India (Commonwealth Union)_ As the world eagerly awaits the commencement of the Paris Olympics 2024, India’s presence in the global sporting arena extends beyond its national team. With a diverse cohort of 117 athletes, India aims to surpass its previous records and secure double-digit medals across 16 sports. However, the Games will also showcase Indian-origin athletes representing other countries, adding to the multicultural tapestry of the event. Here are some of the Indian origin athletes in Paris Olympics 2024 who are playing for their adopted nations.
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Amar Deshi representing Canada
In wrestling, Amar Deshi represents Canada with pride. He was born in Surrey, British Columbia, to parents originating from Jalandhar, Punjab. His father, a former Greco-Roman national champion, instilled a passion for the sport in him. Deshi earned his Olympic berth through the Pan American Wrestling Olympic Qualification Tournament and will compete in the 125 kg category. His participation highlights the enduring legacy of Indian wrestling prowess transplanted onto the Canadian sporting landscape.
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Jessica Gaudreault representing Canada
Jessica Gaudreault, hailing from Ottawa, Canada, is set to guard the goalposts for Canada’s water polo team at the Paris Olympics 2024. Her familial ties to Punjab highlight the global reach of Indian heritage in diverse sporting disciplines. Gaudreault’s journey includes contributions to Canada’s water polo successes, including a silver medal at the FINA World League Super Final, where she was distinguished as the tournament’s best goalkeeper.
Kanak Jha representing USA
Kanak Jha, another notable athlete, represents the USA in table tennis, with familial roots tracing back to Mumbai and Kolkata. Jha made history as the youngest American Olympian at the Rio 2016 Games and has since garnered attention for his achievements, including a quarterfinal appearance in the World Championship. As a two-time Olympian, he continues to strive for his maiden Olympic medal, embodying the spirit of sporting excellence fostered within the Indian diaspora.
Rajeev Ram representing USA
One standout athlete is Rajeev Ram, a tennis stalwart born in Denver, USA, to parents of Indian descent from Bengaluru, Karnataka. His career trajectory includes a remarkable achievement at the Australian Open 2019, where he clinched the mixed doubles title, marking his first Grand Slam victory. Since then, Ram has continued to excel, amassing a total of six Grand Slam titles, including mixed and men’s doubles championships. His journey exemplifies skill, perseverance, and the global reach of Indian heritage in the realm of professional tennis.
Shanti Pereira representing Singapore
Singapore’s track and field sensation, Shanti Pereira, proudly bears her roots from Kerala. Her illustrious career includes breaking a 49-year national medal drought by securing a silver in the women’s 100m at the Asian Games. Pereira holds multiple records, including impressive runs at the SEA Games and the Asian Athletics Championships. Her achievements underscore the impactful contributions of individuals of Indian origin in propelling Singaporean athletics to international acclaim.
Prithika Pavade representing France
France’s rising star in table tennis, Prithika Pavade, has quickly ascended the ranks since her Olympic debut at age 16. Born to a father hailing from Puducherry, her introduction to the sport came early under her father’s guidance. Pavade, placed 12th in the women’s singles, is poised to compete for a podium finish, showcasing her prowess and determination on the global stage. Her journey reflects the intersection of talent nurtured through Indian heritage and French sports excellence.
Overall, India’s presence at Paris Olympics 2024 not only marks India’s ambitious pursuit of sporting glory but also celebrates the achievements of Indian origin athletes competing for other countries around the world. These individuals exemplify resilience, talent, and the rich diversity that enriches the global sporting landscape. As they prepare to compete on the grand stage, their stories inspire and underscore the enduring impact of Indian heritage in shaping international sportsmanship and excellence.
