The Cuban beach volleyball pair of Noslen Díaz and Jorge Luis Alayo were eliminated this Sunday from the beach volleyball competition at the Paris 2024 Olympics, after a 1-2 loss to the favored Swedish duo David Ahman and Jonatan Hellvig.
With the Eiffel Tower in the background, the Cuban team, undefeated in the group stage, could not maintain their level of play against the world-ranking leaders. The match scores were 11-21, 28-26, and 15-11.
In statements to the press published on Facebook, captain Alayo expressed that they gave it their all: "We leave with our heads held high. We made many unforced errors, which hurt us a lot."
Despite the setback, the young duo from the island, who qualified for the Olympics after strong performances in the world circuit, showed character in their Olympic debut and left their supporters dreaming of notable future performances.
"They never gave up, showing glimpses of the quality that has won them fans, leaving a memorable image in their farewell," reported the digital site JIT in their game summary.
A quick glance at social media shows that Díaz and Alayo had captured the attention of Cuban fans, who suffer daily defeats of their athletes on the global stage.
So far, Cuba has secured only two medals, both in boxing: a silver for finalist Erislandy Álvarez (63.5 kilograms) and a bronze for eliminated Arlen López (80 kilograms).
The delegation still has clear chances for gold in Greco-Roman wrestling, with the presence of legend Mijaín López (130 kg), Luis Orta (67 kg), and Gabriel Rosillo (97 kg). Also, Yarisleidis Cirilo should not be overlooked in sprint canoeing.
FAQs on Cuban Athletes at Paris 2024 Olympics
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the performance of Cuban athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Who eliminated Noslen Díaz and Jorge Luis Alayo from the beach volleyball competition?
Noslen Díaz and Jorge Luis Alayo were eliminated by the Swedish duo David Ahman and Jonatan Hellvig.
How did Cuba's beach volleyball team perform in the group stage?
The Cuban beach volleyball team was undefeated in the group stage before their elimination.
What medals has Cuba secured so far at Paris 2024?
Cuba has secured a silver medal by Erislandy Álvarez and a bronze medal by Arlen López, both in boxing.
Which Cuban athletes are still in contention for medals?
Cuban athletes still in contention for medals include Mijaín López, Luis Orta, and Gabriel Rosillo in Greco-Roman wrestling, as well as Yarisleidis Cirilo in sprint canoeing.