New Delhi: India’s quest for gold at the Paris Olympics 2024 ended in disappointment as heavyweight wrestler Ritika Hooda (76 kg category) was defeated, dashing the nation’s hopes for additional medals. India concluded the games with a total of six medals, including one silver. This outcome marks a significant decline from the Tokyo Olympics, where India secured a more robust medal haul.
Ritika Hooda’s Defeat Ends India’s Medal Hopes
Ritika Hooda’s loss in the 76 kg wrestling category was a crucial blow to India’s campaign. Her exit came after the wrestler from Kyrgyzstan, who defeated her, failed to reach the finals, eliminating any chance for Ritika to compete in the repechage round. This defeat confirmed that India would finish with fewer medals than the seven it achieved in Tokyo three years ago.
India Slips in the Medal Tally
At the Tokyo Olympics, India made history with 1 gold, 2 silver, and 4 bronze medals, finishing 48th in the medal tally. However, the Paris Olympics saw India slip to the 71st position, a significant drop largely attributed to the absence of a gold medal this time. India’s only silver was won by Tokyo champion Neeraj Chopra, while the remaining five medals were bronze, including three in shooting, one in hockey, and one in wrestling.
A Potential Seventh Medal on the Horizon
While the Paris Olympics officially conclude on August 11, there remains a glimmer of hope for India to increase its medal count. Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to be awarded a silver medal. A decision is expected on Tuesday. If Vinesh’s appeal is successful, she would become the first Indian female wrestler to win a silver medal, and India’s total medal count would rise to seven, potentially elevating the country to 68th place in the medal standings.
A Reflective End to India’s Paris Olympics Campaign
As India’s athletes prepare to return from Paris, the nation must reflect on the challenges faced during these games and the steps needed to improve in future international competitions. Despite the lower medal count, the determination and efforts of athletes like Ritika Hooda and Neeraj Chopra continue to inspire, underscoring the resilience of Indian sports on the global stage.
summary of India’s medal winners at the Paris 2024 Olympics:
| Sport | Player | Medal |
|---|---|---|
| Shooting | Manu Bhaker | Bronze |
| Shooting | Manu Bhaker (with Sarabjot Singh) | Bronze (Mixed Team 10m Air Pistol) |
| Shooting | Swapnil Kusale | Bronze (50m Rifle 3 Positions) |
| Javelin Throw | Neeraj Chopra | Silver |
| Wrestling | Aman Sehrawat | Bronze |
| Hockey | Indian Men’s Hockey Team | Bronze |
