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Ukrainian athletes in Paris, France, for the Olympics are experiencing a mix of emotions, balancing joy with sorrow.
While they are striving to fulfill their dream of competing at one of the world’s most prestigious sports events, they also carry the weight of the ongoing war in their home country.
Polina Buhrova, a 20-year-old badminton player participating in her first Games, expressed the emotional impact of reading news from Ukraine, stating that it brings about great sadness. However, she also sees their presence at the Olympics as a way to demonstrate their strength and resilience.
At the Olympics village, living quarters for athletes from various nations are decorated with flags and motivational slogans.
The Ukrainian house is adorned with children's drawings featuring messages of resilience and support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
This tradition of supporting soldiers has extended to cheering for the Ukrainian athletes.
Fencer Olga Kharlan, who has a unique journey to the Paris Games, expressed her determination to succeed for her country.
Despite the challenges of training abroad due to the war and being separated from her family, she emphasised that their performance would go beyond the sports arena, serving as a tribute to those who had lost their lives in the conflict.
This year, Ukraine will have the smallest number of athletes in its history of participating in the Summer Games, with 140 competitors in 26 sports.
