African Athletes to Watch at the Paris Games

As the world prepares for the 2024 Paris Games, Africa is represented in most disciplines, with athletes from various countries vying for medals. Here are some of the continent’s top contenders:

South Sudan Soars in Basketball

Just 13 years after gaining independence, South Sudan will be a star attraction in the men’s basketball competition. The Bright Stars qualified for the Paris Games via their first appearance at the Fiba World Cup in September last year. Championed by former NBA star Luol Deng, the team is determined to make a mark on the international stage.

Marathon Man Kipchoge Eyes Third Olympic Gold

Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge is one of the most eagerly awaited African athletes at the Paris Games. The 39-year-old is already a double Olympic marathon champion, and if he secures a hat trick in Paris, he will be crowned the greatest of all time.

Ta Lou Sprints for the Podium

Ivorian sprinter Marie-Josée Ta Lou has made it clear that this is her last Olympics and last chance to finally get a medal. The four-time Olympic finalist is determined to break the cycle and climb to the top of the podium.

Faso’s Zango to Leap into History Books Again?

Burkina Faso’s triple jump star Hugues Fabrice Zango made history at Tokyo 2020 by claiming bronze in the men’s event. The 30-year-old, who also has a doctorate in electrical engineering, is hoping to bring Burkina Faso its first Olympic gold medal.

Cissé Looks to Reclaim Taekwondo Title

Cheick Salah Junior Cissé is out to win his second taekwondo Olympic title after Rio in 2016. The 30-year-old is flag bearer for Côte d’Ivoire’s delegation to Paris 2024 and is determined to make a strong impression.

Mali Returns to the Pitch

Mali has waited 20 years to return to the Olympic football competition, and qualified by beating Guinea in a play-off match at the U23 Africa Cup of Nations in 2023. Coach Alou Badra Diallo is confident that his team can achieve great things.

All Eyes on South African Swimmer Smith

South African breaststroke champion Tatjana Smith won gold in the 200m breaststroke in Tokyo 2020, beating the world 200m record. She competes in both distances in Paris and expectations are high that she’ll go home with a medal.

Hatherly, South Africa’s Mountain Biking Standout

Alan Hatherly got a major boost ahead of the Paris Games by winning the men’s elite cross-country at the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup. The 28-year-old is expected to put up a good fight in the hunt for a medal.

These African athletes are set to make a mark on the Paris Games, and their determination and talent are sure to inspire fans around the world.