Paris 2024: Sarabjot Singh’s Journey To The Podium
Sarabjot Singh has marked a remarkable milestone in Indian sports by clinching a bronze medal in the 10m Air Pistol mixed team event at the Paris Olympics 2024. Partnering with Manu Bhaker, Singh played a crucial role in securing India’s second medal at Paris 2024, overcoming earlier setbacks to achieve his dream. The Indian duo displayed exceptional skill and composure at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre, defeating South Korea 16-10 in the final. Sarabjot Singh contributed by scoring 110.2 points out of India’s total of 261.3. His performance included pivotal shots of 10.2 and 10.5 that ensured India’s victory. From Humble Beginnings to Olympic Stardom Sarabjot Singh hails from Dheen village in Ambala, Haryana, where his father Jatinder Singh works as a farmer and his mother Hardeep Kaur is a homemaker. His introduction to shooting came during his childhood at a summer camp, where he was captivated by the sight of children using air guns. Though initially aspiring to be a footballer, Singh’s passion shifted to shooting after this experience. In 2014, at the age of 13, Singh expressed his desire to pursue shooting to his father. Despite concerns about the sport’s cost, Singh’s persistent efforts convinced his family to support his decision. His early foray into shooting was marked by a silver medal in his debut district-level tournament, which set the stage for his future successes. Rise to Prominence Singh’s ascent in the shooting world began in earnest when he joined the AR Shooting Academy in Ambala Cantt, training under coach Abhishek Rana. His dedication quickly paid off as he won gold medals at the 2019 Junior World Championship and achieved significant success in subsequent competitions. Singh secured the Asian Games team gold and mixed team silver in 2023 and an individual bronze at the 2023 Asian Championships, which earned him a quota place for the Paris Olympics 2024. Despite his impressive track record, Singh faced a heart-wrenching moment at the Paris Games when he missed out on the final of the men’s 10m pistol event by a narrow margin, finishing ninth with a score of 577-16x. The deciding factor was a single inner 10, highlighting the intense competition and precision required in Olympic shooting. A Triumphant Redemption Sarabjot Singh’s Olympic journey took a triumphant turn with the bronze medal win in the 10m Air Pistol mixed team event. His contribution was crucial as he and Manu Bhaker maintained their lead throughout the match, eventually securing a comfortable victory. Singh was awarded with his first Olympic medal. Click here to know more on how the game went. Manu Bhaker, who had previously won a bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol event, became the first Indian to win multiple medals at a single Olympic Games. Sarabjot Singh’s achievement places him among the elite shooters to have represented India on this prestigious stage. Sarabjot Singh’s journey from a young boy with a dream to an Olympic medalist serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Paris 2024: A Double Dhamaka For India In Shooting
India has clinched its second medal at the Paris Olympics 2024, thanks to a stellar performance by Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh. The duo triumphed over South Korea’s Wonho Lee and Ye Jin Oh in the bronze medal playoff match of the 10m air pistol mixed team event, winning by a decisive 16-10 margin. Manu Bhaker’s remarkable feat at Paris Olympics 2024 has been historic. By securing this bronze, she became the first Indian female athlete to win two medals in a single Olympic edition. Bhaker had previously earned a bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol event on July 28, 2024. Know more on manu Bhaker’s redemption story here. One-Sided Victory in the Bronze Medal Match The match against the South Korean pair was largely one-sided, with Bhaker and Singh dominating the competition. This victory not only added a second medal to India’s tally but also brought to the attention Bhaker’s remarkable consistency in shooting. As the day progresses, India eagerly awaits for more medals from their athletes. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Paris 2024: Prize Money To Be Received By Medal Winners
