Paris Olympics 2024: Athletes grappling with heat, scarcity of food, theft and transport woes

Olympics is considered as the biggest sports extravaganza across the globe. The organising country often leaves no stones unturned in its preparation to provide every kind of facilities to the athletes. However, Paris Olympics 2024 is facing severe criticism by the athletes and the officials as they are facing several problems while participating in the mega event.

As per reports, a bus ride from the Olympic Village to the Table Tennis Arena takes 45 minutes. Travelling on one of the hottest days of the Games in a non-air-conditioned coach was like a ‘journey to hell’ for the Indian boxers. Many other elite athletes are also complaining about heat and other problems in the marquee event costing close to $9 billion.

“It was very suffocating. I was sweating even before I entered the arena,” said an athlete.

Apart from heat woes, Olympians in Paris are losing sleep due to empty stomachs, transport headache and concerns about their belongings.

As per sources, a Japanese rugby player has lost his wedding ring. An Australian coach complained of a stolen credit card. The Americans have mocked the cramped bedrooms. South Korean swimmers checked out after just one day, citing transportation issues. And the Indians feel the food is inadequate and rationed.

“From sleeping to bus to food… I don’t think there is any athlete I have spoken with is satisfied,” said India tennis star Sumit Nagal.

To reduce the carbon footprint, the organisers decided to do away with air conditioning inside athletes’ rooms. It resulted in sweaty Olympians cramped in pokey quarters.

According to two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu, it is the hottest of the Olympics so far and she could hardly sleep due to the condition.

Many athletes complained that the cardboard beds are so uncomfortable and they are facing trouble in sleeping peacefully. In the dining hall, either there isn’t enough food or, if it is available, the queue is very, very long.

As a result, India boxer Amit Panghal has been ordering dal and roti for dinner from a nearby Indian restaurant due to the scarcity of food.