As the year draws to a close, here’s a recap of some of the global sporting events that took place in 2024:

AFC Asian Cup 

The AFC Asian Cup, which kicked off at the beginning of the year in Qatar from 12 January to 10 February, saw the 2022 World Cup host defend their title on home soil. Qatar defeated Jordan 3-1 in the final to clinch their second trophy.

Africa Cup of Nations

The AFCON, which also happened at the start of the year from 13 January to 11 February, witnessed the host nation, Ivory Coast, fight against all odds in a tournament comeback after they almost exited in the group stages. The Ivorians defeated Nigeria in the final—coming back from behind to hand the Super Eagles their first defeat of the tournament in a 2-1 victory to secure their third title.

Paris 2024 Olympics 

The Paris 2024 Olympics—which opened on July 26 and ended on August 11—saw thousands of athletes from various countries feature. Seasoned athletes like Simone Biles showcased why they were the best at what they do, whilst newcomers like Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo announced themselves on the Olympic stage with a historic debut. New records were set, and historic milestones were reached as Paris passed the Olympic torch to Los Angeles for the 2028 Summer Games.

Paris 2024 Paralympics 

Shortly after the end of Paris 2024, the Paralympics followed from August 28 to September 8, with thousands of para-athletes competing in various events. The Paralympics was hailed as hugely successful, with millions in ticket sales. Like the Olympics, the Paralympic Games also witnessed athletes break milestones—Nigerian athlete Mariam Eniola Bolaji, an 18-year-old, became the first African to win a badminton medal at either the Paralympic or Olympic Games.

Copa America

Lionel Messi and his boys secured a record-breaking 16th Copa America title for Argentina after defeating Colombia at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium. The Copa America—the oldest continental football tournament in the world—took place from June 20 to July 14 in the United States. The Albicelestes defended their title against 15 other teams from the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of North, Central America, and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF).

Formula One World Championship

Yet another thrilling season of the Formula One World Championship, as racers began their season on March 2 in Bahrain and ended on December 8 in Abu Dhabi. The championship featured a record total of twenty-four Grands Prix held across the globe. Dutch driver Max Verstappen, representing Red Bull Racing-Honda RBPT, claimed his fourth World Drivers' Championship title. Meanwhile, McLaren-Mercedes secured their ninth World Constructors' Championship, marking their first victory in this category since 1998.

World Chess Championships

The World Chess Championship 2024 pitted defending champion Ding Liren of China against Indian challenger Gukesh Dommaraju between 25 November and 12 December 2024 in Singapore. Ultimately, the 18-year-old Gukesh defeated the world champion to become the youngest undisputed world champion.

UEFA European Football Championship

Football did not come home as many English fans were once again made to wait for that first Euro title. Like that night in Wembley, the ‘Italian Job’ in the Euro 2020 final, the Three Lions suffered defeat—this time against a revamped Spaniard side that eliminated host Germany and heavyweight France. Many would argue that the tournament, which took place from June 14 to July 14, not only secured Spain its fourth title but also became the main catalyst in Rodri overtaking Brazil and Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. to win the Ballon d’Or. 

According to a report published by Reduxx, medical records accessed by French journalist Djaffar Ait Aoudia indicate that Khelif has "testicles" and an XY chromosome pattern, suggesting a condition related to sexual development.

The report was allegedly compiled in June 2023 through a collaboration between Kremlin-Bicêtre Hospital in Paris and Mohamed Lamine Debaghine Hospital in Algiers.

IOC who labelled the report as "unverified documents whose origin cannot be confirmed" says that Khelif's legal proceedings will be against those responsible for the leaked report and the subsequent media coverage.

Although she was born female and does not identify as transgender or intersex, her participation in the Olympics sparked widespread controversy. This was especially evident on social media after Italian boxer Angela Carini forfeited their Olympic bout just 46 seconds into the match.

This is not the first legal journey the celebrated boxer is embarking on. Imane Khelif, 25, who received a hero's welcome upon her return to Algeria after her Olympic triumph, has already filed a complaint in France for online harassment.

The lawsuit, filed with French authorities, alleges British author J.K. Rowling, known for the Harry Potter book franchise and SpaceX founder Elon Musk contributed to the cyberbullying she endured during and after the 2024 Olympics through their public comments and social media posts.

The IOC has expressed its support for Khelif, condemning the abuse she has faced and emphasising that all athletes at the Paris 2024 Games complied with the competition's eligibility and medical regulations.

"The IOC is saddened by the abuse that Imane Khelif is currently receiving," a spokesperson said.

According to the report published by Reduxx, medical records obtained by Aoudia suggest that Khelif has “testicles” and an XY chromosome pattern, indicative of a condition related to sexual development. The report was allegedly compiled through a collaboration between Kremlin-Bicêtre Hospital in Paris and Mohamed Lamine Debaghine Hospital in Algiers in June 2023.

Khelif’s gold medal win was marred by controversy in the ring - Italian boxer Angela Carini abandoned her opening bout against Khelif after just 46 seconds, launching a barrage of media scrutiny towards the Algerian boxer. 

This is not the first time Khelif’s participation has drawn scrutiny; last year, she was disqualified from the World Championships in New Delhi after failing a gender eligibility test issued by the International Boxing Association (IBA).

The medical report, which includes MRI scans and hormone analyses, outlines characteristics associated with a disorder of sexual development. Khelif reportedly lacks a uterus, possesses internal testes, and shows traits of a "micropenis" or enlarged clitoris, according to the report’s findings. Chromosome tests purportedly indicate an XY karyotype and hormone levels reportedly align with typical male ranges.

Additionally, the report suggests that Khelif may have 5-alpha reductase deficiency, a condition that impacts sexual development in genetic males and often leads to delayed masculinisation until adolescence. Individuals with this condition may experience body hair growth, increased muscle mass, and absence of menstruation, yet are often raised as females if the disorder is undetected early.

Khelif’s family maintains her female identity. “My child is a girl. She was raised as a girl. She's a strong girl,” her father, Omar Khelif, stated amidst the controversy. 

The report further advises Khelif to undergo a "sexual transition," recommending "surgical correction" to remove her gonads and monthly hormone therapy, specifically Decapeptyl injections, to reduce testosterone levels.

" People now refer to me as 'Shooter Kim Ye-ji,' rather than just 'Kim Ye-ji'," she told the AFP adding, "I want to continue working so that the word 'shooter' will always be associated with me."

Since her Olympic success, Kim, 32, has been overwhelmed with interview requests, modelling offers from luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, and even an invitation to appear in a short film as an assassin alongside Indian actress Anushka Sen. Despite the whirlwind of attention, Kim remains humble, expressing that she plans to continue working hard to maintain or improve her performance. "I don’t think my level will drop," she said confidently.

Kim’s journey into shooting started unexpectedly. At the age of 12, while attending a gym class, her PE teacher, who was also a shooting director, asked students to raise their hands if they wanted to try shooting. When no one volunteered, the director randomly selected names, and Kim was one of them. At that time, she could barely lift the gun, weighing less than 30 kilograms in her first year of middle school. “I didn’t have the strength to hold the gun with one hand,” she recalled.

Though shooting wasn’t her initial goal, watching older students at the range working hard to win first place inspired her. She, too, wanted to stand at the top. Her hard work paid off, and now, she’s not only a national champion but an international sensation.

While she embraces her newfound fame, Kim remains focused on her sport . "I think I could keep shooting until I’m 50," she mused. She also hopes that even when she engages in activities outside of shooting, people will still remember her for her skills on the range.

