Russia media was sharply critical of Simone Biles’ decision to withdraw from two events in Tokyo – in marked contrast to opinion in large parts of western media – saying she had ‘let her team down’.

Australian commentators have awkwardly tried to bridge the language barrier at the Tokyo Olympics by taking the time to explain the origins of ‘g’day’ to a Japanese colleague.

Helen Glover could not make it a third Olympic gold medal in as many Games after finishing fourth in the women’s coxless pairs final with Polly Swann.

Medal-hungry Emma McKeon has punched out a sizzling personal best to underline her favouritism for the 100-metres freestyle at the Tokyo Olympics.

Simone Biles has withdrawn from the individual all-around competition at the Tokyo Olympics ‘to focus on her mental health’, USA Gymnastics has announced.

The Team GB quartet of Sholto Carnegie, Oliver Cook, Rory Gibbs and Matthew Rossiter were among the favourites as Team GB looked to get gold in the event again for the sixth games running.

DAVID COVERDALE IN TOKYO: Tom Dean became the first British man in 113 years to win two swimming golds at the same Olympics after Team GB’s 4x200metres freestyle relay win.

HENRY DEEDES: Just days ago, the Tokyo Olympics looked set to be the most underwhelming Games in history

Two-time Olympic medallist Jessica Fox has finished with a bronze medal in the K1 canoe slalom final in Tokyo. Germany’s Ricarda Funk snared the gold medal.

The 30-year-old took gold with her final lift of the day, obliterating her personal best to see off world record holder Liao Qiuyun of China and she was unable to hold back the tears at the end.