Meet the Star Athletes to Watch at the 2024 Paris Olympics
The Paris 2024 Olympics is set to dazzle with an array of talent, featuring world record holders, MVPs, and Grand Slam champions from across the globe. As the Games kick off, here’s a look at the standout athletes expected to shine this summer.
Carlos Alcaraz: Tennis Sensation from Spain
At just 21, former world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz is making his Olympic debut. With four Grand Slam singles titles to his name since turning pro in 2018, Alcaraz aims for gold in both singles and doubles, partnering with the legendary Rafael Nadal.
Julian Alvarez: Argentina’s Soccer Star
Julian Alvarez, 24, is set to lead Argentina’s attack in his Olympic debut. Fresh from a successful Copa America, Alvarez’s prowess with Manchester City hints at an exciting tournament for Argentina.
Rebeca Andrade: Brazilian Gymnastics Star
Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade, 25, known for her silver and gold medals in Tokyo 2020, is expected to be a strong contender in Paris. Her recent performance at the 2023 World Gymnastics Championships highlights her as a top rival to Simone Biles.
Viktor Axelsen: Danish Badminton Champion
Viktor Axelsen, 30, the current world No. 1 in badminton, returns to defend his title. With a gold medal from Tokyo 2020 and a bronze from Rio 2016, Axelsen is poised for another stellar performance.
Dominika Banevic: Lithuania’s Young Breaking Sensation
At just 17, Dominika Banevic, or “B-girl Nicka,” stunned the world by winning the 2023 breaking world title. She’s set to make a significant impact in the debut of breaking at the Olympics.
Aitana Bonmati: Spanish Soccer Prodigy
A key player in Spain’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup victory, 26-year-old Aitana Bonmati, is making her Olympic debut. Spain’s No. 1 ranking and Bonmati’s Ballon d’Or win position her as a central figure in the quest for Olympic gold.
Sky Brown: Britain’s Skateboarding Prodigy
Sky Brown, 16, is a skateboarding sensation who won bronze at the Tokyo Games at just 13. With two X Games titles and a world championship, Brown is a favorite for gold in Paris.
Daiki Hashimoto: Japan’s Gymnastics Powerhouse
Japan’s Daiki Hashimoto, 22, is the defending Olympic all-around and high bar champion. With four world titles, including three from 2023, Hashimoto remains the gymnast to beat.
Novak Djokovic: Serbia’s Tennis Legend
Novak Djokovic, 37, aims to add an Olympic gold to his record 24 Grand Slam titles. The Serbian tennis great, who won bronze in Beijing 2008, is making his fifth Olympic appearance.
Mondo Duplantis: Sweden’s Pole Vault Phenomenon
Armand “Mondo” Duplantis, 24, already boasts an Olympic gold and multiple world records in pole vaulting. His remarkable achievements make him a highlight in track and field events.
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce: Jamaica’s Sprint Queen
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, 37, with eight Olympic medals, is one of the greatest sprinters ever. The Paris Olympics will be her last, and she remains a formidable competitor.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Canada’s Basketball Star
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, 25, leads Canada’s strong basketball team. His standout NBA season positions him as a key player in Canada’s pursuit of an Olympic medal.
Quan Hongchan: China’s Diving Prodigy
Quan Hongchan, 17, mesmerized the world with her perfect dives in Tokyo at age 14. With multiple world titles, she’s a leading contender for more gold in Paris.
Jakob Ingebrigtsen: Norway’s Track and Field Star
Jakob Ingebrigtsen, 23, holds an Olympic gold in the 1500m and multiple world titles. His dominance in middle-distance running makes him a favorite for gold.
Nikola Jokic: Serbia’s Basketball Maestro
Nikola Jokic, 29, fresh off an NBA MVP season, is set to lead Serbia’s basketball team. Serbia’s strong Olympic history and Jokic’s prowess promise thrilling matches.
Ma Long: China’s Table Tennis Legend
Ma Long, 35, already the most decorated table tennis Olympian, seeks his sixth gold medal in Paris. His unparalleled career marks him as a standout in his sport.
Mijain Lopez: Cuba’s Wrestling Titan
Mijain Lopez, 41, aims for a historic fifth consecutive Olympic gold in Greco-Roman wrestling. His unprecedented achievements could set a new Olympic record.
Leon Marchand: France’s Swimming Hope
Leon Marchand, 22, trained by Bob Bowman, aims for gold in events where he rivals Michael Phelps’ records. His prowess in individual medley events makes him a key figure for the host nation.
Rory McIlroy: Ireland’s Golfing Great
Rory McIlroy, 35, represents Ireland and seeks his first Olympic medal. Despite a decade without major wins, McIlroy remains a top contender in golf.
Summer McIntosh: Canada’s Swimming Prodigy
At 17, Summer McIntosh already holds world records and world championship titles. Her versatility in multiple events positions her for Olympic success.
Teddy Riner: France’s Judo Legend
Teddy Riner, 36, a five-time Olympic medalist, aims to add to his record in Paris. His status as a judo icon will be highlighted on home soil.
Iga Swiatek: Poland’s Tennis Prodigy
Iga Swiatek, 23, excels on Roland Garros’ clay courts and is the top-ranked female tennis player. Her familiarity with the venue makes her the favorite for gold.
Lasha Talakhadze: Georgia’s Weightlifting Giant
Lasha Talakhadze, 30, holds world records in weightlifting and aims for a third consecutive Olympic gold. His dominance in the sport is unmatched.
Victor Wembanyama: France’s Basketball Phenom
Victor Wembanyama, 20, has made a significant impact in the NBA and now joins France’s Olympic team. His defensive skills and towering presence make him a player to watch.
The Paris 2024 Olympics promises to be a spectacular showcase of talent, with these athletes poised to make history and capture the world’s attention. Stay tuned for an unforgettable summer of sport. Just Now News.Press
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