Friendship first, competition second

Putting it in perspective

Shot putters Gong Lijiao and Valerie Adams have battled it out at major championships for years. China's Gong finally got her hands on Olympic gold in Tokyo, with New Zealand's two-time champion Adams this time having to settle for bronze. After Gong stepped down from the podium, Adams gave the 32-year-old a big hug, and later paid a glowing tribute to her longtime rival. "I have competed against Lijiao at many, many Games, she's a great competitor," said Adams. "I think we are competitors but also friends. I also have a lot of respect for Lijiao, and today she has produced an amazing performance and done China proud."