Badminton, archery, boxing: India’s Paris hopefuls falter, finish without medalAfter a historic performance at the Tokyo Olympics three years ago, where India set new records with a contingent of 117 athletes, hopes were high for an even better showing at the Paris Olympics 2024. There was anticipation that India might achieve a double-digit medal count for the first time in history. However, despite some bright moments, the campaign ended with six medals—one silver and five bronze.The total medal count could still change, pending a decision on wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s appeal for a silver medal. While India fell just one medal short of its Tokyo tally, the Paris Olympics marked its third-best performance at the Summer Games, following Tokyo 2020 and London 2012. India’s archery, badminton, and boxing teams were considered strong medal contenders, but none of these sports managed a podium finish in the recently-concluded Paris Games.
Archery
India’s archery team faced another disappointing Olympic run. Deepika Kumari’s struggles on the Olympic stage continued, while Tarundeep Rai and Pravin Jadhav also failed to make a significant impact. Only Dhiraj Bommadevara and Ankita Bhakat, along with Bhajan Kaur to some extent, managed to enhance their reputations.Badminton
For the first time since 2008, India’s badminton contingent returned from the Olympics without a medal. Despite recent successes in team events, such as the Thomas Cup victory in 2022 and the Badminton Asia Team Championships in 2023, these achievements did not translate to individual glory in Paris.Boxing
India’s boxing contingent endured a tough outing at the Paris Olympics, with none of the pugilists securing a spot on the podium.
Though the boxers were handed difficult draws, such challenges are expected at the Olympics. Reigning world champions Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain, both tipped for medals, failed to deliver, while Nishant Dev’s promising run also came to an end.
