After securing medals in gold, silver, and bronze, Cuba advanced several positions on Wednesday, now resting at 21st place in the Olympic standings as the competitive calendar of Paris 2024 nears its conclusion.
Undoubtedly, the highlight—and the biggest "boost"—of the day was the gold medal won by boxer Erislandy Álvarez, who triumphed over Frenchman Sofiane Oumiha by a split decision (3-2) in the 63.5 kg category. At the Stade Roland Garros, the fighter from Cienfuegos showcased relentless aggression, exposing the defensive flaws of Oumiha, who had previously won silver in Rio de Janeiro 2016 and was a three-time world champion (2017, 2021, 2023).
Álvarez demonstrated intensity, fury, and control over the distance, avenging his previous loss in the last world championship. From start to finish, he proved to be the best in his division.
Other Notable Performances
Meanwhile, Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzmán fell to American favorite Sara Ann Hildebrandt (0-3) in the freestyle final but still earned the island's first silver medal in women's wrestling at the Olympics. On her 28th birthday, "La Chiqui," as she is affectionately known, couldn't overcome the American's drive, who had secured a bronze medal at Tokyo 2020.
To reach the 50 kg final, the Havana-born wrestler defeated Turkey's Evi Demirhan (7-6) in her debut and dominated Lithuania's Gabija Dilyte (10-0) in the quarterfinals. However, she lost to India's Vinesh Vinesh (0-5) in the semifinals. By a twist of fate, her conqueror was disqualified for failing the routine weigh-in, giving Guzmán another chance.
In the Greco-Roman wrestling category, Gabriel Rosillo claimed bronze in the 97 kg division after Uzbek Rustam Assakalov suffered an injury seconds into their match. Rosillo, the 2023 world champion, had an easy win as Assakalov was forced to withdraw due to a shoulder injury.
The Santiago native, considered one of the division's favorites, missed out on a gold medal opportunity after losing to Armenian Artur Alexanyan (3-5) in the semifinals. The Pan American champion deployed his full range of techniques but couldn't overcome Alexanyan, a four-time world champion and Rio 2016 gold medalist.
These achievements add to the gold medal won by wrestling legend Mijaín López (130 kg) and the bronze secured by boxer Arlen López (80 kg).
As the competition wraps up, the canoeist Yarisleidis Cirilo Duboys (C2-200 meters) stands as the only realistic title contender, making it challenging for the island to meet or exceed the expectations set by its sports authorities. A few weeks ago, José Antonio Miranda, Director of High Performance at the National Institute of Sports, Physical Education, and Recreation (INDER), stated that the goal was to win five gold medals and finish among the top 25 nations in the medal tally.
FAQs About Cuba's Performance in Paris 2024 Olympics
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Cuba's notable achievements and overall performance in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Who won the gold medal for Cuba in the 63.5 kg boxing category?
Erislandy Álvarez won the gold medal for Cuba in the 63.5 kg boxing category by defeating Frenchman Sofiane Oumiha.
What was Yusneylis Guzmán's achievement in the Paris 2024 Olympics?
Yusneylis Guzmán earned a silver medal in the women's wrestling 50 kg category, marking the first silver for Cuba in women's wrestling at the Olympics.
How did Gabriel Rosillo secure his bronze medal?
Gabriel Rosillo secured his bronze medal in the 97 kg Greco-Roman wrestling category after his opponent, Rustam Assakalov, suffered a shoulder injury and couldn't continue the match.
What is Cuba's overall goal for the Paris 2024 Olympics?
Cuba aimed to win five gold medals and finish among the top 25 nations in the medal tally, as stated by José Antonio Miranda, Director of High Performance at INDER.