India’s performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics was nothing short of historic. With a record-breaking haul of seven medals, including one gold, the nation made significant strides on the global sports stage. This achievement marked India’s best-ever performance at the Olympics, surpassing the six medals won at the 2012 London Olympics. Additionally, a record number of Indian athletes—126 across 18 sports—participated in the Tokyo Games, making it the largest contingent India has ever sent to the Olympics. Let’s delve into the details of India’s performance across various sports disciplines at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
1. Neeraj Chopra’s Golden Throw in Javelin
India’s standout moment at Tokyo 2020 was Neeraj Chopra’s spectacular gold medal in the Men’s Javelin Throw. With a throw of 87.58 meters, Neeraj not only secured India’s first-ever Olympic gold in athletics but also ended a 121-year wait for an Olympic medal in track and field.
2. Silver Glory in Weightlifting – Mirabai Chanu
The Tokyo Olympics began on a high note for India with Mirabai Chanu winning a silver medal in the Women’s 49 kg Weightlifting category. Chanu lifted a total of 202 kg (87 kg in snatch and 115 kg in clean and jerk), setting a new Olympic record in the clean and jerk segment.
3. Ravi Kumar Dahiya’s Wrestling Silver
Ravi Kumar Dahiya added another silver to India’s tally in the Men’s 57 kg Wrestling category. His incredible journey to the final, including a memorable semi-final win, showcased his tenacity and skill. Dahiya’s silver is India’s second Olympic silver in wrestling, following Sushil Kumar’s silver in 2012.
4. Historic Bronze in Men’s Hockey
After a gap of 41 years, the Indian Men’s Hockey Team secured a bronze medal, reigniting the country’s passion for the sport. The team’s 5-4 victory over Germany in the bronze medal match was one of the most thrilling moments of the Tokyo Olympics. This achievement also marked India’s 12th Olympic medal in hockey, making it the most successful team in the sport’s Olympic history.
5. Lovlina Borgohain’s Boxing Bronze
Lovlina Borgohain made her Olympic debut memorable by clinching a bronze medal in the Women’s Welterweight (64-69 kg) Boxing category. Her achievement was particularly significant as it continued India’s medal-winning tradition in boxing, following the footsteps of Vijender Singh and Mary Kom.
6. PV Sindhu’s Second Consecutive Olympic Medal
PV Sindhu once again proved her mettle by winning a bronze medal in Women’s Singles Badminton. This was her second consecutive Olympic medal, having won silver in Rio 2016. Sindhu’s victory made her the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medals.
7. Bajrang Punia’s Wrestling Bronze
In the Men’s 65 kg Wrestling category, Bajrang Punia secured a bronze medal, adding to India’s wrestling accolades. His dominant 8-0 win in the bronze medal bout was a testament to his determination and skill.
India’s Medal Tally at Tokyo 2020
- Gold: 1 (Neeraj Chopra – Men’s Javelin Throw)
- Silver: 2 (Mirabai Chanu – Women’s 49 kg Weightlifting, Ravi Kumar Dahiya – Men’s 57 kg Wrestling)
- Bronze: 4 (Men’s Hockey Team, Lovlina Borgohain – Women’s Welterweight Boxing, PV Sindhu – Women’s Singles Badminton, Bajrang Punia – Men’s 65 kg Wrestling)
India’s Participation at Tokyo 2020
India sent a record contingent of 126 athletes to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, competing across 18 sports disciplines. This was the largest number of participants India has ever sent to the Olympics, highlighting the country’s growing commitment to sports and international competition.
Conclusion
India’s performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics is a source of immense pride and inspiration for the nation. The athletes not only brought home medals but also inspired future generations to pursue sports with dedication and passion. As India continues to build on this success, the Tokyo Olympics will be remembered as a turning point in the country’s sporting history.
