Jayce
When Pablo Abian faces Vilen Netasingha in Group G of the 2024 Paris Olympics, the contrast in experience will be striking. Abian’s opponent is just 21 years old, while Abian was only five years old when he made his debut at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Similarly, veteran Kevin Cordon will face Lakshya Sen in Group L, showcasing a similar contrast. At the time of Cordon’s first Olympic appearance in Beijing 2008, his Guatemalan opponent was only seven years old.
The 2008 Beijing Olympics Line-Up
Both Abian and Cordon are seasoned Olympians—this will be their fifth appearance at the Olympics, demonstrating their endurance in a sport that demands both physical and mental resilience.
“Of course, I’m proud to be competing in my fifth Olympics,” Cordon said, expressing frustration at missing his chance to defeat Sen in his opening match. “It’s a great honor just to be here.”
What keeps him going?
“My love for badminton is the main reason. I simply enjoy playing. And I love representing my country as a professional athlete.
“Coming back is fantastic—training for four years and being here is a significant achievement, and it’s why I’m so happy and trying to enjoy it.”
Pablo Abian at the 2012 London Olympics
In the previous four Olympics, both Cordon and Abian have been strong competitors. Abian won three out of seven matches; Cordon’s record is even more impressive—he reached the Round of 16 at the 2012 London Olympics (defeating 15th seed Rajiv Ouseph); he missed the 2016 Rio Olympics due to injury but made a remarkable comeback at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he progressed to the bronze medal playoff.
In a press conference just before the Paris Olympics, Abian talked about approaching the Games with a fresh perspective: “Time flies, and fortunately, I’m able to participate again. This will be my fifth Olympics, but I will treat it like it’s my first. I’m highly motivated. We have prepared thoroughly and arrived here in the best condition. Our goal is to advance from the group stage.”
As Pablo Abian 🇪🇸 and Kevin Cordon 🇬🇹 prepare for their record-breaking fifth Olympics at #Paris2024, we #reflect on their memorable matches at the World Championships held at Wembley Arena in London.
Just as Cordon spoke about the importance of daily training, Abian also believes that the key to his longevity in the sport is consistent training.
“Maintaining the desire to train and improve every day and the willingness to enhance oneself through competition is crucial. The Olympics are the ultimate goal for athletes; they provide extra motivation. Facing daily dual training sessions is often the toughest part, followed by the competitions. But the Olympics are above all; they give you extra motivation on your down days.”
