Beijing, John Lee laud ‘tenacious’, ‘enterprising’ Hong Kong Olympians as Paris Games close

They also showed the spirit and demeanour of Hong Kong’s young generation, who is striving and chasing dreams in the new era, while writing a new chapter for the city, the office noted.

“The motherland is proud of you. The office extends its heartfelt congratulations,” it said.

It also expressed hope that the athletes would continue upholding the Olympic spirit and Chinese sporting spirit, inspiring all Hongkongers with even better performances to focus efforts and strive for economic and developmental progress.

Siobhan Haughey, 26, clinched bronze in the 100m freestyle final after finishing just 0.17 seconds behind winner Sarah Sjostrom, the world record-holder, who finished in 52.16. Haughey also won another bronze in the 200m freestyle with a time of 1:54.55.

She also made Hong Kong history as the only swimmer to win 100m and 200m freestyle medals in two Olympic Games.

Épéeist Vivian Kong Man-wai, 30, secured a gold, while Cheung Ka-long, 27, made history by winning two back-to-back gold medals in fencing in Paris and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The city leader Lee also expressed “heartfelt congratulations” to the athletes on their historic achievements and gratitude to all sectors for their strong support.

He said the athletes had shown extraordinary capability at the Paris Olympics and achieved historic results.

“Every athlete has given their all and unleashed their full potential. Despite results, all exhibited determination, perseverance and professionalism,” Lee said, adding he was deeply inspired.

He said in the financial year 2024-25, the government’s annual funding for the institute amounted to HK$941.6 million (US$120.7 million), an increase of about 40 per cent from 2019-2020.

He said the estimated expenditure on sports development in 2024-25 would be around HK$7.9 billion, which was more than doubled compared with a decade ago.

He noted rising government sports funding in recent years and confidence in Hong Kong athletes’ future success in major events.

He said several important sports events would take place shortly, including the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games in late August.

“I am confident that various sectors will continue to support Hong Kong athletes to shine in the competitions, demonstrating the indomitable spirit of Hong Kong,” Lee said.