Youth Olympic Games end in Senegal with organizers touting Africa’s hosting capability

The Youth Olympic Games concluded in Senegal on Friday, with organizers proudly declaring this as Africa's inaugural Olympic event, reinforcing the continent's capacity to host significant international competitions. Spanning two weeks, nearly 2,700 athletes aged 14 to 17 engaged in 25 sports and 153 medal events, held across Dakar, Diamniadio, and the coastal town of Saly.

Closing ceremonies for athletes and delegations took place on Friday evening at the Games village in Diamniadio, marking the extinguishing of the flame.

International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry, a former Zimbabwean swimmer, expressed on Thursday that participants likely arrived with expectations, but those expectations were significantly surpassed. Coventry emphasized that Africa showcased its capability, opening the door to further action. Throughout the Games, the crowds responded enthusiastically to Senegalese and other African athletes' performances.

However, these celebrations occurred amidst a cost-of-living crisis, sparking debates among some Senegalese about the Games' expenditure while displaced businesses lamented the impact on their livelihoods. Authorities highlighted improved infrastructure, training, and opportunities for local companies as positives.

China topped the medal table with 18 golds, followed by Japan with 11 and Russia with eight. Three African nations ranked next: Egypt with six, and Ethiopia and Senegal with five each. Beach wrestling made its Olympic debut, generating pride in Senegal, a country where wrestling is a national sport and celebrated athletes are highly esteemed.

Elisabeth Diatta, a 16-year-old wrestler from Senegal, secured the country's first Olympic gold. Other African countries also achieved victories. Beach wrestling's Olympic debut brought particular pride to Senegal, where wrestling is a national sport and its athletes enjoy devoted followings. Female wrestler Elisabeth Diatta, 16, claimed Senegal's maiden Olympic gold, with her fellow countrymen adding to the tally with two more wrestling golds each.

The debut of baseball5, a simplified form of baseball, and the Chinese martial art wushu also marked significant moments. Russia's athletes competed under their national flag for the first time since their suspension in 2022, following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which triggered the ban. A refugee team also participated for the first time at the Youth Olympics, comprising six athletes from Kenya and Uganda in athletics, judo, and taekwondo.

This event unfolded as African nations increasingly recognize sports as a diplomatic and development tool, as noted by analysts. South Africa, which previously hosted the men's soccer World Cup in 2010, is currently engaged in discussions with the IOC about hosting the 2036 Olympic Games.