Asian Games close in Japan after records, rancour, rain

The 20th Asian Games concluded in Nagoya, Japan on Sunday following a fortnight of record-breaking performances and challenges. The event, the largest in its history with over 17,000 athletes and officials, saw several young stars shine on the global stage. Chinese sensation Yu Zidi, only 13, claimed three gold medals, setting Games-record times in the 200m butterfly and the 200m-400m individual medley double.

Japanese swimmer Shin Ohashi, 17, also made waves by breaking the men's 200m breaststroke world record. Thai sprinter Puripol Boonson, 20, won the men's MVP award after a double of the 100m and 200m races.

Despite the impressive performances, the Games were not without issues. Poor weather impacted attendance, with the women's football semi-final between hosts Japan and South Korea drawing just 998 spectators in a 50,000-seat stadium. Organizers faced criticism for inadequate accommodations and transportation, leading to sleep shortages for athletes and teams staying in the wrong venues.

The mishaps extended to the sports themselves, including a cricket final marred by diplomatic snafus and a South Korean flag dispute at the women's football final.

While some sports like padel, MMA, and virtual taekwondo made their Olympic debuts, the host country finished second in the medals table with 83 golds, significantly trailing China's 169. Japanese President Seiko Hashimoto acknowledged numerous problems but expressed optimism for future international events in Japan.