 |
|
Manika Batra, India's table tennis star, etched her name in the history books by becoming the first Indian to reach the pre-quarterfinals at the Paris Olympics. Her impressive victory over French opponent Prithika Pavade, a local crowd favorite, was a testament to her skill, strategy, and composure under pressure. The match, played on July 29th, saw Batra dominate the encounter, winning in straight games with scores of 11-9, 11-6, 11-9, and 11-7.
Batra's triumph was particularly significant considering she was facing an opponent ranked 10 places higher than her. Prithika, with Indian roots and born in a Paris suburb, was enjoying a successful run leading into the Olympics, having reached her first WTT final in June and holding an impressive 18th ranking in the world. Despite the crowd's support for the local player, Batra remained focused, employing a strategic game plan that neutralized Prithika's strengths.
Batra's coach had devised a strategy that targeted Prithika's forehand. However, Batra observed that Prithika struggled on her backhand during the match and astutely adjusted her strategy to exploit this weakness. This tactical flexibility, coupled with her deceptive and swift play, prevented Prithika from gaining any momentum throughout the match. Batra's calmness and controlled breathing exercises helped her stay composed and focused under pressure, ultimately leading to her historic victory.
Following the match, Batra expressed her joy at defeating a higher-ranked player on French soil. She emphasized that she was focused on each round and taking the competition one match at a time. Her dedication and commitment to her game are evident in her approach, as she strives to perform at her best in every match. Batra's accomplishment is a significant moment for Indian table tennis, showcasing the potential of the sport in the country and inspiring aspiring players to pursue their dreams.
Source: Manika Batra rewrites history books following pre-quarter qualification at Paris Olympics