Achievements at CWG have changed my mindset, says Manika Batra
Top-ranked Indian female table-tennis player, Manika Batra has stated that her achievements at the CWG have changed her mindset and she can win every game ahead if she works hard and focuses well. She also spoke about the responsibility and expectations that have grown after her achievements.
Batra first came to limelight by winning three gold medals at the 2016 South Asian games winning women's doubles, mixed doubles, and the women's team event before she led the Indian women's team to a gold medal win in the final against four-time gold medalists and defending champions Singapore at CWG 2018 in Gold coast, a few months back. The 23-year-old created record by becoming the first Indian woman to win a singles title at the Commonwealth Games.Â
In contrast, India
Batra has stated that her achievements at the CWG have changed her mindset and stated that if she would work harder and keep her focus, she could go on to win every game that she would be playing. In her recent chat with the TOI, Batra spoke a lot about her preparations and mindset for the Asian games 2018.
“When you work hard you get positive results, it obviously develops confidence. My achievements at the CWG have changed my mindset that if we work hard and be focused, then we can perform well in every game. I am thankful to my coach, Sandeep Sir, Table-tennis federation of India and my employer Indian oil corporation limited for motivating me at every level,” Batra said.
She also spoke about her ranking and how it has boosted her confidence, but at the same time made her realize her responsibility to maintain that and try to become a better player.Â
“Along with winning tournaments, world ranking is also important. Improvement in my world ranking hasn't only developed my confidence but motivated me to work harder and perform well in the coming tournaments. My immediate target is to break into top 40 and improve step by step,” Batra said.Â
Batra mentioned the stature of table tennis in India after the success at CWG. She also stated that people have started to recognize paddlers in the country, which has been a good change in terms of mindset and perception.
“A big change has come after CWG, people have started to recognize our players, table tennis as a sport in India. More young kids have started playing table tennis and now parents can see a future in table tennis too. Even corporates are supporting athletes” Batra said.
Speaking about the preparations for the Asian games, Batra said, "After the CWG we didn't take any breaks and we have been preparing hard continuously in the country and abroad for Asian games. Currently, we are training in China giving final shape to our preparation. We will give our best."
Batra has a gut feeling that India will perform exceptionally well at the Asian games and yield a number of medals for the country.
“We will definitely perform well and live up to the expectations of our coaches, families, federations and all who are supporting us continuously” Batra concluded.