The Paris Olympics 2024 has taken the world by storm. The contestants and the teams are in a rush for gold. The coaches have been on the edge of their seats. The fans have been in anticipation, backing their countries to bag gold. Excitement Builds for Paris 2024 As the world gathers for the Paris Olympics 2024, there’s an electric buzz in the air. Athletes, coaches, and fans are all on edge, hoping for moments of triumph. For Indian athletes, this isn’t just about chasing sporting glory; it’s also about the chance to transform their lives financially. The impact of winning an Olympic medal can be especially profound for athletes from smaller nations and less developed economies. Rewards for Tokyo 2020 Team India Medalists Neeraj Chopra’s gold medal in javelin throw not only made history but also earned him a whopping Rs 6 crore from the Haryana government. Indian medalists received various accolades and financial support from their state governments, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and private companies. Mirabai Chanu, who won silver in weightlifting, was awarded Rs 1 crore by Manipur, while Ravi Kumar Dahiya received Rs 4 crore from Haryana for his silver in wrestling. PV Sindhu and Lovlina Borgohain, who both won bronze, were also rewarded handsomely by their states, Telangana and Assam respectively. Bajrang Punia, another bronze medalist, received Rs 25 lakh from Haryana. Also read about Indian athletes and their net worth here. Support from Central and Private Entities In addition to these state rewards, the central government also pitched in, offering Rs 75 lakh for gold, Rs 50 lakh for silver, and Rs 30 lakh for bronze. The IOA matched these efforts, giving Rs 75 lakh for gold, Rs 40 lakh for silver and Rs 25 lakh for bronze. The BCCI recognized Neeraj Chopra’s achievement with Rs 1 crore and other medalists received decent amounts too. Ed-tech firm BYJU’S added to the joy, gifting Rs 2 crore to Neeraj and Rs 1 crore to other medalists. Anticipated Rewards for Paris 2024 Medalists As the Paris Olympics 2024 have begun, Indian athletes are hopeful for even greater rewards. The IOA has upped the ante, promising Rs 1 crore for gold medalists, Rs 75 lakh for silver, and Rs 50 lakh for bronze, in addition to what the Indian government will provide. However, specific state rewards are still awaited. International Cash Prizes and Organizers’ Recognition On the international front, the World Athletics and International Boxing Association have announced generous cash prizes of USD 50,000 (Rs 42 lakh) and USD 100,000 (Rs 84 lakh) for gold medalists in track and field and boxing, respectively. While the World Athletics has pioneered offering prize money, other sporting federations have yet to declare similar rewards. Despite the financial windfalls, the most immediate and visible prize for the athletes is still the medals themselves and the bouquet they receive on the podium. As team India athletes compete for their moment of glory, the Paris Olympics 2024 is set to be a celebration of not just athletic excellence but also life-changing rewards. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Paris 2024: Manu Bhaker’s Redemption: From Tokyo Heartbreak to Paris Triumph
Three years ago, Manu Bhaker faced the world’s gaze under the harsh spotlight of Olympic failure at Tokyo 2020. As a teenager making her debut, her experience was overshadowed by a weapon malfunction and a series of disappointing performances. The weight of expectations and the sting of defeat nearly crushed her spirit. A Comeback For The AgesYet, true champions rise from adversity. Manu Bhaker’s journey back to form is a tale of bravery. Rather than stepping away, she confronted her struggles head-on, enduring the intense mental and physical challenges of elite sport. Her determination turned past setbacks into stepping stones. Redefining the Path ForwardIn the wake of Tokyo, Bhaker chose not to disappear but to transform. She stayed engaged with her fans on social media, continued to compete at high levels and found new passions like playing the violin and dancing. Reuniting for SuccessOne of Manu Bhaker’s boldest moves was reconnecting with former coach Jaspal Rana. Despite a public and painful fallout before Tokyo, she reached out to him, showing incredible maturity and a willingness to set aside personal grievances for the sake of her career. This decision was crucial, helping her regain her competitive edge and confidence. Paris TriumphOn Saturday, Bhaker’s hard work and resilience shone through at the Paris Olympics 2024. She made it to her first Olympic final with a strong showing in the qualifiers and kept her cool under pressure. Although she narrowly missed silver by just 0.1 points, her bronze medal was surely an achievement to be celebrated. As Manu Bhaker gears up for the 25m pistol and mixed team events, this medal might be only the first of many to come. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Paris 2024: India Shines Bright at the Opening Ceremony
