Current Affairs - Sports

India's wrestling team achieved success at the U17 World Championship, with three female wrestlers advancing to the semifinals and Greco-Roman wrestler Ronak Dahiya earning a bronze medal. Aditi Kumari reached the 43kg semifinal in Greco-Roman, Neha made it to the 57kg semifinal in freestyle, and Pulkit advanced to the 65kg semifinal in Greco-Roman. Ronak Dahiya ranked No. 2 in the world, won the bronze in Greco-Roman, defeating Turkey's Emrullah Capkan.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the National Olympic Committee of Saudi Arabia have signed a partnership to launch the first Olympic ESports Games. This partnership, aimed at promoting ESports globally, comes after the Olympics Executive Board proposed the ESports Games in 2023. Abhishek Issar, a prominent figure in the esports industry, highlights the potential impact of this partnership and the growth in esports viewership in India, emphasizing the importance of such collaborations in elevating esports to Olympic status. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia's efforts to expand sports participation and hosting of international events, marking a significant step in bridging the gap between traditional sports and the digital gaming arena.

The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) appointed Satya Prakash Sangwan as the Chef de Mission (CMD) for the Indian team in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Sangwan, with 10 years of service and a background as Vice-President of PCI, will lead 84 para-athletes from India, ensuring their support and success on the global stage. His multifaceted role will be crucial for overseeing the national delegation's operations, inspiration, and logistical coordination. Sangwan's extensive para-sports experience underscores his suitability for this critical position, marking a significant step in promoting and advancing India's representation in the Paralympics.

Lewis Hamilton, the 39-year-old Mercedes Formula One driver, discussed his retirement plans, indicating no immediate intentions to retire despite being the second-oldest on the grid. Hamilton's resurgent 2023 performance, marked by his win at the Italian Grand Prix and his return to the front of the standings, underscores his continued relevance in the sport. While acknowledging advice from peers to prolong his tenure in F1, Hamilton emphasized his commitment to enjoying the sport fully and maximizing his career.

Hideki Matsuyama's victory at the St. Jude Championship marked a historic achievement as he became the first Asian golfer to win a FedExCup playoff event. His 67 in the final round clinched his second title of the season and 10th in his PGA Tour career. Overcoming a late charge from Scottie Scheffler and Viktor Hovland, Matsuyama's win is especially notable as it places him in contention for the season's coveted FedExCup title, adding to his Olympic bronze medal in Paris. Matsuyama's triumph, with his new putter and stand-in caddy Taiga Tabuchi, solidifies his position as Asia's most successful golfer on the PGA Tour, highlighting his exceptional skill and determination in the face of tough competition.