PV Sindhu does not feel any added pressure to lead the Indian badminton contingent at the Tokyo Olympics

Indian ace PV Sindhu is one of the biggest hopes for a medal for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. Just like other athletes, Sindhu is also preparing hard for the upcoming Summer Games as she gears up to lead India’s badminton contingent in Tokyo.

Only four Indian shuttlers have qualified for the Tokyo Olympics including PV Sindhu. Veteran shuttler Saina Nehwal and Kidambi Srikanth have failed to make the cut with the cancellation of the Singapore Open.

“We are in such a situation you never know what’s going to happen and when the tournaments are going to get cancelled or when they are going to happen. If they(Saina and Srikanth) had played in a couple of tournaments, they would have been closer to qualifying. The pandemic has left us with very few choices,” Sindhu said in a virtual press conference held by the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

“Obviously, if they had made it, it would have been good for our Indian contingent. There would have been so many players going for the Olympics. But it’s sad that they did not get selected,” added PV Sindhu.

With Saina missing out, Sindhu does not feel the added pressure on her to deliver at the big stage. The Olympics Silver medalist is mostly focused on performing her best rather than thinking about other factors.

“There is nothing like pressure. Back then in 2016, it was my first time and it was a completely different atmosphere. I did not know how it was going to be. Playing for a second time, expectations and responsibilities are a lot more. I just want to play, go out there and give my 100 percent. I have to focus and give my best ,” said PV Sindhu.

Sindhu is currently training at the Gacchibowli stadium as it allows her the experience of playing in big matches. It also allows her with match-like simulations which helps her assess her game. Sindhu also expressed that training under Park Tae Sang has helped her improve physically and mentally.

“It’s good that I have got so much time, generally we go for tournaments and come back, rectify mistakes and then again go for tournaments. So we don’t have much time to learn new techniques or skills. You are going to take time to learn new techniques. This was a really good time and I have used it. I hope in the Olympics, there will be some new skills,” she concluded.