The Indian contingent made a spectacular entrance at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024, setting a vibrant tone for the Games. Grand Parade Through Paris The grand Parade of Nations, held along the scenic Seine River, saw the Indian athletes and officials parade through the heart of Paris. The delegation, comprising 78 members across 12 disciplines, captivated the audience with their enthusiasm and commitment to excellence. Flagbearers Leading the parade were star shuttler PV Sindhu and veteran table tennis player Sharath Kamal, who had the honor of serving as India’s flag bearers. This historic moment marked the first time athletes from their respective sports took on this prestigious role at the Olympics. Sindhu and Kamal’s participation not only highlighted their personal achievements but also underscored India’s rich sporting legacy. Iconic Parisian Backdrop The parade route, lined with iconic Parisian landmarks, offered a breathtaking backdrop for the event. The boats carrying the athletes passed by the restored Cathedral of Notre Dame, which had been devastated by a fire five years ago, and the renowned Louvre Museum. The route also included several Games venues, adding to the excitement. Spectacular Entertainment Spectators were treated to lively dance and music performances on the bridges along the parade route. Over two lakh free tickets were distributed, with an additional one lakh tickets sold, drawing enthusiastic crowds to various spots to witness the festivities. The grand opening ceremony set the stage for what promises to be an exciting Paris Olympics 2024, with India’s athletes ready to strike gold. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Paris 2024: Why Was A Hat Chosen As The Mascot?
The Paris Olympics 2024 mascots, at first glance appearing as red triangles with arms, are actually Phrygian caps — an enduring symbol of freedom in French history. Announced in 2022, these mascots carry the mission of demonstrating to the world that sport has the power to transform lives and deserves a central role in society. Tony Estanguet, President of the Paris Olympics 2024, emphasized that the mascots embody the vision of the Games, representing ideals rather than animals. The Phrygian cap, a familiar symbol seen on French stamps and town hall pediments, represents liberty and the French identity and spirit. Named “The Phryges” and pronounced “free-jes,” these mascots aim to encourage people to get active. Historical Significance of the Phrygian Cap The Phrygian cap’s origins trace back to present-day Turkey as early as 800 B.C., where it was a mark of free men in classical Greece, worn by freed slaves. In France, the red peaked hat became a significant symbol during the French Revolution of 1789 and is seen on busts of Marianne, the embodiment of the French Republic. Workers constructing landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower also wore these hats. The Phrygian cap has also influenced American history, appearing in images from the American Revolution and early 19th-century American art and coins. The Olympic and Paralympic Phryge The Olympic Phryge is depicted as a thoughtful and astute strategist, reflecting the spirit of Olympic athletes who measure various parameters to achieve their goals. With a sharp mind and modest demeanor, the Olympic Phryge will lead the movement of those who take part in sports, inspiring activity and determination across France. The Paralympic version of the mascot features a running prosthetic, symbolizing fearlessness and a passion for blazing trails. Regardless of the sport, she is always eager to compete and play. A Tradition of Olympic Mascots Olympic mascots, acting as ambassadors of the Olympic spirit, have been a tradition since the 1968 Winter Games in Grenoble, France. The first mascot, Shuss, was a little man on skis, designed in just one night. The 1972 Munich Games featured Waldi, a dachshund, the first mascot in the history of the Summer Games. Since then, mascots such as Schneemandl the snowman, Amik the beaver, Sam the eagle, Hodori the tiger, and Bing Dwen Dwen have embodied the spirit and values of the Games. These mascots not only give a concrete form to the Olympic spirit but also promote the history and culture of the host city, creating a festive atmosphere for the event. Read more about the Olympic mascots over the years here. As Paris prepares for the 2024 Games, the Phryges stand ready to inspire and lead, embodying the ideals of freedom, activity, and the enduring spirit of the Olympics. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Women’s Asia Cup 2024 Final: India Makes It 9 From 9
