Neeraj Chopra Qualifies for Diamond League Finale Despite Groin Injury

Neeraj Chopra Qualifies for Diamond League Finale Despite Groin Injury

India’s javelin throw sensation Neeraj Chopra has secured his spot in the prestigious Diamond League season finale, scheduled for September 14-15 in Brussels. Despite battling a persistent groin injury, Chopra’s impressive performances throughout the season have earned him a place among the top four athletes in the overall standings.

Chopra’s journey to the Diamond League finale began with a second-place finish in Doha, where he threw 89.30m. He replicated this feat in Lausanne, finishing behind Grenada’s Anderson Peters with a throw of 89.08m. These performances earned him 14 points, placing him fourth in the overall standings.

The 26-year-old Haryana-born athlete has been grappling with a groin injury since before the Tokyo Olympics, which has hindered his pursuit of the elusive 90m mark. Despite this setback, Chopra has remained determined to overcome his physical challenges and regain his peak form.

In the recently concluded Zurich meet, Peters emerged victorious with a throw of 90.61m, while German star Julian Weber finished second. Chopra opted to skip this meet to prioritize his recovery and preparation for the Diamond League finale.

Chopra’s participation in the Diamond League finale holds significant importance as the winner of each event is awarded a prestigious “Diamond Trophy,” a cash prize of USD 30,000, and a wild card for the World Athletics Championships.

The Indian javelin thrower has a strong track record in the Diamond League, having won the Lausanne leg in 2022 and 2023. He also finished second to Jakub Vadlejch in the winner-takes-all finale in Eugene, USA, last year.

Chopra’s immediate focus is on addressing his groin injury and regaining full fitness. He has expressed his determination to improve his technique and push the boundaries of his performance in the upcoming season.

Ravi Dahiya Eyes Comeback in Higher Weight Category for LA28 Olympics

Ravi Dahiya Eyes Comeback in Higher Weight Category for LA28 Olympics

Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Ravi Dahiya, sidelined for an extended period due to a knee injury, is eyeing a comeback next year in a higher weight category. Despite losing to Aman Sehrawat in the Olympic selection trials for the 57kg weight class, Dahiya remains determined to compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Dahiya’s decision to change weight classes stems from his physical attributes. Tall and lean, he has struggled to maintain the 57kg weight limit. The next Olympic weight class, 65kg, is currently occupied by Bajrang Punia, who won bronze in Tokyo.

“I will not fight in the same weight category,” Dahiya told HT. “I will change my weight division but I am waiting to see whether there will be any changes in weight classes and depending on that I will take a call.”

Dahiya’s recovery from his knee injury is ongoing, and he expects to be fully fit within the next few months. He is currently focused on strengthening his muscles and will return to the mat when medically cleared.

Meanwhile, Aman Sehrawat, who won bronze in the 57kg weight class at the Paris Olympics, has credited Dahiya for his guidance and support. “He told me not to think of doing anything different at the Olympics. Remember your strengths and don’t get drawn into the tactics of the opponents,” Sehrawat said.

Dahiya praised Sehrawat for his Olympic medal, calling him “the youngest medallist from India.” He advised Sehrawat to aim for a gold medal in Los Angeles.

Tokyo Olympian Deepak Punia, who missed the Paris qualification tournament due to unforeseen circumstances, has remained positive despite the setback. “It was very disappointing, but I thought it was not in my hands. My job is to keep performing,” Punia said.

Punia, along with Dahiya and Sehrawat, shared their experiences and motivational advice with young wrestlers and track and field athletes at an event hosted by the Superpositivity Foundation.

Deepali Deshpande's Journey from Tokyo Disappointment to Paris Triumph

Deepali Deshpande’s Journey from Tokyo Disappointment to Paris Triumph

Deepali Deshpande, the former high performance manager for rifle shooting at the Tokyo Olympics, faced a mental health crisis in the aftermath of the team’s disappointing performance. She experienced disorientation while driving, prompting her to seek professional help.

Deshpande realized that the pressure and focus on the Olympics had taken a toll on her well-being. She began practicing yoga and physical training to cope with the stress. She also spent time with her family to regain her balance.

