both singles (2008 Beijing) and doubles (2016 Rio de Janeiro) for Spain.

The iconic duo has yet to decide on a nickname, with Alcaraz open to suggestions from fans. “Raflitos? Nadalcaraz?” he pondered.

The draws for all events are due to be released on Thursday, with tennis action launching on Saturday with first-round singles and doubles action.

In addition to Alcaraz and Nadal, several other familiar faces have been spotted at the venue, including:

* Novak Djokovic, the reigning Wimbledon champion and a two-time Olympic bronze medalist
* Daniil Medvedev, the reigning US Open champion and a former Olympic silver medalist
* Stefanos Tsitsipas, the reigning Monte-Carlo Masters champion and a former Olympic silver medalist
* Alexander Zverev, the reigning Madrid Open champion and a former Olympic gold medalist
* Iga Swiatek, the reigning French Open champion and a former Olympic gold medalist
* Ons Jabeur, the reigning Wimbledon finalist and a former Olympic bronze medalist

With such a star-studded field, the Paris Olympics are sure to provide plenty of thrilling moments and unforgettable matches.

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