Kuwait City, Kuwait, July 20, 2024: With the Olympic Games just around the corner, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our athletes a successful and enjoyable Paris 2024.
Following our 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China less than one year ago, the Olympic Games marks the final step on the ladder to the top of your sport.
Success can be measured in many ways – and every athlete has their part to play in the process.
While an Olympic gold medal represents the pinnacle of sporting achievement, silver and bronze medals will also be in the history books for all time.
Reaching a final, for example in athletics or swimming, can also elevate an athlete to national hero, while achieving a Personal Best or National Record is also something to be celebrated.
We are confident that our Asian athletes will represent our 44 National Olympic Committees with pride and honour, and show to the world the diversity, unity and athletic prowess of the continent.
As a six-time Olympian myself, from Tokyo 1964 to Los Angeles 1984, I urge our athletes to enjoy every moment of Paris 2024.
For many athletes it will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so soak up the atmosphere inside the Olympic Village and see how the Olympic Games brings people together from all four corners of the world like no other event.
Your National Olympic Committee has worked hard to provide you with the best environment in which to produce your peak performance, so give it your best shot and leave nothing behind on the field of play.
The most important thing is to compete with dignity and to show fair play at all times. This is the mark of a true Olympian – an athlete who can display the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect, no matter the circumstances.
The Olympic Council of Asia is looking forward to a golden summer of celebration at Paris 2024.