Despite her efforts, the wounds from Tokyo lingered. However, her trainee Swapnil Kusale’s bronze medal at the Paris Olympics brought her solace. Another trainee, Arjun Babuta, narrowly missed a medal.

Reflecting on the Tokyo debacle, Deshpande acknowledged the impact it had on the shooters. She questioned whether the COVID-19 pandemic or the extended pre-training camp in Croatia had contributed to their poor performance.

After leaving her role as national coach, Deshpande shifted her focus to six of her trainees, providing them with individualized attention. She drew lessons from Tokyo and incorporated mental training and nutrition into their preparation.

Deshpande also enhanced her coaching skills through the NIS coaching course. She focused on technical details and ensured that her shooters were well-prepared for any challenges at the Olympics.

Despite the ghosts of Tokyo, Deshpande remained determined to support her trainees. She was relieved when all six qualified for the Paris Olympics and found comfort in the pictures she had taken with the team before Tokyo.

Deshpande’s journey highlights the importance of mental health in sports and the resilience required to overcome setbacks. Her dedication and unwavering support for her trainees ultimately led to their success at the Paris Olympics.

Indian Sports: Post-Tokyo Blues Linger as Paris 2024 Looms

Indian Sports: Post-Tokyo Blues Linger as Paris 2024 Looms

Indian Sports: Post-Tokyo Blues Linger as Paris 2024 Looms

The Indian sporting landscape has been grappling with a sense of disappointment following the Tokyo Olympics. The nation’s medal count, which had witnessed a surge in recent years, has plateaued, leaving many questioning the progress made.

At the 2020 Tokyo Games, India secured seven medals, including one gold, two silvers, and four bronzes. While this represented a significant improvement over previous Olympic performances, it fell short of the expectations raised by the country’s recent sporting successes.

The lack of a significant medal haul in Paris 2024 has raised concerns about the state of Indian sports. Critics argue that the post-Tokyo lull is a sign of complacency and a lack of investment in grassroots development.

One area of particular concern is the absence of a clear medal contender in the upcoming Olympics. While India has traditionally excelled in shooting, wrestling, and badminton, there are no obvious favorites in these disciplines for Paris 2024.

The Indian government has acknowledged the need to address these challenges. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has announced plans to increase funding for sports infrastructure and training programs. However, experts believe that more needs to be done to create a sustainable sporting ecosystem.

The lack of a robust grassroots system has been identified as a major impediment to India’s sporting progress. Many talented athletes from rural areas lack access to proper coaching and facilities, limiting their potential.

Furthermore, the focus on a few select sports has led to the neglect of other disciplines. India has a rich sporting heritage in traditional games such as kabaddi and kho-kho, but these sports have received little attention from the government and sports federations.

As Paris 2024 approaches, Indian sports administrators face a daunting task. They must address the systemic issues that have hindered the country’s sporting progress and create a comprehensive plan to ensure future success.

Vinesh Phogat's CAS Appeal Dismissed, IOA Expresses Disappointment

Vinesh Phogat’s CAS Appeal Dismissed, IOA Expresses Disappointment

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has confirmed that wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has been dismissed. The decision, which came as a surprise to both Phogat and the IOA, was announced on Wednesday, August 16.

According to IOA advocate Vidushpat Singhania, CAS has not provided a reason for dismissing Phogat’s appeal. He added that the decision can be appealed against at the Swiss Federal Tribunal within 30 days.

“No detailed order has come yet. Only a single-line order has come so far that her appeal has been dismissed. They have not cited a reason why it has been dismissed or why did they take so much time…We were both surprised and disappointed that a decision came last evening and her appeal was dismissed… We hope that the detailed order will come in 10-15 days… CAS decision can be appealed against at the Swiss Federal Tribunal within 30 days. The 30-day time will begin after a detailed order comes. Harish Salve is with us, he will guide us. We will sit with him, draft an appeal and file it…,” Singhania said.

Phogat was disqualified from the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling final at the Tokyo Olympics on August 7 after exceeding the weight limit. She was found to be 100 grams over the limit during the weigh-in.

Following her disqualification, Phogat appealed to CAS, requesting that she be awarded the silver medal. However, her appeal has now been dismissed.

The verdict was originally scheduled for Tuesday, August 13, but was delayed to August 16. The decision was announced on Wednesday, August 16.

