Asian Games conclude in Japan amid attendance and organizational challenges

The curtain came down on the Asian Games on Sunday, with officials hoping the fortnight in Japan would be remembered not for the chaos dogging every step but for the athletic performances that brought more than 150 world, junior and continental records.

In keeping with the overall approach of the Games, the closing ceremony was a strange affair, which felt a little like adults trying to be cool in a room full of teenagers.

The fact it took place in front of rows and rows of empty seats at a venue that even at the height of the athletics competition was nearer to being empty than full did not help.