Frustrated with France, Arkhelangskiy savours Asian Games gold for adopted Bahrain

Tokyo - Michel Arkhangelskiy, a 21-year-old swimmer with a complex background, is celebrating his first major victory at the Asian Games after winning the 50-metre butterfly gold. Born to political refugees who fled Russia for France, Arkhangelskiy's path to the Tokyo Aquatics Centre was not an easy one. He faced challenges after representing Russia, fearing arrest due to his family's political opinions.

France was also not a viable option, as he had lived there for 16 years but was not a citizen. Disappointed by the lack of choices, Arkhangelskiy finally found a home in Bahrain. The Gulf nation welcomed him with open arms, providing top athletes born overseas with the support they needed. For Arkhangelskiy, swimming for Bahrain turned out to be a win-win situation, as the country gained its first Asian Games swimming title.

The swimmer declined to disclose the specifics of his Bahrain-based sponsorship, but expressed his gratitude for the country's investment in his sport. With everything covered and the best conditions to perform, Arkhangelskiy secured his Asian record in the 50-meter butterfly race, setting the stage for his impressive gold medal win.