Schoolgirl wins gold as Japan prepares for the Games

TOKYO, July 26 (Reuters) – Japan mined more gold on Monday as sentiment towards the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Olympics appeared to change, and local fans challenged organizers to get a glimpse of the Games.

Pint-sized Momiji Nishiya, 13, won gold in street skateboarding – a novelty at the Olympics here in Tokyo – while in one of the Games’ flagship sports, a “Terminator” won. tracked down a dominator to set the pool on fire.

In shock at the aquatics center, four-time British Olympian Tom Daley and new diving partner Matty Lee claimed a resounding victory in the men’s 10-meter synchronized platform to end China’s gold race in this event .

Chinese divers had triumphed in the last four Olympics.

Ariarne Titmus lived up to her “Terminator” nickname by recapturing the lead from American Katie Ledecky to win the 400m freestyle final and fueling the fierce rivalry between Australia and the United States. United States.

“I can’t believe it, I’m trying to contain my emotions,” said Titmus, who praised her rival for raising the bar in the sport. “I thanked her, I wouldn’t be here without her. She set this incredible standard.”

GAMES OVERVIEW

The United States claimed victory in the men’s 4x100m relay, while Adam Peaty roared with pride after becoming the first British swimmer to defend an Olympic title with gold in the 100m breaststroke.

The high-stakes swim finals, held in the morning in Tokyo to reach prime-time US viewers, took place in a near-empty aquatic center with spectators banned due to COVID-19 restrictions.

A fan’s loud cheers, however, were heard across the world as video footage of Titmus coach Dean Boxall headbanging and dancing in the stands became a priority for NBC commentators. and went viral, making him an instant Games meme.

Some locals defied organizers and rallied along the triathlon course, seizing a rare opportunity to see the competition live during the pandemic-affected Games.

“I think the risk of getting infected is extremely low, almost zero,” said Masao Kitada, a 35-year-old finance worker, standing by the side of the road. “The Tokyo Games are very special so I can’t miss this chance.” Read more

Norwegian Kristian Blummenfelt won gold on the outdoor triathlon course on Odaiba Island in Tokyo Bay.

SKATEBOARDING SCHOOL GIRL

Organizers reported 16 new cases of the coronavirus linked to the Olympics on Monday, bringing the total to 148.

Support for Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga slipped nine points to 34%, its lowest since taking office, a poll found on Monday, as concerns over COVID-19 cloud his hopes for the Tokyo Olympics. would increase his marks ahead of this year’s election.

But the Japanese media were full of Olympic successes.

Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper, one of the world’s largest newspapers in terms of circulation, splashed photos of gold-medalist Abe siblings in judo, swimmer Yui Ohashi and skateboarder Yuto Horigome with the word “Gold” under each of their names.

Schoolgirl skater Nishiya is sure to lead the newsletters and adorn the front pages now.

“I broke down in tears because I was more than happy,” Nishiya said, describing the moment she realized she had won gold.

His victory put Japan atop the medal table with six gold medals, along with China and the United States.

Naomi Osaka looked good to add to the local course later in the Games when she qualified for the third round, passing Switzerland’s Viktorija Golubic, 50, 6-3 6-2.

“Well you know it would definitely mean a lot to me to win gold here, but I know it’s a process,” she said.

TOKYO OLYMPIC GAMES: THE BEST OF JULY 26

Reporting by Simon Evans, Aaron Sheldrick, Martin Petty, Mari Saito, Linda Sieg, Makika Yamazaki, Karolos Grohmann; Writing by Leela de Kretser; Editing by Michael Perry / Peter Rutherford

Our Standards: Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.