Athletes Fight Injuries Amidst Tight Schedules at Paris Olympics

Several top athletes, including Germany's Alexandra Popp and France's Wendie Renard, are battling injuries at the Paris Olympics. Despite new rules allowing teams to call up alternates for injured players, the summer heat and intense competition schedules are taking a toll on the players. Coaches are managing injuries cautiously, knowing player availability is crucial as the tournament progresses.

Several top athletes, including Germany's Alexandra Popp and France's Wendie Renard, are battling injuries at the Paris Olympics. Despite new rules allowing teams to call up alternates for injured players, the summer heat and intense competition schedules are taking a toll on the players.

German striker Alexandra Popp remained hopeful after limping off during Germany's 4-1 loss to the United States, attributing her injury to fatigue. Meanwhile, French captain Wendie Renard is set for an MRI due to a thigh injury sustained in a different match.

In a bid to deal with the tight rosters and rigorous schedules, coaches are treating injuries cautiously. The new rules permit teams to use an alternate with just six hours' notice and then return them to alternate status post-match.

(With inputs from agencies.)