Indians Reflect on Mediocre Performance at the Asian Games
A number of Indians have noted that Iran, currently engaged in conflict with both the United States and Israel, has secured nearly twice as many medals as India at the Nagoya Asian Games.
Why does India perform so lacklusterly across all sports beyond cricket?
Self-criticism points to systemic flaws within sports institutions—such as substandard appointments and nepotism—as well as the fact that most non-cricket disciplines are managed by government agencies.
Cricket consistently draws attention, despite being a self-funded sport with minimal state intervention and notable success.
India’s potential in athletics and other sports such as table tennis and swimming remains underrealized. Yet, in events where athletes excel, they often falter under pressure, resorting to excuses rather than acknowledging defeat or pursuing improvement.
When an athlete fails to secure a medal, Indian observers tend to immediately blame governing bodies and coaches—or lavish the athlete with undue sympathy. The athlete, not the coach, should bear primary responsibility. It is time to stop rewarding mediocrity.
Others adopt a more indifferent stance: “We embrace mediocrity.”
Some argue that evaluation can wait until competition concludes—India’s delegation still has numerous medals to claim.
Regarding India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics, one suggestion is to incorporate several distinctive indigenous sports that could boost medal counts, otherwise the host nation’s performance may appear disproportionate.
Yet this view has been countered: Qatar successfully hosted the World Cup, after all.
Indeed, that is a valid point.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1877453836220425/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.