Phogat’s disqualification and subsequent appeal have been a major talking point in the Indian sporting community. Many have expressed support for Phogat, while others have questioned the fairness of the decision.

The IOA has stated that it will continue to support Phogat and will explore all legal options available to her.

Japanese Wrestler Rei Higuchi Supports Vinesh Phogat After Disqualification

Japanese Wrestler Rei Higuchi Supports Vinesh Phogat After Disqualification

Vinesh Phogat’s heartbreaking disqualification at the Tokyo Olympics resonated deeply with Japanese wrestler Rei Higuchi, who had faced a similar fate at the Asian Olympic qualifiers. Higuchi, who went on to win gold in the men’s freestyle 57kg at the Paris Olympics 2024, extended his support to Phogat, urging her to stay strong and ignore the negativity surrounding her.

Phogat, a 29-year-old Indian wrestler, was disqualified hours before her gold medal bout in the women’s 50kg category for being 100 grams over the permissible weight limit. The incident left a profound impact on Phogat, who announced her retirement the following morning.

Higuchi, who had also missed the Tokyo Olympics after failing to make weight at the Asian Olympic qualifiers, understood Phogat’s pain and frustration. He posted a message on social media, encouraging her to stay positive and not let the setback define her.

“I posted it without knowing whether anyone would be interested,” Higuchi said. “I thought I could best understand how the Indian athlete felt because I made the same mistake. I gave it my all and experienced the same frustration and despair. I posted this in the hope that Vinesh doesn’t care what people around her say. I just wanted her to take it slow and go forward from there.”

While Higuchi sympathizes with Phogat’s situation, he believes that the United World Wrestling rules clearly state that wrestlers who fail to make weight are disqualified and given the last spot. “Unfortunately, the current rules won’t allow me to support that decision,” he said when asked whether Phogat should receive the silver medal.

However, Higuchi expressed his disapproval of the two-day weigh-in process in wrestling events. “I don’t like the rules where you have to make weight for the second day, but we play sports by the rules. And the rules are the same for everyone,” he added.

As the world awaits the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) verdict on Phogat’s matter, Higuchi remains hopeful that she will find the strength to overcome this setback and continue her wrestling career.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Silver 'Snatched' Away, Says PR Sreejesh

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Silver ‘Snatched’ Away, Says PR Sreejesh

Legendary Indian hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has expressed his sympathy for wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was controversially disqualified from the Tokyo Olympics after weighing 100 grams over the permissible limit. Sreejesh believes that Phogat deserved a silver medal for her historic achievement of becoming the first Indian female wrestler to reach an Olympic final.

Phogat’s disqualification has sparked outrage in India, with many questioning the fairness of the decision. The wrestler has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) for a joint silver medal, but the verdict is still pending. Sreejesh, who retired after winning a bronze medal at the Paris Games, said he was deeply affected by Phogat’s situation.

“If I was in her situation, I don’t know what I would have done,” Sreejesh said. “She was strong, she deserved a medal. It was snatched from her.”

However, Sreejesh also emphasized the importance of adhering to Olympic rules. He cited the case of Amit Rohidas, who was banned for lifting his stick during the quarter-final against Great Britain, resulting in India playing with 10 men for 42 minutes.

“The rules are made to make the game beautiful, controlled,” Sreejesh said. “Indian athletes should be ready for that. They shouldn’t give any chance to the federation, the organizing committee, or the International Olympic Committee (IOC).”

Sreejesh expressed his hope that Phogat’s case would serve as a lesson for all Indian athletes. He urged them to be strict with rules and regulations to avoid similar situations in the future.

“I am keeping my fingers crossed for Vinesh,” Sreejesh said. “I know what she has been through. Qualifying for the Olympics final is an answer for all. I really felt bad for her, it’s a tough situation.”

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Fate Hangs in Balance as CAS Verdict Looms

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Fate Hangs in Balance as CAS Verdict Looms

Vinesh Phogat, India’s wrestling icon and a medal hopeful for the Paris Olympics, faces an anxious wait for the outcome of her appeal against her disqualification from the 50kg freestyle event at the Tokyo Games. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has extended the deadline for the verdict to August 16, 2024.

