New Delhi:
It's not just Commonwealth Games Federation boss Michael Fennell, the world media too has heaped praises on India and the people of Delhi for delivering great Games.
A day after a dazzling closing ceremony, an Australian daily, The Age, published a candid article saying the people of Delhi have worked day and night to turn shambles into success. Australia is one of the major Commonwealth countries.
The Age columnist Peter Hanlon writes, "Here's something you probably haven't read outside India this past fortnight: the people of Delhi have done a terrific job, and are entitled to be proud of their Games. Faced with greater hurdles than Sally Pearson will ever clear, they've pulled it off admirably and deserve better than the carping, nit-picking and borderline racism that has masqueraded as informed coverage of the Games."
The BBC, meanwhile, termed the closing ceremony and the entire Games as India's Pride. One of its headlines read 'Commonwealth Games: India' Pride.'
A British newspaper, The Independent, termed Delhi 2010 as the best Commonwealth Games ever.
In its article, 'Commonwealth Games 2010 finish with INDIA triumphant', The Guardian said "'The closing ceremony, featuring the pipe and drum bands, was coloured with a strong note of nationalism. It was very different in tone from the opening one, which had emphasised on religious and artistic heritage."
The Games on Thursday got the ultimate pat on the back from the CGF chief Fennell, who declared the mega-event as "truly exceptional".
Delivering his address during the spectacular closing ceremony, Fennell said, "Today, we bring down curtains on 19th CWG Delhi. Delhi, you have delivered a truly exceptional Games.
Fennell added the "successful" hosting of the Games will leave behind a rich legacy for Delhi. (With PTI inputs)