Cuba's Boxing Team Fails to Shine in Paris

Cuban lightweight boxer, 24-year-old Álvarez, stands as the sole hope for his nation to secure a gold medal at the ongoing Paris Olympics. Competing in the 63.5-kilogram final at Roland Garros, he has already contributed significantly to Cuba's performance, achieving four of the country's seven victories in the tournament. Regardless of the outcome against France's Sofiane Oumiha, Álvarez will ensure that Cuba returns with at least one medal, marking the nation’s smallest Olympic haul in 56 years. Historically, Cuba has been a powerhouse in Olympic boxing, trailing only the United States in total gold medals. However, the Cuban team in Paris is notably smaller, reflecting changes in the Olympic landscape since the Tokyo Games. The nation has only failed to secure a boxing gold medal once since 1968, a stark contrast to the current situation where other countries, including the Dominican Republic, are matching or surpassing Cuba's achievements. Despite the challenges, Álvarez remains optimistic about the team's capabilities. He emphasized Cuba's enduring reputation as a top contender in boxing, even with a reduced squad of five athletes. The tournament's early days were rocky for Cuba, highlighted by the unexpected loss of two-time Olympic champion La Cruz, which shook the team's confidence. As Álvarez prepares for his final bout, he acknowledges the pressure on the team but remains focused on delivering a strong performance, underscoring the significance of the Olympic Games in the world of sports.