In a rare and commendable feat, the Indian Women’s Cricket Team has secured their spot in the ninth consecutive Women’s Asia Cup final, solidifying their dominance in the tournament’s history. The Women in Blue are the only team to have featured in all the finals of the Women’s Asia Cup since its inception in 2004. This remarkable achievement underscores the team’s consistent excellence and determination on the field. Consistent Excellence in the Asia Cup The Indian Women’s team is set to face Sri Lanka in the final of the Women’s Asia Cup 2024, continuing their legacy of reaching the summit clash in every edition of the tournament. Over the past two decades, the team’s performance in the Asia Cup has been nothing short of spectacular. Out of the nine editions played so far, India has emerged victorious on eight occasions. Their only loss came in 2018, when they were defeated by the Bangladesh Women’s team in a closely contested final. Eager Anticipation for Another Historic Victory As the Women in Blue prepare to take on Sri Lanka, they aim to add another trophy to their illustrious record, further cementing their status as the powerhouse of women’s cricket in Asia. Fans and cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the final, hoping to witness another historic moment for the Indian Women’s Cricket Team. The Indian Domination The Women’s Asia Cup has seen India dominate the tournament since its inception in 2004. India clinched the title in the first six editions, defeating Sri Lanka in the finals four times (2004, 2005, 2006, 2008) and Pakistan twice (2012, 2016). In 2018, Bangladesh broke India’s winning streak by securing the title in Malaysia, with India finishing as runners-up. India regained their champion status in 2022, hosted by Bangladesh, defeating Sri Lanka in the final. As India is now all set to battle it out against Sri Lanka in the final of the Women’s Asia Cup 2024, India remains a strong contender for the title, maintaining their consistent performance in the Women’s Asia Cup over the years. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony: A Grand Spectacle Unveiled
In an unprecedented display of grandeur, Paris inaugurated the 33rd Olympic Games with an extraordinary Opening Ceremony held along the Seine. This historic event, taking place after a century, featured a breathtaking journey through Parisian landmarks and concluded with a dazzling finale at the Eiffel Tower. A Blend of Tradition and Modernity The City of Light, adorned with its iconic Eiffel Tower and majestic architecture, was transformed into a surreal canvas of color and light. Conceptualized by Thierry Reboul and directed by Thomas Jolly, the ceremony blended history with contemporary artistry, celebrating the Olympics’ return to Paris after 100 years. A Journey Through Parisian Heritage The six kilometer long parade began at the Austerlitz Bridge beside the Jardin des Plantes. The route offered a picturesque view of Olympic venues including Parc Urbain La Concorde, the Esplanade des Invalides and the Grand Palais. The parade concluded at the Trocadero, where the grand finale took place. A Spectacle of Color and Music The ceremony featured a flotilla of 85 boats carrying 6,800 athletes, with Greece leading the way as the first host of the Games. Following Greece was the Refugee Olympic Team, highlighting contemporary global issues. The event was attended by hundreds of thousands of spectators, some of whom enjoyed the spectacle for free. The night sky was illuminated by water fountains and complemented by a series of performances, including a cabaret show by Lady Gaga and musical acts from top French artists like Aya Nakamura. The atmosphere was further enriched by 71 giant screens and 170 cameras, ensuring the magical experience reached every corner of Paris. Indian Contingent Shines Bright The Indian delegation, dressed in ceremonial attire featuring tricolour-themed designer kurtas and sarees, made their presence felt. Seventy-eight athletes and officials from 12 disciplines participated in the parade, led by double Olympic medallist P.V. Sindhu and five-time Olympian Sharath Kamal. Other Indian participants included archers Deepika Kumari and Tarundeep Rai, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, shooters Anjum Moudgil, Sift Kaur Samra, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Anish Bhanwala, paddler Manika Batra and tennis player Rohan Bopanna. Here’s a guide on how you can follow Paris Olympics 2024. As twilight descended, the bridges over the Seine were illuminated, setting the stage for the Olympic flame, marking the start of the much awaited Paris Olympics 2024. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Paris 2024: Dhiraj Bommadevara- The Rising Star of Indian Archery
