In the annals of Asian Games history, a few moments stand out for their controversy, emotional intensity, and the debates they sparked off. The 2014 Incheon and 2018 Jakarta Asian Games had their fair share of such unforgettable instances.
In Incheon 2014, Indian boxer Sarita Devi found herself making the headlines not for her punches, but for a profound act of dissent. Despite a performance that many viewed as dominant against her opponent Jina Park, Sarita was adjudged the loser, earning her a bronze. What followed was an act that reverberated around the sports world: an emotional Sarita, tears streaming down her face, refused to accept the bronze during the medal ceremony. Instead, in a symbolic gesture, she handed it over to silver medalist Jina, before departing in tears. The verdict against Sarita was widely criticised, with many claiming her bout against Jina clearly showed her as the superior boxer.
Another controversy during the same edition involved Japan's star swimmer, Naoya Tomita. Accused of stealing a camera, he was slapped with an $890 fine by a South Korean court. While Tomita initially owned up to the theft, he later changed his tune, alleging that someone had stolen his bag and planted the camera in it. However, surveillance footage told a different story, ultimately pinning the crime on the swimmer.
Jumping to the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games, drama unfolded in the Archery arena. The Indian Compound Archery team, comprising Rajat Chauhan, Aman Saini, and Abhishek Sharma, was moments away from gold. They believed they had edged out Korea with a score of 229 to 227. Celebrations were in full swing, but a revised score turned joy into dismay. The score was adjusted to a tie at 229-229, leading to a shoot-off. This too ended in a tie at 29-29. According to the rules, the victor in such scenarios is decided based on which team's arrows are closest to the bulls-eye. Unfortunately for India, Korea triumphed, relegating the Indian team to a bittersweet silver medal.
These moments not only highlighted the intense competition and spirit of the Asian Games but also showcased the raw emotions and controversies that occasionally overshadow the sporting achievements.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
India's quest for glory: Aiming to eclipse 2018's record medal tally in Asian Games 2023
Asian Games 2023: Coach Igor Stimac's fears come to life, China thrash Sunil Chhetri's India 5-1
