China’s COVID-delayed Asian Games marred by politics and officiating mishaps.
China’s 19th Asian Games: A Triumph and Controversy
By Ian Ransom
October 8, 2023 – 8:57 PM PDT
HANGZHOU, China, Oct 9 (Reuters) – The 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou were hailed as a soft power triumph for China, with a record-breaking gold medal haul and no major security incidents. However, behind the scenes, the event was marred by diplomatic tensions, questionable officiating, and a lack of accountability.
Before the Games even began, a visa dispute prevented three Indian athletes from competing, sparking controversy. The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) promised to investigate but remained silent on the matter.
Despite the Games’ official slogan of “Heart to Heart, @Future,” it seemed that the motto should have been “Let things slide.” North Korea, a country known for its non-compliance with anti-doping regulations, was allowed to participate with the support of the OCA.
While the event showcased some remarkable achievements, such as China’s dominance in swimming and India’s breakthrough performance, there were numerous controversies. Officiating disputes, broken legs, false starts, and even player misconduct tarnished the athletics and team sports competitions.
Despite these setbacks, the Asian Games also had its moments of triumph. Breakdancing made its debut, esports proved to be a hit, and women athletes from Afghanistan defied the Taliban’s ban on women’s sports.
China emerged as the overall winner, topping the medal table with a staggering 201 golds. Japan and South Korea followed closely behind. However, the true legacy of the 19th Asian Games will be remembered for both its successes and controversies.
Additional reporting by Martin Pollard; Editing by Gerry Doyle
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What were some of the controversies surrounding the 19th Asian Games, including the disqualification of a Malaysian athlete and accusations of biased judging in certain events?
Highlighting the controversies surrounding the Games include the disqualification of a Malaysian athlete for drug use, accusations of biased judging in certain events, and a lack of transparency in the selection process for the organizing committee.
One of the most significant controversies was the decision to allow China to host the Games despite ongoing diplomatic tensions. Critics argued that this decision undermined the spirit of unity and cooperation that the Asian Games are meant to promote. Additionally, there were concerns about China’s human rights record and its treatment of minority populations.
The lack of accountability and transparency on the part of the OCA further fueled these controversies. Despite promises to investigate and address the various issues that arose during the Games, there were few concrete actions taken. This has led to calls for reform within the organization to ensure a fair and transparent process in the future.
Despite these controversies, the 19th Asian Games did have its moments of triumph. The performances of athletes from China, Japan, and South Korea were particularly impressive, showcasing the sporting prowess of these countries. The inclusion of new sports such as breakdancing and esports also brought a fresh and modern element to the Games.
Ultimately, the legacy of the 19th Asian Games will be a mixture of triumph and controversy. While the event showcased exceptional athletic achievements and highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation among Asian nations, it also exposed the underlying tensions and shortcomings within the organization and raised questions about the values and principles that guide the Games.
Moving forward, it is imperative for the OCA and its member countries to address these controversies and work towards ensuring a more transparent and accountable process for future Asian Games. This will not only help restore the integrity of the Games but also promote a sense of fairness and inclusivity among participating nations. Only through such reforms can the Asian Games truly live up to their potential as a celebration of Asian sports and culture.
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