Indian archer Dhiraj Bommadevara has captured the spotlight at the Paris Olympics 2024 with an impressive fourth-place finish in the men’s archery ranking round. The 22-year-old’s remarkable performance has not only boosted his individual standing but also propelled the Indian team to the quarterfinals. Team Effort and Individual Excellence Dhiraj demonstrated exceptional skill and composure, scoring 681 points. His late surge in the rankings was instrumental in guiding India forward in the team event. Teammates Tarundeep Rai and Pravin Jadhav finished 14th and 39th respectively, showcasing a strong collective effort. Journey from Vijayawada to the Olympics Hailing from Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, Dhiraj’s journey to the Olympics has been marked by a series of achievements. His father, Bommadevara Shravan Kumar, a technical official with the Archery Association of India, has been a crucial influence in his career. Dhiraj began his training at the Volga Archery Academy in Vijayawada in 2006 and later joined the Indian Army in 2021 after four years of rigorous training at the Army Sports Institute in Pune. International Achievements and Rankings Ranked 15th in the world, Dhiraj secured his place at the Paris Olympics by qualifying in Bangkok. Leading up to the competition, he clinched a bronze medal at the World Cup 2024 in Antalya, Turkey, adding to his impressive resume. He was also a key member of the Indian men’s team that won a silver medal at the Asian Games 2023, alongside archers Atanu Das and Tushar Shelke, where they narrowly lost to the Republic of Korea in the final. Early Success and Continued Growth Dhiraj made his international debut in 2017 and experienced his first major success in 2021 by winning a gold medal at the World Archer Youth Championships. His rise in the sport has been swift and consistent, reflecting his dedication and talent. Inspiration and Pride for India Dhiraj Bommadevara’s outstanding performance at the Paris Olympics 2024 is a testament to his hard work and perseverance. As he continues to make strides in the world of archery, he remains a source of inspiration and pride for India. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
SL vs IND: Team India’s ODI Team Combination Blueprint
The Indian Cricket Team would be taking on Sri Lanka in a day’s time. The T20I leg of the series starts from the 27th of July, 2024 with the 1st T20I at Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The ODI’s start from the 2nd of August, 2024 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Focussing on the ODI’s, the Indian Cricket Team is in search of balance and right combinations as the men in blue prepare for the Champions Trophy 2025 and also the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2027. However, there are a couple of questions to be answered. The Best Fit Out of KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant? The ODI squad composition is under scrutiny, particularly the middle-order spots. With Rohit, Gill and Kohli cemented at the top and Hardik Pandya’s place secured when fit, the selectors face a dilemma. KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, once mainstays, now find their positions challenged by Rishabh Pant. Pant’s recovery and subsequent performance have put him back in contention, making the Sri Lanka ODIs crucial for these players to stake their claim. The selectors might have to make tough choices, balancing between batting depth and allrounder utility. What Can We Expect from India’s Fast-Bowling Cartel? Managing a heavy test match schedule on the horizon is a must. Jasprit Bumrah has been rested while Mohammed Shami is on a comeback trail from injury. Mohammed Siraj is expected to lead the bowling attack in both formats during the tour. Arshdeep Singh, having established himself in T20Is will look to impress in the 50-over format. Khaleel Ahmed and Harshit Rana, selected for T20Is and ODIs respectively, along with Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, and Mayank Yadav, have opportunities to make a mark in the Indian bowling lineup. With the questions on the right player to man the middle order and the rising stars set to take responsibility, India’s tour of Sri Lanka surely is going to be a ‘Gambhir Maamla’ to watch out for. Also read about what’s happening with the Indian Cricket Team in T20Is here. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye