Cycling: Mountain Bike Women’s Cross Country Final

Evie Richards, the world cycling champion, exhibits grace in her riding and is a strong contender for the medals. However, the title favorite is Pauline Ferrand-Prévot from France. The stakes are high: the Olympics are taking place in her home country, it’s her final year competing in this event, and she has yet to claim victory in this particular competition. As someone who has won gold medals consecutively, I consider pressure a privilege, but it can be less burdensome as an underdog. You avoid the intense scrutiny and additional sponsor and media obligations that come with being the favorite. – Joanna Rowell

Swimming: Women’s 400m Freestyle Final

Among the outstanding swimmers expected to shine in this race at the Games are Katie Ledecky from the USA, known for her endurance in freestyle since her debut in London 2012. Joining her is Summer McIntosh from Canada, who impressed at just 14 years old by finishing fourth in Tokyo 2021. Furthermore, Ariarne Titmus has been exceptional this season, setting a new world record for the 200m freestyle during Australian trials. Given Titmus’ impressive form and performances under pressure, she appears to be the frontrunner. However, Ledecky, now aged 27, may primarily focus on the 1500m event, but the unpredictability of head-to-head races makes anything possible. – Ellie Simmonds (Paraphrased)

Artistic Gymnastics: Men’s Qualification

For a gymnast, qualification is undeniably the most anxiety-inducing phase as it sets the tone for the rest of their Games. A misstep could mean an early exit from the competition. It’s not always about performing your most challenging routine, but rather positioning yourself to advance to the final with others. It’s a risky game. You assess the competitors and their scores, considering alternative routines they might have attempted. A decade ago, the advice would be for the British team to give it their all. But now, with the sheer depth and strength of competition from gymnasts like Max Whitlock and Luke Whitehouse, our athletes can afford to be more strategic. (Paraphrased by me)