Discover the captivating history of the oldest sports featured in the Olympic Games, dating back to the inaugural 1896 Athens Games. Explore the evolution of these disciplines, from their early beginnings with exclusive men’s events to the inclusion of women and the expansion of categories. Learn about the origins and enduring legacies of iconic sports like athletics, fencing, swimming, gymnastics, cycling, shooting, weightlifting, Greco-Roman wrestling, road cycling, and tennis.
Indian sabre fencer Bhavani Devi, who made history by becoming the first Indian fencer to qualify for the Olympics in Tokyo, has seen her hopes of competing in Paris in 2024 dashed after failing to qualify in the Asia Oceania Zonal qualifiers. Despite her impressive performances and improvements under the guidance of renowned coach Christian Bauer, Devi’s Olympic aspirations have been put on hold for another four years. As she comes to terms with the disappointment, Devi remains determined to continue her journey in the sport, drawing inspiration from older fencers who have found success even in their 30s.
