Ukraine's first medal of the 2024 Olympics belongs to women's fencer Olga Kharlan, who dedicated the bronze medal to her country amid its ongoing war with Russia. The conflict almost cost Kharlan a chance to compete in the Paris Olympics, but she was granted a 'unique exception'.
Key Points
Kharlan won the women's saber fencing bronze medal
Ukraine has the smallest group of athletes in its history due to casualties in the war
Conflict between Russia and Ukraine affected Kharlan's qualification for the Olympics
Russian athletes cannot represent their nation's flag in Paris
Pros
Olga Kharlan's dedication of the medal to her country
Highlighting the impact of war on Ukraine's participation in the Olympics