Paris: Indian judoka Tulika Maan’s participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics was cut short following a swift defeat in the women’s +78kg elimination round of 32.
Maan was bested 10-0 by Cuba’s Idalys Ortiz, an experienced Olympian and the gold medalist from London 2012, merely 28 seconds into the match. Ortiz’s rapid win advanced her to the round of 16, marking the end of Maan’s Olympic pursuit.
The Paris 2024 repechage system allows athletes who lose in the quarter-finals a second shot at bronze medals, which meant Maan had no further chances to compete.
Despite the quick exit, Tulika Maan, a Commonwealth Games silver medalist and ex-South Asian Games champion, remains a figure of pride.
Her Olympic debut, although brief, signifies a noteworthy achievement in her career. With two bronze medals from the Asian Junior Championships to her name, Maan’s potential and prospects in judo are well recognized.