The Olympic Games are a prestigious multi-sport event that brings together thousands of athletes from across the globe. Recognized as the world’s premier sports championship, the Olympics see participation from over 200 nations, with competitions held every four years, alternating between the Summer and Winter Olympics.
Tokyo 2020: A Historic Event
In 2021, the capital of Japan, Tokyo, hosted this esteemed international sports event. Despite being referred to as Tokyo 2020, the event took place from July 23 to August 8, 2021, due to the pandemic-induced delay. A total of 205 countries participated, with more than 11,000 athletes competing.
The United States topped the medal tally with 113 medals, followed by the People’s Republic of China with 88 medals, and Japan securing the third position with 58 medals.
India’s Memorable Achievements
India celebrated a historic performance, securing 33rd place with a total of 7 medals: one gold, two silver, and four bronze.
- Mirabai Chanu: The journey began on the first day with Mirabai Chanu winning a silver medal in the women’s 49 kg weightlifting event.
- PV Sindhu: She won the bronze medal in women’s singles badminton, defeating HE Bing Jiao of China with a score of 21-13, 21-15.
- Lovlina Borgohain: The 23-year-old welterweight boxer earned a bronze medal by defeating the 2018 world champion Chen Nien-Chin in the quarterfinals.
- Indian Men’s Hockey Team: After a 41-year wait, the Indian Men’s Hockey team secured a bronze medal, marking a significant achievement for the country.
- Ravi Kumar Dahiya: The 23-year-old wrestler reached the finals of the 57kg freestyle wrestling event, winning a silver medal and becoming one of six Indian athletes in history to achieve this feat.
- Bajrang Punia: A three-time World Championships medallist, Bajrang Punia won a bronze medal in men’s 65 kg wrestling, becoming the first Indian wrestler to gain medals in both the Olympics and the World Championships.
- Neeraj Chopra: India’s golden moment came with Neeraj Chopra’s victory in the javelin throw. He became the first athlete from Independent India to win a gold medal in a track and field event.
Closing Ceremony and Looking Ahead
The Tokyo 2020 Games concluded on August 8, 2021, with a closing ceremony held at the Olympic Stadium under strict anti-coronavirus measures. Bajrang Punia, the bronze medallist wrestler, led the Indian contingent during the parade of athletes.
As we bid farewell to the Tokyo Olympics, anticipation builds for the next Summer Games, scheduled to be held in Paris in 2024. See you in Paris!