The brutal attack shocked the East African region and sparked widespread tributes, drawing attention to gender-based violence.

The service began at the local council office around 10:00 am (0700 GMT), where Cheptegei’s coffin, draped in the Ugandan flag, was saluted by UPDF officers. The ceremony then moved to a nearby sports stadium for public tributes before Cheptegei was buried among the trees in the mountains, honoured with a gun salute and prayers.

Cheptegei, a sergeant in the UPDF, was remembered as a "heroine" by local presidential representative Bessie Modest Ajilong. Uganda’s Sports Minister Peter Ogwang condemned the attack and announced that the government would provide about $13,000 to each of Cheptegei’s children.

Marangach, who had entered Cheptegei’s home while she was at church, later died from injuries sustained during the assault. The couple’s relationship had reportedly deteriorated over property disputes.

"On principle, China has always strictly abided by international doping regulations and has a zero-tolerance attitude toward doping. I also want to emphasise that sports issues should not be politicised. All athletes from all countries should be treated equally, and there should be practical safeguards for a fair competition environment," said Ning.

The WADA report, authored by Swiss prosecutor Eric Cottier, found no evidence of favouritism towards China. However, it highlighted areas where WADA’s anti-doping rules and administrative processes could be improved. 

The investigation followed concerns over the participation of 11 Chinese swimmers who tested positive for a banned heart medication ahead of the Paris Olympics. WADA acknowledged the findings and said it would work on strengthening its procedures, the AFP reports.

In the Financial Year 2023-24, Uganda lost at least Shs30 billion to corruption, with the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) receiving approximately 2,377 related complaints. Of these, 91.8% were sanctioned for investigation, while 2.7% were referred to authorities. The IGG reported 852 investigated cases, including 18 high-profile individuals, with 55 cases concluded in court yielding a 47.3% conviction rate. According to Ugandan media Monitor , the Inspectorate recommended recovery of Shs17 billion from identified offenders. Additionally, investigations into compliance with the Leadership Code found 213 breaches, resulting in 61 officials recommended for prosecution.

Rebecca Cheptegei honoured in Paris

Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei was honoured posthumously at the 2024 Paris Paralympics on September 8, following her tragic death on September 5 in Eldoret, Kenya, where she was set on fire by her ex-boyfriend. A tribute was broadcasted with her photo displayed near the finish line after the T54 and T12 marathons, acknowledging her as a "victim of femicide," News Central reported. The tribute was organized by Paris 2024 in collaboration with various international sports bodies.

Funeral of Rebecca Cheptegei

The funeral for Ugandan Olympic runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who died after being set on fire by her boyfriend in Kenya, will be held on September 14 in Bukwo, Uganda. The 33-year-old marathon competitor succumbed to severe burns four days after the attack. Her death has sparked outrage over gender-based violence in Kenya, which has seen other athletes face similar tragic fates. The perpetrator, Dickson Ndiema Marangach, is currently hospitalised with burns, Media agency The Sun reported.

Oil reserves

In a recent interview with VOA , Uganda's Minister of Energy and Mineral Development discussed the country's oil reserves and the logistics involved in reaching global markets. Additionally, analysts provided insights on how U.S. presidential debates may influence the upcoming elections.

Death of State Minister for Defense

Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye has expressed condolences to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and the people of Uganda following the sudden death of State Minister for Defense, Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi. She passed away from a heart attack while being taken to Mulago hospital. Mateke, who had been in office the day before and was scheduled to travel to South Korea, is remembered as a dedicated public servant. Born on July 15, 1974, she previously served as youth state minister. According to Chim reports , her funeral will be held in Kisoro district on Thursday.

Tony Estanguet, the chief organiser for Paris 2024, hailed the past six weeks as a "historic summer" for France, noting how the Games helped heal recent political divisions. "This summer will remain etched in people's memories," Estanguet was quoted by AFP.

The ceremony included the extinguishing of the Paralympic flame and a high-energy concert with performances by French electronic music legends Jean-Michel Jarre, Cassius, Busy P, and Kungs. DJ Martin Solveig wrapped up the night with hits like "Hello" and Daft Punk’s "One More Time."

China led the medal standings with 94 gold medals. Great Britain finished second with 49 golds, while the USA secured third place with 36. Ukraine placed seventh with 22 golds, and France ended eighth with 19 golds.

On the final day, Switzerland won both wheelchair marathons, with Catherine Debrunner triumphing in the women’s race and Marcel Hug in the men’s. The Netherlands retained their women’s wheelchair basketball title with a 63-49 win over the USA. The American women, last champions in Rio 2016, will have to wait until Los Angeles 2028 for their next chance.

"Hi, I’m Angel, the owner of Isshiki Matcha. We’ve imported a thousand Olympic muffins for everyone to try," Zheng is quoted by the AFP. "It’s not about the recipe; it’s about being part of Olympic history. You might not be an Olympic athlete, and you can’t go to the Olympic Village, but you can have a piece of the Olympics here in New York City," she added.

Zheng detailed the effort behind bringing the muffins stateside, noting the logistical challenges. "As soon as the French cargo was on the plane, it was all up to us. We had to clear customs, go through FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) approval ourselves, and handle all the ground transportation in New York," she explained. These extra steps contributed to the muffins' price of $10 each.

Despite the cost, the demand for the Olympic muffins has been strong, with many eager to experience a slice of the viral sensation.

Goverdhan, draped in the national flag, marigold garlands, and traditional Buddhist scarves, was overwhelmed by the reception. "I kept my promise, I brought a medal back home. This achievement is not just for me, but for everyone," Goverdhan said in her speech, which was quoted by AFP.

Her return was marked by traditional music and an army band, with many young taekwondo enthusiasts among the hundreds who gathered to welcome her.

Goverdhan also secured a bronze at the 2018 Asian Para Taekwondo Championship and finished fifth at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.

In 2024, the world has witnessed remarkable displays of national pride, with countries rallying their citizens around shared values, cultural heritage, and collective achievements.

This was showcased at the recent Paris Olympics where the world trooped to support and celebrate their delegates.

According to the World Population Review, these are the world's most patriotic countries:

USA - 41%

India - 36%

Australia - 34%

Thailand - 25%

Saudi Arabia - 25%

Philippines - 15%

Indonesia - 14%

United Kingdom - 13%

Denmark - 13%

Malaysia - 11%

"I'd really love us to have a place where the Agitos can remain here in the city, celebrating what I think, by some margin right now, is the most spectacular Paralympic Games in our history," Spence stated.

The IPC official highlighted the impact of previous occasions like the Tokyo Games disclosing that there remain “many Agitos in the Japanese capital”, commemorating the great Games that took place there.

“We shouldn't forget about the Agitos. We shouldn't forget that the Paralympics have also been here (Paris), and are here," he added.

Supporting the success of the ongoing Paralympic Games , Paris 2024 spokesperson Anne Descamps shared, "The great news is that the ticket sales are continuing to fly. I can tell you that we have now reached the milestone of 2.3 million tickets sold for the Paralympic Games, so it's a clear success for all of us. The French public is falling in love with these Paralympic Games. We're so happy with this success and more to come."

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, which commenced on August 28, will continue until September 8.

Brazil won 20 medals at the Games, including three gold, seven silver, and ten bronze, ranking 20th overall. The delegation of 276 athletes included many who benefit from the federal Athlete Grant welfare programme.

Lula used the occasion to emphasise the significance of investing in sports, especially for underprivileged youth. “Let's mark today as a new era for sport in this country,” he said. “I want to help this country be a country that bets big on kids who dedicate themselves to practising sport.”

