Asian Games close in Japan after records, rancour, rain

The Asian Games concluded in Japan on Sunday, concluding a fortnight of record-breaking performances and challenges. The Games, the largest of their kind in the continent, drew over 17,000 athletes and officials, surpassing the numbers seen at the Olympics. Chinese 13-year-old swimming sensation Yu Zidi claimed three golds, including two set in world-record times, signaling her potential as a future Olympic contender.

Japanese swimmer Shin Ohashi, 17, also made waves by breaking the men's 200m breaststroke world record. In athletics, Thai sprinter Puripol Boonson, 20, completed a remarkable 100m-200m double despite the persistent rain, earning him MVP honors. The Games' closing ceremony, filled with color and song, saw Japan hand over the hosting duties to Qatar for the 2030 edition.

Despite a successful Games, top officials were under pressure after facing criticism over mishandled issues, mediocre crowd attendance, and accusations of mismanagement. Organizers opted to avoid a traditional athletes' village, instead providing accommodation in temporary wooden units, cruise ship, and hotels. While some teams found the conditions cramped, others praised the innovative approach.

Amidst the mishaps, the Games offered moments of triumph, including a blockbuster cricket final and North Korean weightlifter Ri Song Gum's three world record-breaking performances. However, the overall experience was marred by problems such as buses failing to arrive and athletes being sent to the wrong venues, leading to a disappointing F grade from the Korean Sport and Olympic Committee president.

Despite the challenges, Japan successfully hosted the Games, securing 83 gold medals, placing second behind China's impressive 169.