Phogat’s disqualification stemmed from her failure to meet the weight requirement for the 50kg category. Despite shedding weight overnight, she was found to be 100 grams overweight at the second weigh-in, resulting in her disqualification and the awarding of the silver medal to Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez.

The decision sparked outrage in India, with Phogat and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) filing an appeal with CAS. A team of French lawyers and renowned Indian counsels Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania have been engaged to represent Phogat’s case.

Phogat’s disqualification has been a major setback in her Olympic aspirations. The 29-year-old wrestler has been a dominant force in the 50kg and 53kg categories, winning multiple medals at the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. She was considered a strong contender for a medal in Paris.

However, Phogat’s off-the-mat struggles have also cast a shadow over her career. She was a key figure in the sit-in protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, over allegations of sexual harassment. The Delhi Police have filed an FIR in the case, and a verdict is pending.

Despite the challenges, Phogat remains determined to fight for her Olympic dream. The CAS verdict on August 16 will be a crucial moment in her career, determining whether she can continue her quest for an Olympic medal in Paris.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Silver Medal Verdict Postponed Again

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Silver Medal Verdict Postponed Again

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic silver medal verdict has been postponed yet again by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The verdict, initially expected before the conclusion of the Paris Olympics 2024, has now been deferred to August 16.

Phogat’s appeal stems from her disqualification in the 53kg freestyle wrestling semifinals at the Tokyo Olympics. The Indian wrestler had initially defeated Cuban opponent Yusneylis Guzman Lopez but was disqualified for using an illegal hold. Lopez was subsequently promoted to the final, where she lost to Japan’s Mayu Mukaida.

In her appeal, Phogat argues that she should be awarded a joint silver medal with Lopez. The CAS ad hoc division president has granted an extension to the sole arbitrator, Hon. Dr. Annabelle Bennett, until 6:00 p.m. (Paris time) on August 16, 2024, to issue the verdict.

The postponement has led to the cancellation of a scheduled Zoom meeting between IOA President Dr. PT Usha and Senior Counsel Mr. Harish Salve, who represented the Indian Olympic Association at the CAS hearing.

Phogat’s disqualification at the Tokyo Olympics sparked controversy and raised questions about the fairness of the decision. The Indian wrestler has maintained her innocence and expressed confidence in her appeal.

The CAS verdict is eagerly awaited by Phogat and her supporters. A positive outcome could potentially rewrite the history of the Tokyo Olympics and grant her the recognition she believes she deserves.

Indian Women's Hockey Team Celebrates Men's Bronze, Reflects on Missed Olympic Opportunity

Indian Women’s Hockey Team Celebrates Men’s Bronze, Reflects on Missed Olympic Opportunity

Indian Women’s Hockey Team Celebrates Men’s Bronze, Reflects on Missed Olympic Opportunity

As the Indian men’s hockey team celebrated their historic bronze medal victory in Tokyo, a bittersweet feeling washed over the women’s team at the SAI Bengaluru hostel. While they rejoiced in their countrymen’s triumph, they couldn’t help but feel a pang of regret for their own missed opportunity.

The women’s team had come agonizingly close to qualifying for the Paris Olympics, but their hopes were dashed by a 0-1 loss to Japan in the third-place playoff of the FIH Olympic qualifiers. The disappointment was palpable, as they had spent countless hours training and sacrificing to achieve their Olympic dream.

“We were overjoyed for the men’s team,” said Salima Tete, captain of the national women’s hockey team. “But we also wished we could have been there with them.”

The team has since undergone a coaching change, with Harendra Singh replacing Janneke Schopman. They are now focused on preparing for the upcoming World Cup and Asian Games.

“We came very close but didn’t qualify,” said Tete. “It hurts a lot. We spend months together in camp, away from family, working hard, so it’s tough to come to terms with missing out on an Olympics.”

For Savita Punia, the 34-year-old goalkeeper, the World Cup and Asian Games are her immediate priorities. She is determined to make the most of her remaining time in the sport.

“For women, once we get married, family becomes a priority,” said Punia. “I’m happy my husband and in-laws encourage me to pursue my career. But I don’t want to think too far ahead. I just want us to win the Asian Games.”

Despite their disappointment, the women’s team has been inspired by the men’s team’s success. They believe that with hard work and determination, they can achieve their own Olympic dream in 2028.

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