He praised the athletes as inspirations for young Brazilians and, in a fun moment, invited two skateboarders to perform kickflips on the marble floor of the presidential palace.

Now, it is preparing to accommodate approximately 180 Paralympic delegations, starting with the arrival of the chefs de mission early on the morning of Sunday, August 18. 

The Village, originally designed with accessibility, required only minimal adjustments to meet the specific needs of Paralympic athletes. Laurent Michaud, the Village director, highlighted that “public spaces, roads, sidewalks, and crosswalks were all created to be navigable by wheelchair users, adhering to universal accessibility standards for new urban developments.” 

Michaud added, “We’re adding temporary grab bars in the bathrooms and wheelchairs in the showers to facilitate transfers,” ensuring that all athletes can comfortably and safely navigate their living spaces during the Games.

In the Village apartments, only units with at least one bathroom adapted for people with reduced mobility (PRM) will be used. This adaptation reduces the number of required beds from 14,000 during the Olympics to 9,000 for the Paralympics, allowing for a more efficient use of space. 

"So, the peak will be 25,000 police officers, in Île-de-France and in Châteauroux, where the shooting events will take place, as you know. We will have the support of three intervention forces: the GIGN, the RAID and the BRI, who will work together, as they did during the Olympic Games," Darmanin stated. He added that the deployment will be supported by three elite intervention forces - GIGN, RAID, and BRI - who successfully collaborated during the Olympic Games.

In addition to the police presence, 600 specialised forces will be mobilised throughout the Games, particularly during the opening ceremony in central Paris. Over 10,000 private security guards will also be involved in the overall security efforts.

The 25-year-old athlete was greeted by cheering crowds and chants of "Tahia Imane" (Long live Imane) at the airport.

Khelif has been the centre of a gender identity controversy. Her win over China’s Yang Liu led to intense debate and criticism, including comments from former US President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk. Trump said he would "keep men out of women's sports", while Musk and others joined the debate.

Khelif, along with Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting, was previously disqualified from last year’s world championships due to gender eligibility issues. Despite this, both were allowed to compete in Paris. The International Boxing Association (IBA) claimed that Khelif and Lin had failed gender eligibility testing, but the International Olympic Committee (IOC) cleared them to participate.

In response to the online abuse she faced, Khelif has filed a complaint for cyberbullying, with her lawyer describing it as a "fight for justice".

Background

Botswana recently celebrated a historic achievement when Letsile Tebogo won the country's first-ever Olympic gold medal in the men's 200m event at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This victory brought immense pride to the nation and was a significant milestone in Botswana's sporting history. However, the celebrations were soon overshadowed by the government's appeal for public donations to reward the athletes.

Government's request

On August 14, the Botswana government announced a fund to honour the Olympic champions, asking citizens to contribute financially. The government stated that this initiative was a way for the public to show their appreciation and support for the athletes who brought glory to the nation.

The request, unfortunately, was met with widespread criticism and anger. Many questioned why their taxes were not being used to reward the Olympians.

Social media platforms have been flooded with comments from citizens expressing their frustration. "We are already paying tax, give our champions money from the government purse," one user on Facebook remarked.

Another user on the same platform also shared "I would love to donate in support of the boy’s historic achievement, but unfortunately, I’m currently an unemployed electrical engineering graduate with a bachelor’s degree."

Economic situation

Botswana's GDP growth slowed to 2.7% in 2023, down from 5.8% in 2022. According to the World Bank , this decline is attributed to reduced diamond production and weaker global demand.

However, inflation has decreased to 5.3% in 2023, within the Bank of Botswana's acceptable range of 3%–6%. This reduction is due to lower domestic fuel prices and reduced imported inflation.

The country also faces high unemployment rates, with overall unemployment at 25.9% and youth unemployment at 34.4% as of the third quarter of 2023.

Despite a relatively high income level, Botswana has significant poverty and inequality issues. The poverty headcount ratio decreased from 17.0% in 2019 to 14.5% in 2022, but inequality remains high with a Gini index of 53.3.

Other countries' rewards to medallists

Before the Paris Olympics, Hong Kong announced that any gold medalists from the city would receive one of the largest cash rewards available: HK$6 million (over $750,000). This is part of the Athlete Incentive Awards Scheme, sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, the city's official betting organiser.

Several other governments also promised six-figure cash rewards to their Olympic champions, including those of Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Morocco, Italy, the Philippines, Hungary, Kosovo, Estonia, and Egypt.

The approved sports are baseball-softball, cricket, flag football, lacrosse, and squash, adding a fresh and diverse lineup to the Olympic program.

“LA28’s proposed sports ignite the imagination on the field of play and drive culture off it. They’re relevant, innovative and community-based, played in backyards, schoolyards, community centres, stadiums and parks across the U.S. and the globe,” said LA28 Chairperson Casey Wasserman.  Adding that, “they will bring new athletes to the Games, engage diverse fanbases and expand the Games’ presence in digital spaces, further amplifying LA28’s mission to deliver an unparalleled experience.”

“The choice of these five new sports is in line with the American sports culture and will showcase iconic American sports to the world while bringing international sports to the United States. These sports will make the Olympic Games LA28 unique. Their inclusion will allow the Olympic Movement to engage with new athlete and fan communities in the US and globally” said IOC President Thomas Bach. 

Baseball and softball, which have been traditionally gender-specific in the Olympics, will return to the Games, with baseball for men and softball for women. These sports have a strong following, particularly in the Americas and East Asia, and their return is expected to resonate with fans globally.

Cricket, one of the world's most popular sports, particularly in countries like India, Australia, and the United Kingdom, has also been approved. Its inclusion is expected to draw a vast international audience, and further expand the global reach of the Olympics.

Flag football, a limited-contact version of American football, has also been added.

Lacrosse, known for its fast pace and physicality, also received approval, adding a historic and dynamic team sport to the mix.

Finally, there is squash, a high-speed racket sport played on a four-walled court. 

Khelif, who won gold in the women's 66-kilogramme boxing competition, faced a barrage of online abuse and accusations regarding her gender eligibility.

Despite being born female and not identifying as transgender or intersex, Khelif's participation in the Olympics was met with widespread controversy, particularly on social media platforms after Italian boxer Angela Carini abandoned her Olympic bout against her after 46 seconds.

The lawsuit, filed with French authorities, accuses Rowling and Musk of contributing to the cyberbullying through their public comments and social media posts.

Rowling allegedly posted a picture from Khelif's fight, accusing her of being a man and "enjoying the distress of a woman he's just punched in the head." Musk, on the other hand, shared a post from swimmer Riley Gaines, asserting that "men don't belong in women's sports," which he endorsed with his comment.

Khelif's lawyer, Nabil Boudi, confirmed that the lawsuit names both Rowling and Musk, along with other high-profile figures, including former U.S. President Donald Trump. The Paris Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into the allegations, focusing on cyber harassment, public insult, and incitement to discrimination.

The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by athletes, particularly women, in the digital age. Khelif's victory, which should have been a moment of triumph, has instead been overshadowed by a contentious debate over gender and sports.

The outcome of this lawsuit could set a significant precedent for how online harassment is addressed in the future.

Botswana welcomed home first-ever Olympic gold medallist Letsile Tebogo with thousands of ecstatic fans. Tebogo set an African record time of 19.46 seconds in the men’s 200m event in Paris. The nationwide celebration also includes a silver medal in the men’s 4x400m relay, bringing the country’s total Olympic medal tally to four. President Mokgweetsi Masisi joined in the celebration, granting a half-day holiday for the historic occasion, APA News reports.

