In the spotlight of the 2024 Olympics in Paris, a select group of athletes has been navigating the unique challenges of representing their nations alone. Among them is Belizean sprinter Shaun Gill, who has embraced his role as the sole athlete from his country with both pride and humor.

Gill, who has garnered significant attention as Belize's only representative, has joked about needing a security detail due to the overwhelming demand for his autograph from fellow competitors. His enthusiasm and patriotism were on full display as he waved Belize's flag during the opening ceremony, making a lasting impression despite the driving rain.

Belize is one of four nations with only one athlete competing this year, alongside Liechtenstein, Nauru, and Somalia. This distinction brings both honor and pressure, as these athletes carry the hopes of their entire countries. For Gill, the responsibility has been a mixed experience. Although he did not advance to the men’s 100m final, he reflected on the challenges of jet lag and the immense expectations placed upon him.

"Carrying the hopes of a nation is pressurizing," Gill admitted. "When the performance is lacking, I’m like, ‘Man, I hope I didn’t make you all disappointed.’”

Somalian runner Ali Idow Hassan, another solo competitor, faces his own set of challenges. Competing in the men’s 800m, Hassan hopes to advance to the semi-finals and potentially secure a medal for Somalia. Despite the loneliness of being the sole representative from his nation, Hassan has found solace in befriending athletes from other African countries and is hopeful for a brighter future for Somali athletics.

Hassan’s optimism reflects a broader trend among these solo competitors, who have found ways to cope with isolation. Romano Püntener, a mountain-biker from Liechtenstein, also competed alone but relished the opportunity to represent his country. He was even sought out by tennis star Andy Murray for a pin-badge exchange, highlighting the unique experiences that come with being a lone athlete.

The support for these athletes has been both overwhelming and distracting. Püntener, who finished 28th in his debut race, described receiving countless messages of support from Liechtenstein, while Gill struggled with a flood of well-wishes that left his phone frozen.

Despite their individual struggles, these athletes will return to their countries with a sense of accomplishment and hope. Gill plans to focus on training future runners in Belize, while Hassan looks forward to a possible return to Mogadishu and the growth of Somali athletics. Püntener will return to his mountainous home in Liechtenstein, ready to continue his cycling career.

As the Olympics draw to a close, the stories of these solo competitors underscore the spirit of perseverance and the diverse representation that makes the Games a truly global event.