Paris 2024 Olympics: Men’s 7 Review

With Men’s 7s done and dusted and France securing the gold medal, there were several interesting points to take from the competition. Bet Central explores these narratives.

Blitzboks Get A Podium Finish

Owing to an indifferent season on the circuit and a terrible start to the Olympics, no one could have foreseen the Blitzboks finishing 3rd and earning a podium finish with a bronze medal.

The Blitzboks finished 6th on the circuit 12 points off the pace from 5thplace Fiji, which is quite the achievement for a team entering its rebuilding phase.

After losing the semifinals against eventual winners France, the Blitzboks rallied back to win 26-19 against a tough Australia to secure their podium finish. This top 3 finish could catalyze improved performances from a team filled with great talent.

Fiji Loses 1st Game Ever At The Olympics

It is unheard of for Fiji to lose in 7s at the Olympics ever since they were introduced to the games. Their record before they lost to France in the final was played 18, won 18, but they fell to a determined home outfit losing 28-7.

It still is no small feat what they have done over the last few Olympic games as they romped to gold in all the previous ones. They didn’t have their strongest season overall and the finish in silver place is a testament to their elite mentality when it comes to the Olympics.

Aging stars like Jerry Tuwai have likely played their final Olympic games and will rue the missed opportunity to go unbeaten throughout his Olympic career.

Ireland And Argentina Fail To Deliver On Early Promise

Ireland and Argentina were huge favourites going into the Olympics after an outstanding season on the circuit and their form in the seeding opening rounds was promising, but things unraveled for both teams in the quarterfinals.

Argentina lost to a determined French side in their quarterfinal while Ireland fell to the power of the Fiji 7s side by a scoreline of 19-15.
On the day of the finals, the Irish lost the 5th and 6th place playoff against New Zealand to finish just outside the top 5 while Argentina were ranked just behind them in 7th after winning their playoff 19-0 against the USA.

French Victory Sparks Debate

France played the game of their lives to steamroll a tough Fijian side and secure France’s very 1st gold in rugby at the Olympics and while this was historic for the country which has one of the best rugby programs in the world.

It was a certain individual who stole all the headlines with a marvel of a try assist and 2 tries. Antoine Dupont is the superstar of world rugby and his performance in that game sparked debate as to where he stands amongst of greats who have graced a rugby field.

Many think this seals his GOAT status, while others still think he has more to do. The debates have been ferocious, but perhaps everyone should take a step back and appreciate the genius of this otherworldly rugby player.