Stake in HB Antwerp

Botswana is seeking to acquire a larger stake in HB Antwerp, a diamond manufacturer, at no extra cost. The government initially planned to buy 24% of HB, but now wants a 49.9% stake. Rapaport reports that the acquisition aims to enable independent price discovery for Botswana’s Okavango Diamond Company, create jobs, and give the country ownership of diamond-cutting technology. HB Antwerp was founded in 2021 by individuals with 105 years of industry experience. The company has not commented on the negotiations.

First 100 MW solar photovoltaic power station project

Botswana signed a power purchase agreement with Sinotswana Green Energy to launch its first 100 MW solar photovoltaic power station project. The project is part of Botswana's plan to increase its renewable energy use to 50 percent by 2036 and is expected to start power generation by the end of 2025. According to Xinhua , the consortium behind the project includes Chinese and Botswana companies, with China Habor Engineering Company controlling the stake. The initiative is in line with Botswana's energy policy goal to provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy.

Airlink apologises for premature flight sales

Airlink has apologised to Botswana's Civil Aviation Authority for prematurely advertising flights between Cape Town and Gaborone. The airline was fined for advertising flights before they were authorised and has since withdrawn the flights from its reservation system. The CEO of Airlink acknowledged the oversight and stated that the process of including the route on their permit is still being finalized. According to CH-Aviation , the CAAB has instructed Airlink to cease ticket sales and advertising for the route.

Botswana as an athletic powerhouse

Botswana's emergence as an athletics powerhouse was highlighted at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where sprinter Letsile Tebogo won gold in the men's 200m. This success was the result of a strategic plan for athletics development, including talent identification, high-performance training, national support programmes, and investment in sports science and technology. Graphic Business reports that Tebogo's rise has inspired a new generation of athletes and reignited a passion for athletics in Botswana. The country is committed to hosting international sports events to continue its growth as an emerging power in athletics.

The Philippines government has fast-tracked the development of the "world's largest" solar and storage project, with a capacity of 3,500MW of solar PV and a 4,500MWh battery energy storage system. The project, being developed by Terra Solar Philippines, Inc., has received a green lane certificate from the Board of Investments, allowing it to proceed at a quicker pace. According to Energy Project News , the project is expected to cost PHP185 billion (US$3.2 billion) and span 3,500 hectares of land in Bulacan and Nueva Ecija provinces. The certificate is hoped to help the project reach commercial operations by 2026 and 2027.

Paris Olympics

Philippines celebrates Olympic gymnast Carlos Yulo's victory with a parade in Manila. Yulo won two gold medals, bringing the country's total Olympic gold medal haul to three. His success has inspired hope for many Filipinos. Yulo overcame obstacles and trained in Japan to pursue his gymnastics dream. President Marcos met the athletes and awarded Yulo with a presidential citation and a significant cash reward, along with other gifts and offers of support, Gulf News reported.

Foreign Direct Investment

FDIs in the Philippines fell to a 16-month low in May 2024, due to high inflation and geopolitical tensions. Despite the decline, the five-month FDI net inflows grew by 15.8 per cent year-on-year. Factors such as global economic uncertainties and regional competition may have contributed to the potential slowdown. Realizing the projected $9.5-billion FDI net inflow for 2024 will require sustained investor confidence and a favourable economic climate. The report also indicated a decline in equity capital placements, but a bright spot in intercompany borrowings between multinational firms and their Philippine units, Asia News reported.

Oil spillage

The Philippines has started transferring 1.4 million litres of industrial fuel oil from a sunken tanker off Manila Bay to prevent an environmental disaster. The tanker sank on July 25 and it took three weeks to control the spillage. The release of the cargo was warned to cause an environmental catastrophe and fishing zones have been affected, media agency Hindustan Times reported. The country has experienced a devastating oil spill in the past, causing contamination of waters and beaches.

Consumer Electronics

VS Industry's subsidiary in the Philippines has secured RM1.5bil in new orders to manufacture consumer electronics products for a key customer. The expected revenue contribution for FY25 and FY26 is RM0.3bil and RM1.2bil respectively. This development is expected to strengthen the company's earnings and geographical exposure, according to reports by media agency The Star .

The sprinter was greeted by excited crowds at the airport in Gaborone, where families, elderly people, and young supporters waved the national flag.

Hundreds of people gathered at the small airport to celebrate Tebogo, who won the men’s 200m in Paris on August 8 with an African record time of 19.46 seconds, defeating American sprinters Kenny Bednarek and Noah Lyles.

Tebogo, 21, became the first African to win the men's 200m. He also won a silver medal in the men’s 4x400m relay, bringing Botswana’s total Olympic medals to four.

Traditional dancers in animal skins and beads performed outside the airport, with celebrations continuing at the national stadium. The holiday declared by Botswana's President in honour of Tebogo's win on August 9 allowed the nation of 2.3 million to join in the festivities.

Tebogo’s gold is only the second Olympic medal in the men’s 200m for an African athlete, following Namibian Frankie Fredericks’ silver in 1996.

The games saw countries like China dominating with an impressive 40 gold medals. Meanwhile, nations like Kenya continued their tradition of excellence, particularly in long-distance running.

Others like Ireland also made a mark with some standout wins. What was truly inspiring, though, was seeing smaller islands like Saint Lucia shine, proving that even the smallest nations can achieve greatness on the global stage.

In all the ultimate goal was the ‘gold’, the prize that made people world champions and within the global south, there were a remarkably large number of nations that proved they’ve got their game on.

Here is a list of countries within the global south that won gold medals.

People’s Republic of China – 40

Spain – 5

Kenya – 4

Ireland – 4

Brazil – 3

Islamic Republic of Iran – 3

Cuba – 2

Bahrain – 2

Chinese Taipei – 2

Hong Kong, China – 2

Philippines – 2

Algeria – 2

Ecuador – 1

Jamaica – 1

Indonesia – 2

South Africa – 1

Thailand – 1

Ethiopia – 1

Argentina – 1

Egypt – 1

Tunisia – 1

Botswana – 1

Chile – 1

Saint Lucia – 1

Uganda – 1

Dominican Republic – 1

Guatemala – 1

Morocco – 1

Dominica – 1

Pakistan – 1

Imane's journey to Olympic gold has not been without its challenges. She faced intense scrutiny and gender questions from opponents, yet she remained steadfast.

On Friday, August 9, Khelif won the Olympics women's 66kg final against China's Yang Liu in a unanimous points decision, having been the focus of intense scrutiny in the French capital in the past fortnight.

"The answer [to critics] came through the result In every match, I wanted to show the strength and performance of women and Algerian women in particular. As for the fierce campaign I had to face, and you all know what it was like, praise be to God the Algerian people supported me. Praise be to God, we have restored Algeria's reputation and raised the Algerian flag in Paris, which is the most important thing. We brought joy to the Algerian people and restored Algerian women's reputation," Khelif said.

Khelif has also filed a legal complaint in France for online harassment, her lawyer announced on Saturday, August 10.

"The boxer Imane Khelif has decided to begin a new fight, a fight for justice, dignity and honour," Nabil Boudi said in a statement, saying Khelif had filed the complaint for "aggravated online harassment... to Paris prosecutors". He added: "The investigation will determine who was behind this misogynist, racist and sexist campaign, but will also have to concern itself with those who fed the online lynching."

