Picture Credit: X
The 2024 Paris Olympics were finally declared open after an extravagant opening ceremony at river Seine in the French capital city of Paris. While the ceremony got athletes from different parts of the world under one roof for the next 15 days in its own unique style. For India, veteran table tennis player, A. Sharath Kamal and two-time Olympic medallist, PV Sindhu led the way as the flagbearers, accompanied by some 70 more athletes and members of the support staff.
In this article, we will go through all the big news that took place on Friday, July 26 at the Paris 2024.
Boxing
Nikhat Zareen gets tough draw; Nishant, Amit get byes at Paris 2024
Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain have been handed tough draws in the opening round of the Paris Olympics 2024. While Nikhat will take on Germany Carina Kloetzer in women’s 50kg bout, Lovlina (57kg) is set to face Norway’s Sunniva Nofstad. Whereas Amit Panghal and Nishant Dev have received byes in the opening round and will be seen in Round of 16 clash at Paris 2024.
Tennis
Elena Rybakina withdraws from Paris Olympics 2024
World No. 3 and star Kazakhstan player, Elena Rybakina, on Friday, July 26 announced her withdrawal from the Paris Olympics. The Kazakh international, who was named in the initial draw for the Paris 2024, announced her decision to pull out, citing her recovery process. Furthermore, her withdrawal in the women’s singles led France’s Caroline Garcia to move in the main draw as 17th seeded.
Rafael Nadal doubtful for 2024 Paris Olympics; coach shares big update
Rafael Nadal’s coach Carlos Moya on Thursday shared a big update on the 38-year-old's participation at the Paris 2024. Speaking after the draws, Moya said, “I can’t guarantee anything, neither that he won’t play or he will play. At the moment he needs rest, undergo treatment.” Nadal sustained a thigh injury, forcing him to miss training on Thursday.
Sumit Nagal trains with Casper Ruud ahead of first-round match
Indian tennis player Sumit Nagal began preparation for his second Olympics appearance, having a training session at Roland Garros on Friday. Hours before the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, Nagal shared a photo of him training with former French Open runner-up Casper Ruud.
Basketball
Australia’s Rebecca Allen withdraws from Paris Olympics 2024
Australian women’s basketball team’s shooting guard, Rebecca Allen withdrew from the Paris Olympics 2024 one day before its commencement. Allen suffered a hamstring injury in the final warm-up game against Canada, which ultimately led her to pulling out from what could have been her second Olympics. Allen will be replaced by 26-year-old Amy Atwell, who will make her Olympic debut.
Others
Greatest honour of my life: PV Sindhu on being India's flagbearer at Paris 2024
India's flagbearers PV Sindu and Achanta Sharath Kamal expressed delight at having been chosen to lead the Indian team at the Parade of Nations in the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024. Sindhu, who is eyeing her third Olympic medal, said she was honoured to have the opportunity to lead the Indian contingent. The senior paddler, on the other hand, revealed he was visualing the moment for the last three to four months.
PV Sindhu, Sharath Kamal lead India on River Seine at Paris 2024 opening ceremony
PV Sindhu and Sharath Kamal led India at the Parade of Nations on the River Seine during the extravagant opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics on Friday, July 26. Sindhu and Sharath looked thrilled as they had the honour of leading India's contingent on the opening day of the Paris Games.
