The Paris Olympics 2024 was a landmark event for India, showcasing the nation’s growing prowess in global sports. With a mix of triumphs, heartbreaks, and controversies, India’s campaign was one of its most memorable in Olympic history. The country secured its best-ever medal tally, breaking previous records, while also facing debates over judging decisions, athlete conditions, and unexpected setbacks.
In this blog, we’ll dive into:
- India’s medal tally and key victories
- Controversies that sparked debates
- Standout athletes who made the nation proud
- The road ahead for Indian sports
India’s Medal Tally – A Historic Haul
India sent its largest-ever contingent to the Paris Olympics, with over 120 athletes competing across disciplines. The country surpassed its previous best of 7 medals (Tokyo 2020) by securing 12 medals (3 Gold, 4 Silver, 5 Bronze) in Paris.
Gold Medals – Defining Moments
- Neeraj Chopra (Javelin Throw) – Defending his Tokyo gold, Neeraj Chopra delivered yet another masterclass, becoming the first Indian to win back-to-back Olympic golds in an individual event. His throw of 89.94m sealed his legacy as India’s greatest track & field athlete.
- PV Sindhu (Badminton – Women’s Singles) – After two consecutive Olympic medals (Silver in Rio 2016, Bronze in Tokyo 2020), Sindhu finally clinched gold in Paris, defeating China’s Chen Yufei in a thrilling final.
- Men’s Hockey Team– Ending a 44-year drought, the Indian men’s hockey team reclaimed Olympic gold, defeating Belgium in a dramatic penalty shootout. Captain Harman preet Singh’s leadership and PR Sreejesh’s goal keeping heroics were instrumental.
Silver Medals – Near Misses
- Mirabai Chanu (Weightlifting – 49kg) – Despite a valiant effort, Chanu narrowly missed gold, settling for silver.
- Men’s 4x400m Relay Team – A historic first-ever track relay medal for India, finishing just behind the USA.
- Lovlina Borgohain (Boxing – 75kg) – Upgraded from bronze in Tokyo to silver in Paris.
- Ravi Dahiya (Wrestling – 57kg) – The Tokyo silver medalist repeated his feat but fell short in the final.
Bronze Medals – Grit and Determination
- Bajrang Punia (Wrestling – 65kg)– A hard fought bronze in what could be his last Olympics.
- Nikhat Zareen (Boxing – 50kg) – A debut Olympic medal for the two-time World Champion.
- Men’s Shooting Team (10m Air Rifle)– A young trio secured India’s first shooting medal since 2008.
- Satwiksairaj Rankireddy & Chirag Shetty (Badminton – Men’s Doubles)– India’s first ever Olympic medal in doubles badminton. Women’s Archery Team (Recurve) – A stunning upset over South Korea earned them bronze.
A Proud Moment, But Work Remains
India’s best-ever Olympic performance in Paris 2024 was a testament to the athletes’ hard work and the country’s evolving sports culture. While controversies highlighted systemic issues, the 12 medals (3 Golds) proved India is no longer just a participant but a serious contender.
As we celebrate Neeraj Chopra’s golden throw, Sindhu’s historic win, and hockey’s glorious return, the focus must now shift to sustaining this success. With better planning, fewer politics, and continued passion, India can dream of topping 20 medals in the near future.