Alongside Taiwan's Lin Yu-ting, who won the 57kg women's final on Saturday, Khelif was disqualified from last year's world championships due to failing gender eligibility tests. However, both were cleared to compete in Paris.

The illegal movement of immigrants between Zimbabwe and Zambia has increased due to receding water levels on the Zambezi River. Border authorities are concerned about the ease with which people can now cross the river, leading to a spike in illegal crossings. Measures are being proposed to improve border surveillance and streamline customs clearance processes. According to New Zimbabwe , the Chirundu border post is set to undergo a major facelift through a public-private partnership.

Schoolchildren face threats from animals

On the outskirts of a wildlife conservancy in southeastern Zimbabwe, 14-year-old Esther Bote starts her day at dawn with a routine: cleaning, cooking, bathing, and dressing in her school uniform. The most dangerous part is the 5-kilometre walk to school through bush paths where dangerous animals may lurk. As reported by the Independent , despite facing these threats daily, it never gets easier. Even children as young as five, guided by older peers or siblings, navigate the dense forests to reach school and return home.

Improving the telecom sector

Clear Mobitel, a UK-based technology company, plans to invest US$200 million in Zimbabwe's telecommunications sector. This aligns with the country's efforts to attract foreign investment and boost economic growth. The company specialises in advanced technologies such as cloud computing, 5G, and IoT. Vanilla Plus reports that the company has also partnered with NEC Corporation to enhance its offerings in Zimbabwe. The investment will focus on infrastructure, technology, and services to impact Zimbabwe's economic growth.

Rutendo explains why she withdrew from Olympic marathon

Zimbabwean long-distance runner Rutendo Nyahora faced criticism after withdrawing from the Paris Olympic marathon mid-race. The 35-year-old dropped out on Sunday after completing 22 kilometres of the 42-kilometre event. Speaking to a ZBC journalist, Rutendo explained that she withdrew because it simply wasn't her day, emphasising that there was no specific reason for her decision, iHarare reports. “I couldn’t finish the race, but if I say anything happened, l will be lying. Nothing happened; it’s just that it was not my day today.”

Opposition starved in drought-prone Zimbabwe

The ruling party in Zimbabwe is accused of tying food aid to political affiliations, denying opposition activists access to food aid during the El Nino-induced drought. Human rights groups have documented instances where victims were denied food aid for being suspected or known members of opposition parties. The government is under pressure to fix economic woes and ensure fair distribution of food aid. This politicisation of food aid has been a long-standing issue in Zimbabwe, reports CAJ News Africa .

As expected, the battle for the top of the medal table was fiercely contested between the United States and China. Both nations secured 40 gold medals, but it was the United States that clinched the number one spot, thanks to their superior haul of 44 silver and 42 bronze medals compared to China's 27 silver and 25 bronze.

Notable achievements by American athletes played a significant role in their success. Noah Lyles ended the 20-year drought in the Men’s 100-meter race by winning gold, a victory that broke the dominance of the Usain Bolt era. Gymnastics star Simone Biles added to the gold count, while basketball legends LeBron James, Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, and the men's basketball team secured victory over the host nation, France, contributing to a 40 gold medal tally.

China also celebrated significant victories, with Huang Yuting and Sheng Lihao winning the first gold medal of the 2024 Olympic Games in the 10m air rifle team event. Swimmer Zhang Yufei, although not winning a gold, became the most-awarded athlete at this year’s Olympics, earning one silver and five bronze medals, adding to China’s impressive total of 91 medals.

Japan finished in the same position as when they hosted the games in 2021 in Tokyo with 20 gold medals. Australia finished fourth, enjoying their best-ever medal haul of 53 with 18 of them being gold medals. Host France was fifth with 16 out of their total 64 medals being gold, their best medal haul since they hosted the event in 1900 where they ended at the top.

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach praised the Games as “sport at its best” and playfully dubbed them “Seine-sational,” referencing the river featured in the opening ceremony.

The closing ceremony saw around 9,000 athletes celebrated by 270 performers in a tribute to the spirit of sport.

Léon Marchand, the French swimmer who won four gold medals, started the ceremony by collecting the Olympic flame from the Tuileries Gardens and bringing it to the Stade de France. French rugby star Antoine Dupont, who led France to a rugby sevens gold, carried the national flag into the stadium as athletes filled the field.

The ceremony also marked the start of the countdown to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Simone Biles and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass received the Olympic flag, while Tom Cruise made a dramatic entrance by abseiling into the stadium and then riding off on a motorbike.

A pre-filmed segment showed Cruise travelling from Paris to Los Angeles, skydiving into the city, and decorating the Hollywood sign with Olympic rings. The event concluded with performances by the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Billie Eilish.

The Games, held over 17 days against Paris’s iconic landmarks, ended with the United States finishing at the top of the medal table, just ahead of China. The US women’s basketball team clinched the final gold medal with a 67-66 win over France, giving the USA a total of 126 medals compared to China’s 91.

Over 9,000 athletes from 206 delegations paraded into the Stade de France, creating a colourful and joyous atmosphere.

The ceremony included breathtaking fireworks, a parade of flagbearers, and memorable moments such as French swimmer Léon Marchand carrying the Olympic flame and Hollywood actor abseiling before over 71,500 spectators.

The night was a fitting end to a Summer Games that brought excitement and unity to the world. Enjoy these captivating images that capture the essence of the Paris 2024 Olympics closing ceremony.

For Saint Lucia, Julien Alfred won the country's first-ever medal by coming first in the women's 100m race and second in the women's 200m race.

Dominica did not miss out on this chance as Thea Lafond grabbed gold in the women's triple jump. The country's first-ever Olympic medal.

Despite his excellent record of 6.24m, Swedish vaulter, Armand Duplantis set a new record of 6.25m in the men's vault pole.

Arshad Nadeem, a Pakistani javelin thrower also made history by winning the gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics. He set an Olympic record with a throw of 92.97m. This achievement marks him as the first individual Olympic champion from Pakistan.

Aleksandra Miroslaw, on the other hand, broke two records on the same day and won the first women's speed climbing competition at the Olympics for Poland.

The 34th Summer Olympics began on July 24, with the opening ceremony held on the River Seine on July 26.

The closing ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics will be held at Stade de France on August 11, 2024. Titled 'Records,' it will feature over a hundred performers, including acrobats, dancers, and circus artists.

In the City of Love, seven athletes took the opportunity to propose to their partners, creating unforgettable moments that added a romantic flair to the global event.

Argentine handball player Pablo Simonet proposed to his long-time girlfriend, Maria Campoy on the hockey team, after a thrilling match. The emotional proposal was met with cheers from teammates and fans alike.

French steeplechase athlete Alice Finot proposed to her boyfriend, Spanish triathlete Bruno Martinez Bargiela, after breaking a European record. Her spontaneous gesture was celebrated by the crowd.

French skiff sailors Sarah Steyaert and Charline Picon experienced double joy when they were both proposed to after winning bronze medals. Steyaert, who had joked about engagement only for gold or silver, was completely surprised.

American rower Justin Best proposed to his girlfriend, Lainey Duncan, live on television with the Eiffel Tower as their backdrop. The romantic moment was a highlight of the games.

Chinese badminton star Huang Yaqiong was surprised by her teammate and partner, Liu Yuchen, with a proposal right after winning a gold medal. The emotional moment was captured on camera, leaving spectators in awe.

Two-time Olympian Payton Otterdahl proposed to his girlfriend, Maddy Nilles, against the iconic backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. Their engagement added a touch of romance to the games.

