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Published 14:15 IST, July 18th 2024

From Neeraj Chopra to PV Sindhu: Top-10 Premier Medal Hopes For India In Paris Olympics

Ahead of the start of the Paris Olympics, let's contemplate a list of Top-10 athletes who could finish at the podium at the marquee event.

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Neeraj Chopra and PV Sindhu | Image: PTI
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The Paris Olympics are approaching, and Team India is ready for an extraordinary journey, striving to exceed their record of 7 medals and leave a lasting impression on the world stage with 117 qualified athletes. Let's delve into who among them are the top contenders for Olympic glory.\

1.) Neeraj Chopra

 Neeraj Chopra (Javelin Throw): He is the defending Olympic champion in men's javelin. Though he is still struggling with an adductor niggle, given the fighter he is, he might win a medal. (Photo: AP)

Leading the charge is Neeraj Chopra, the javelin throw sensation who captured gold at Tokyo 2020 and subsequently claimed the title of World Champion. Neeraj is now poised to etch his name in history again as he strives to become the first Indian to clinch two Olympic gold medals, setting his sights on the elusive 90-meter mark as well, at the Paris Olympics.

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2.) Kishore Jena

Kishore Jena. (AP Image)

Joining Neeraj in the quest for javelin throw supremacy is Kishore Jena, fresh off his silver medal triumph at the Asian Games in Hangzhou. With aspirations set high, Kishore aims to follow in Neeraj's footsteps and secure a podium finish in Paris.

3.) Mirabai Chanu

Mirabai Chanu Saikhom of India competes in the women's 49kg weightlifting event, at the 2020 Summer Olympics (Photo | AP)

In weightlifting, all eyes are on Mirabai Chanu, who garnered silver at the Tokyo Olympics and now sets her sights on gold, eager to elevate India's medal count in Paris.

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4.) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty

India's Chirag Shetty, background, and India's Satwiksairaj Rankireddy in action during their Men's Doubles match(AP)

Moving to the badminton courts, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty have cemented their place as a formidable duo, clinching every major title from the Commonwealth Games to the World Championships and claiming the top spot in men's doubles rankings. They stand as strong contenders to bring home a gold medal for India.

5.) Lakshay Sen

Lakshya Sen will face Indonesian Jonatan Christie in the semifinals. (BAI)

Alongside them, Lakshay Sen, a rising star in badminton, carries immense potential and promise for India's medal aspirations.

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6.) Avinash Sable

Avinash Sable won Gold in men's 3000m steeplechase

On the track, Avinash Sable has rewritten Indian athletics history with his gold medal win in the 3000m steeplechase and a national record-breaking run. His journey to Paris promises to captivate as he aims to inspire a nation with another stellar performance.

7.) Sift Kaur Samra

Indian shooter Sift Kaur Samra reacts after winning the gold in the women's 50m rifle 3 positions event at the 19th Asian Games(PTI)

In rifle shooting, Sift Kaur Samra holds the distinction of being a world record holder in the women's 50m rifle event, poised to shine brightly and pursue glory at the Paris Olympics.

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8.) Nikhat Zareen

Nikhat Zareen is through to the semis of Asian Games.(PTI)

Turning to boxing, Nikhat Zareen, a two-time world champion, makes her much-anticipated Olympic debut, carrying high hopes for a podium finish.

9.) Lovlina Borgohain

Lovlina Borgohain, with her bronze in Tokyo and silver at the Asian Games, remains a strong contender to add to India's medal tally in Paris.

10.) PV Sindhu

PV Sindhu shouldn't be judged by recent results, her performances have been quite good: Saina Nehwal

Last but certainly not least, PV Sindhu, affectionately dubbed 'The Queen', brings her experience and determination to the court. Despite challenges and fluctuating form, Sindhu's pursuit of becoming the first Indian to secure three Olympic medals fuels her quest for greatness in Paris, following her silver in Rio 2016 and bronze in Tokyo 2020.

With these exceptional athletes leading the charge, Team India stands poised to showcase their talent and determination at the Paris Olympics. Stay tuned as we bring you all the excitement and updates from this monumental event.

14:15 IST, July 18th 2024