A tearful Gianmarco Tamberi failed to
defend his Olympic high jump title after being hospitalised with
renal colic and vomiting blood but Italy has all eyes on the
women's volleyball final against the USA and is certain of being
in the top ten on the medal table.
"I am so sorry," said the 32-year-old Marche born athlete, one
of Italy's two flag bearers in Paris.
"I am sincere in saying that I did not deserve what happened
tonight.
"I tried but it went wrong."
Italy is already arithmetically certain of being in the top ten
of the medal table.
In fact, Canada, the Azzurri's immediate pursuer, who are
currently in tenth place, can no longer catch up with them:
eleven golds for now have been won by the Azzurri, and nine by
the Canadians, who have fewer silver and bronze medals, however.
After 17 days of competitions and medals, the Paris Olympics,
the 33rd of the modern era, come to a close today.
Swim star Gregorio Paltinieri and his partner and champion
fencer Rossella Fiamingo will be Italy's flag bearers in the
closing ceremony.
The French capital is preparing for the final show with the
traditional handover of the baton to the next city that will
host the Olympic Games in 2028, namely Los Angeles.
A shower of stars is expected with the likely spectacular
participation of Tom Cruise.
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