Italian rhythmic gymnast Alessia Maurelli was surprised by her partner, Massimo Bertelloni, with a heartfelt proposal after securing a medal. The moment was both emotional and joyous.

These proposals have added a unique charm to the 2024 Paris Olympics. The City of Love has truly lived up to its name, providing the perfect backdrop for these unforgettable moments.

"It's going to be very special. What I can tell you is that 1,000 more athletes than expected will be there. We've had a lot of discussions with all the delegations over the last few weeks and, in the end, the athletes wanted to stay a little longer and take part in the closing ceremony, which shows that they've really enjoyed these Olympics. We're delighted to be able to welcome them tomorrow evening and thank them because, frankly, they've made these Games great for us," Tony when asked by AFP about what to expect for the closing ceremony.

The closing ceremony to be held at Stade de France is set to celebrate not only the achievements of the athletes but also the rich cultural heritage of Paris.

Spectators can expect a blend of traditional and contemporary performances, showcasing the best of French art, music, and dance. T

Expected to kick off at 9 p.m. CEST, or 3 p.m. ET, on Sunday, Aug. 11, spectators will be thrilled with performances from Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, Red Hot Chili Peppers and H.E.R.

Viewers in the Central Daylight Time zone can watch the closing ceremony at 2 p.m. Those in the Mountain Daylight Time zone can tune in at 1 p.m., and it will start at noon for those in the Pacific Daylight Time zone.

In addition to the artistic performances, the ceremony will feature a parade of athletes, a symbolic handover to the next host city, and a spectacular fireworks display.

The victory adds to an impressive list of achievements that includes two Olympic golds (2016, 2021) and multiple World Championship medals - gold in 2017 and 2022, and silver in 2015 and 2019. 

Kipyegon’s exceptional performance this year also saw her break world records in the 1500m (3:49.11 in Florence), 5000m (14:05.20 in Paris), and the mile (4:07.64 in Monaco).

Jessica Hull of Australia finished in second place, while Great Britain’s Georgia Bell made the podium with a third place finish.

Despite initial criticisms , the opening ceremony became the most-watched TV event in French history, drawing over 24 million viewers. This achievement is complemented by a record 9.4 million ticket sales.

The influx of tourists has also positively impacted the city's economy. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, have experienced a significant boost in revenue.

Many tourists who spoke with AFP shared that France excelled in their preparation for the Olympic Games.

"Honestly, I expected less. It exceeded my expectations," said Massimo Baraldi, an Italian tourist, posing with his wife in front of the Olympic rings at Place de la Bastille.

"We were won over," confirmed a French couple who attended the Games with their children and are now returning to their native Cantal "to find a bit of peace and quiet."

With the closing ceremony slated for Sunday, August 11, The Paris 2024 Olympics have truly left a lasting impression on all who attended, showcasing France's ability to host a world-class event.

Luol Deng, president of the South Sudan Basketball Federation (SSBF), addressed the crowd, calling the team’s Olympic journey a breakthrough moment. "When we first started, nobody thought that South Sudan had a place, not only in Africa but in the world, to compete. Now, people are starting to see our potential, and because of you, we are on our way," Deng said.

"For years and years and years, South Sudan has not had the opportunity and has not had the chance to be able to show the rest of the world our talent, to show the rest of the world our unity, and to show the rest of the world what's really in our heart. And right now, South Sudan is the heart of Africa and we will keep on representing it. What I always tell my players and my message to my players is that what makes us so unique is that we are playing for something different than just basketball," he added.

Despite falling short of a medal after group stage defeats by the United States and Serbia, the performance of the Bright Stars in Paris has brought immense pride to South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, and a neighbour to war-torn Sudan.

Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia celebrated a historic triumph with Julien Alfred's remarkable performance in the women’s 100m race. Alfred secured her second Olympic medal at the Paris 2024 Games by finishing second in the women's 200 meters on August 6. She is now the first athlete from Saint Lucia to win both gold and silver at the Olympics. The country, ranking 34th on the medal table, is the smallest nation to boast the fastest women on Earth. "It feels amazing, to be honest. Just believing in myself and trusting that I could do it is what really mattered to me," Alfred said .

Prime Minister Philip J Pierre celebrated the achievement, calling it a great day for the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States and the Caribbean people . Saint Lucia has a population of about 180,000 and covers 238 square miles. The Island nation burst in loud cheers and chants watching from a giant screen when Alfred crossed the finished line as the fastest women on earth.

Dominica

Thea LaFond made history for Dominica by winning the gold medal in the women's triple jump with a distance of 15.02 meters. This is Dominica's first Olympic medal since it began competing at the Summer Games in 1996. The country now ranks 44th on the medal table. LaFond's victory was a momentous occasion for Dominica, a nation with just over 70,000 people. "This is for you guys," LaFond said , dedicating her win to the people of Dominica and celebrating their achievement on the global stage .

Grenada

Grenada also made its mark with Lindon Victor securing a bronze medal in the decathlon, the country's second-ever Olympic medal. Victor, who placed third in the event with a score of 8,724 points, was only surpassed by Markus Rooth from Norway and Lee Neugebauer from Germany. Grenada is ranked 69th on the medal table.

Now, Echikunwoke has become the first representative of the USA to win a medal in the hammer throw event. 

She secured the silver medal with a throw of 75.48m, just behind Canada's Camryn Rogers, who took gold with a throw of 76.97m.

In 2020, she complained about the AFN’s failure to conduct some tests on athletes leading to their disqualification.

“Because of the negligence of the AFN – not getting people tested knowing they are a category A federation – now people are ineligible to compete. And looking at who is affected, it’s mainly the overseas-based athletes, so all of us based in the USA, whether born in Nigeria or not. Officials have barely said anything, vague in giving any information about how things are being handled,” she said.

“I was told they talked to the AIU and World Athletics, but the case was denied. So, now we athletes who are affected are speaking out about this. That’s an absolute lie. Any time I was asked to disclose my whereabouts information, I gave it as soon as possible. I have the receipts. It’s the federation’s job to then set up testing once I give that information and they never did,” Echikunwoke further lamented.

The 28-year-old was born in America to Nigerian parents, and ahead of the last Olympics in Tokyo, she opted to represent the West African nation. She excelled as a Nigerian hammer thrower, setting both the national and continental records in the sport with her 75.49m throw.

The victory came before a lively crowd at Roland Garros, which chanted her name throughout the bout.

Khelif defeated Thailand's 2023 world silver medallist Janjaem Suwannapheng by unanimous decision in the women’s 66kg category. “I am like all athletes, I am here to achieve my dream,” Khelif told AFP after the fight.

Khelif received a huge ovation as she entered Roland Garros, usually known for tennis, but now hosting Olympic boxing. The Algerian crowd, waving flags and shouting “Imane, Imane,” created an electrifying atmosphere.

During the bout, Khelif, who had a clear height advantage, overwhelmed Suwannapheng, who took a standing count in the third round.

After the fight, Khelif celebrated with a dance in the ring, drawing cheers from the crowd. She will face Yang Liu of China in the final, who won her semi-final against Taiwan's Chen Nien-chin.

"I am focusing on the competition and other things are not important. The important thing is that I am in the final now," Khelif said.

Born in Raleigh, North Carolina, on April 11, 1992, Wakama pursued her education at Western Carolina University, graduating with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation in 2014. She later earned an MBA from Manhattan College in 2019.

Professional Journey

Wakama's professional basketball career began in 2014 as an athlete with FIBA in the United Kingdom. She played four years with the Western Carolina Catamounts before moving to Nigeria, where she played for Nigeria’s First Bank team in the Africa Champions Cup and the Women’s AfroBasket tournament in 2015.

