Top Indian Medal Contenders for Paris Olympics: A Closer Look

As the Paris Olympics draw near, ESPN India delves into India's prime medal prospects, analyzing their strengths and potential challenges in the upcoming games.

Neeraj Chopra

Who: Defending men's javelin Olympic champion, the first Indian track and field athlete to secure Olympic gold.

Strengths: Neeraj excels in the 87-89m range where most top throwers have been operating this year. Despite not surpassing the 90m mark, his consistency within this range sets him apart. His 88.36m throw at the Doha Diamond League ranks as the fourth-best of 2024.

Concerns: Injured with an adductor niggle, Neeraj has had limited competition this year, with only 16 in-competition throws. Prioritizing health over contests may impact his form heading into Paris.

Mirabai Chanu

Who: The second Indian weightlifter to medal at the Olympics, securing silver in Tokyo.

Strengths: Among the 12 athletes in her division, only one has crossed the 200kg mark this year—a feat Mirabai has achieved four times in her career. To claim another podium finish, she aims to lift within the 200-210kg range, focusing on improving her snatch to 90kg and achieving a total of 205kg.

Concerns: Hindered by scarce major events and recurring injuries, Mirabai's competitive rhythm suffers, compounded by past wrist, shoulder, and hip issues, posing challenges for her second Olympic appearance.

PV Sindhu

Who: Two-time Olympic medalist eyeing a third medal to become India's most successful individual Olympian.

Strengths: A performer in big tournaments, Sindhu's 62.5% win rate in 2024 mirrors her successful runs in the lead-up to the 2016 Rio and 2021 Tokyo Games, both resulting in medals.

Concerns: While showing promise in her comeback, Sindhu faces difficulties in closing out matches from winning positions, evident in losses at the Malaysia Masters and Singapore Open. Addressing errors under pressure and refining decision-making will be crucial for her Paris campaign.