In 2017, Wakama became the director of basketball operations at Manhattan College, overseeing administrative affairs. Over six seasons, she transitioned to the roles of Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator. She also served as an assistant coach for Tulane University's women’s basketball team and spent a year as an Assistant Coach at Stony Brook, beginning in July 2023.

Achievements

Wakama's prominence grew when she led the D’Tigress to their fourth consecutive AfroBasket title in 2023, becoming the first woman to win the tournament. She later guided the team to Olympic qualification and now their historic quarterfinal entry since 2004.

Under her guidance, Manhattan College achieved a 21-11 record in the 2021-22 season, marking the most wins in a single season since 2010-2011 and the team's third straight winning season.

Wakama's leadership and strategic capabilities have not only brought success to Nigeria's women’s basketball team but also inspired many in the sport . Now, Rena is hoping to continue her historic adventures as her team faces the defending champions, the US women's team on August 7, 2024.

However, before the historic American was scintillating the world with her acrobatics, a certain “Sparrow from Minsk” captured attention by winning 3 gold medals and a silver medal at the 1972 Munich Games competing for the Soviet Union aged just 17 years old.

Korbut, standing at 4 ft 11 is described on the Olympics website as the one who “ushered in an era of gymnastics dominated by young, lithe women.”

The Eastern European athlete became the standout of the Munich Games. After her breathtaking routine on the uneven parallel bars, Korbut recalled, "It was amazing. One day, I was a nobody, and the next day, I was a star."

Korbut is regarded as one of the female gymnasts who revolutionised the sport. She became the first gymnast to perform a back flip to catch on the uneven bars when she was 17. In her honour, the move has since become known as the Korbut Flip, a recognition of her impact on the sport. She was also the first to do a backward somersault on the beam.

Korbut managed two Olympic appearances during her time: the first being the 1972 Munich Olympics aged 17 and the final being the 1976 Montreal Olympics aged 21.

Despite her short-lived career where she retired in 1977 at the age of 22, the Belarusian gymnast won 4 Olympic gold medals.

She has since settled in the United States with her family mentoring a new generation of gymnasts as a coach after migrating in 1991 from Minsk to New Jersey, fearing the long-term health effects of the nearby Chernobyl nuclear reactor accident in Ukraine.

Lopez's victory was celebrated in his hometown of Herradura, located in the Pinar del Rio province, 140 kilometres from Havana. The town's residents took the day off to support their local hero, who had honed his wrestling skills on Herradura's dusty streets.

The soon-to-be 42-year-old athlete was cheered on by family members and friends, including his 66-year-old mother, Leonor Nunez.

Leonor Nunez, overwhelmed with emotion, shared her thoughts on her son's achievement. "There are two biggest challenges Mijain had to fight: his weight and his sport. When I saw him beat his weight, I just thought the second thing would be...as he says, he is 'The Invincible,' and no one will beat him," she told AFP.

Nunez also spoke about the unique challenge of facing Yasmani Acosta, a childhood friend who now represents Chile. "I told him that they are both Cuban, but that Yasmani represents Chile. They have been lifelong friends, so he should apologise off the mat, but on the mat, he has to win," she recounted.

Lopez's journey to this historic win came after a three-year absence from the mat due to retirement. He defeated world champion Amin Mirzazadeh in the quarter-finals before facing his “lifelong” friend  Acosta to set the record.

Before his latest triumph, Lopez shared the record of four consecutive gold medals with legendary athletes like Carl Lewis (athletics/long jump), Michael Phelps (swimming/200m medley), Katie Ledecky (swimming/800m freestyle), Al Oerter (athletics/discus), Paul Elvstrom (sailing), and Kaori Icho (wrestling).

“The Giant of Herradura” has only lost one of his 23 Olympic contests. This defeat came in the quarter-finals of the 2004 Athens Games.

D'Tigress, as the team is known, is the first African team to reach this stage in the Olympic Basketball Tournaments for both men and women. Their dominant third quarter, outscoring Canada 23-5 with a 15-0 run set the stage for their victory. 

Shooting 45 percent from the field and 38 percent from deep, Nigeria's defence was pivotal, holding Canada to just 37 percent overall and a poor 5-26 from long distance. 

Next, Nigeria will face the defending champions, the US women’s team, on August 7, who are aiming for their 10th Olympic gold. 

During this period, she was recognised by the Sports Authority of India. By 15, Malleswari was weightlifting in the national camp.

After four years of constant practice and hard work, she emerged as world champion in the 54-kg class, earning a bronze medal at the 1993 Melbourne World Championships.

From this point, she rose through the ranks to win gold at the 1994 Istanbul World Championships and silver at the Hiroshima Asian Games.

The climax of Malleswari’s career was at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games where she made history as India’s first female Olympic medal winner .

She won a bronze medal after lifting 110 kg in the snatch and 130 kg in the clean and jerk categories for a total of 240kg in the women’s 69kg category.

Mexican synchronised divers Osmar Olvera Ibarra and Juan Manuel Celaya won the silver medal in the synchronised 3-meter springboard event at the Paris Olympics. They narrowly missed gold, but their performance was praised for its power and elegance. Coached by Ma Jin, the duo made history by becoming the first Mexicans to win a medal in this competition. According to Mexico News Daily , the president Andrés Manuel López Obrador and the Defense Ministry (Sedena) congratulated them, and their silver medal marked Mexico's 76th medal in the history of the Summer Olympics.

Oxxo store chain reopens branches

Mexico's largest convenience store chain, Oxxo, will reopen 191 stores in Nuevo Laredo after closing due to drug cartel threats. The company reached an agreement with authorities for increased police presence and panic buttons in the stores. The closures highlight the impact of gang demands on businesses, as cartels increasingly try to control sales and pricing of goods. It was forced to close the stores after gang members abducted two employees and demanded information. The problem is not limited to smaller businesses, as larger corporations are also being targeted. The American Chamber of Commerce reported that 12% of its members have experienced organised crime taking control of their sales and distribution. The head of a business federation in Tamaulipas state was shot to death after speaking out about cartel extortion. Oxxo stores are targeted due to their widespread presence in Mexico. AP News reports that in 2022, gangs set fire to about two dozen Oxxo stores in Guanajuato to protest the arrest of a cartel leader. In 2009, severed heads were found in Styrofoam coolers with the Oxxo logo in Jalisco.

Rainfall boosts water capacity

July rains have boosted low water levels in Mexico City's reservoirs, especially in the Cutzamala system, which provides a quarter of the city's water. The system's reservoirs received above average rainfall in July, leading to a significant recovery in water levels. The main reservoirs in the system have seen an increase in their storage capacity, with some reaching their highest levels since 2016. Other reservoirs across Mexico have also seen improvements in their storage capacity, Mexico News Dail y reports. Additionally, efforts are being made to clean and de-silt the Cutzamala system to facilitate drainage and reduce flooding risks.

Drone attacks

Drug cartels in Mexico are using bomb-dropping drones to attack the army, causing casualties and creating a warzone in the region of Michoacan. According to Fox News , these attacks, carried out by cartels like Jalisco, have resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. The army is now adding anti-drone systems to combat these threats. In addition to drone attacks, the cartels are also flooding major U.S. cities with meth and fentanyl, contributing to the worst drug crisis in U.S. history. Former President Trump has stated that strikes against the Mexican drug cartels are still on the table.

False earthquake alarm

Mexico City residents were startled by a false earthquake alarm that was activated by mistake. The Center for Seismic Instrumentation and Registry (CIRES) admitted to the error, attributing it to preparations for a National Drill. Social media reactions ranged from humorous to critical. The earthquake alarm is designed to give residents enough time to evacuate buildings before a quake hits. Mexico News Daily reports that the last major earthquake in Mexico City occurred in 2017, killing 370 people and injuring over 6,000.

Khelif's father, Omar Khelif, has publicly defended his daughter amid the scrutiny. "My child is a girl. She was raised as a girl. She's a strong girl. I raised her to be hard-working and brave. She has a strong will to work and to train. The Italian opponent she faced was unable to defeat my daughter. Because my daughter was stronger and she was softer,” Omar Khelif is quoted by the AFP.

Khelif’s 5’11” frame towered over Carini’s 5’7” stature, and the bout, which lasted approximately 46 seconds, raised concerns about the Algerian's eligibility to fight at the Olympics. These concerns were amplified by Khelif's previous disqualification from the women’s world championships last year for failing gender eligibility tests.

In the aftermath of the match, Carini refused the customary handshake after Khelif was declared the winner. She has since apologised , stating, "It wasn't something I intended to do… Actually, I want to apologize to her and everyone else. I was angry because my Olympics had gone up in smoke." Carini expressed her sadness over the controversy, telling the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, "All this controversy makes me sad."

1920 Antwerp Summer Olympics

Germany, Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Turkey could not compete or present athletes due to their involvement in World War I.

1924 Paris Summer Olympics

In 1924, during the Paris Olympics, Germans again could not participate due to the extension of the previous ban resulting from the aftermath of World War I.

1948 London Summer Olympics

Germany again could not compete in the 1948 Olympic games alongside Japan. The two nations were being penalized for the consequence of their roles in World War II and its aftermath.

1964-1992 Olympic Games

Generally, from 1964 through to 1992, South Africa was banned from all the Olympic games held within that period due to its apartheid regime and racial segregation policies, which sought to discriminate against black South Africans.

1972 Munich Summer Olympics

Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) was banned due to international pressure and protests against the country’s racial segregation policies.

2000 Sydney Summer Olympics

Afghanistan banned and could not present athletes due to the ruling Taliban’s stance on women.

2016 Rio Summer Olympics

Kuwait was also suspended by the IOC due to government interference in the country’s Olympic committee during the Rio Olympics in 2016.

2022 Beijing Winter Olympics

North Korea was banned due to its decision to withdraw from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, citing COVID-19 concerns, which violated the Olympic Charter.

2024 Paris Summer Olympics

Russia and Belarus were banned in January 2023 by the IOC due to Russia's war on Ukraine. The IOC declared “solidarity with Ukraine” and prohibited Russia and its ally Belarus from officially competing. However, individual athletes from these nations can participate on a restricted basis, with 15 Russian and 17 Belarusian athletes competing as neutral athletes.

Kim Yeji

The 31-year-old shooter from South Korea showcased absolute control and charisma in the 10-meter women’s air pistol event. A video of Yeji, captioned “The most ‘Main Character Energy’,” has gone viral, amassing over 37 million views on X and more than 338,000 likes. Yeji won a silver medal in the women’s 10-meter air pistol. Her sporting gear added to her “main character energy,” as she wore a black South Korea uniform zipped up to the neck, a backward baseball hat, and black wire-rimmed shooting glasses. “I am confident all the time. … I, Kim Yeji, am going to win gold no matter what,” she told reporters.

Yusuf Dikec

Turkey’s 51-year-old pistol shooter, Yusuf Dikec, captured public attention with his unique style and charisma. Dikec went viral after a picture of him surfaced on social media , showing him without the specialised goggles or ear protection common among Olympic shooting competitors. Instead, Dikec wore regular prescription glasses, a regular shirt, and earplugs, yet still managed to outperform much of the competition. “My shooting technique is one of the rare shooting techniques in the world. I shoot with both eyes open. Even the referees are surprised by this,” he said. Dikec, along with his partner Sevval Ilayda Tarhan, took second place in the mixed team 10-meter air pistol event, despite his minimal gear.

The games started in France's capital, Paris on July 26, and are expected to end on August 11, 2024.

What they said

"I am a fighter. My father taught me to be a warrior. When I am in the ring, I use that mindset, the mindset of a warrior, a winning mindset. This time I couldn’t make it. I didn’t lose tonight, I just surrendered with maturity,” Carini told reporters. Adding that "I'm out, my dream is over…I felt really sad, with a broken heart. It's not right for my Olympics to end here, it's not right for my dream to end here, because an athlete makes so many sacrifices. I'm not ashamed to say that I gave up, I'm not even afraid to go back to that ring." Ahead of the bout, IOC spokesman Mark Adams defended the body's decision for Paris 2024 saying, "This involves real people and we are talking about real people's lives here," he told reporters on Thursday. "They have lost and they have won against other women over the years." British author J.K. Rowling wrote on X that, "A young female boxer has just had everything she’s worked and trained for snatched away because you allowed a male to get in the ring with her. #Paris2024 will be forever tarnished by this brutal injustice.” Italy's right-wing Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Carini's bout against Khelif was not a fight among equals. "I think that athletes who have male genetic characteristics should not be admitted to women's competitions. And not because you want to discriminate against someone, but to protect the right of female athletes to be able to compete on equal terms."

“We've heard a lot of comments, most of them are very positive, and you're right when we talk about food, there's also a question of taste. Just to say that we've worked with the NOCs (National Olympic Committee) for months on the menus that are provided to the athletes. They were all shared with them, previous to the Games so that we make sure that we can provide them with the right menus and food needed for their performances," Descamps said, as quoted by the AFP.

Athletes have expressed dissatisfaction with the large quantity of vegan food being served, which they claim has left them without enough meat. Olympians in Paris reported a shortage of protein-rich food, with some alleging that organizers had restricted the amount they were permitted to consume.

Before the Games began, it was announced that 60% of food options in the athlete’s village would be “plant-based” as part of an initiative to make Paris the most sustainable Olympics ever.

"We have been having cases of hyperthermia and heatstroke for several years now, particularly involving racing events, like the 20 km of Paris race, and other similar incidents that we didn't necessarily have before, but with the rise of temperatures, we clearly have this problem, so our first-aiders are well-prepared," said Daphne Maurel, general manager of the association, quoted by AFP.

Maurel further emphasised the current situation: "We know that there are more cases of hyperthermia on the Olympic sites that are open, we can see this first-hand, and we are reinforcing all cold packs and water, if necessary. We also tell all our first-aiders that, when they take charge of a victim, whether it's someone who's fainted or not feeling very well, they immediately check their temperature. This is done systematically, and they place the person in the shade in a cool place, and as soon as they suspect hyperthermia or see that the temperature is high, they quickly carry out a medical check-up and call for medical advice.”

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games , which began on July 26, feature over ten thousand athletes competing in 32 different sports, including various outdoor events like marathons, football, and rugby. The games will conclude on August 11.

Olympic organisers are hopeful that the sunny weather and high temperatures will improve the Seine's water quality enough for triathletes to compete.

The men’s event had been rescheduled for Wednesday, to take place after the women's triathlon, which is also set for that day.

Earlier this month, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo took a dip in the Seine to prove the safety of the River. City authorities have announced plans to open three public swimming sites in the river by June next year.

However, rainfall often causes sewer systems to overflow into the Seine, significantly increasing concentrations of infection-causing bacteria like E. coli.