PV Sindhu wants to take it one day at a time in Tokyo

India’s medal hopeful PV Sindhu is hoping to add a new set of techniques and skills to her game while participating in the Tokyo Olympics. The 2019 World Champion said a lot of “tricky players” will be there in Tokyo and they will have different styles, hence it is important for her to raise her game with her own tactics. Speaking from Hyderabad in a virtual media interaction, facilitated by the Sports Authority on Thursday, Sindhu also spoke about how the pandemic had affected her preparations, but now she’s eagerly looking forward to the Olympics.

Sindhu further stressed that there are good players left in the badminton circuit for the Olympics despite the absence of Rio 2016 gold medallist Carolina Marin. Speaking about her challengers in Tokyo, she said, “You can’t take it easy. There are a lot of good players in the circuit, from Tai Tzu-Ying to Ratchanok Intanon. It’s unfortunate that Carolina Marin won’t be a part of the Games. But, I feel everybody would give their 100 per cent. The thinking process of every player has changed since Rio.”

The Hyderabadi shuttler informed that she is working to acquire new skills and techniques before heading to the Olympics in Tokyo. “There are a lot of tricky players so we have to look out for them and everyone has different styles,” she added. “I feel I have improved and got a lot of time to focus on my techniques and skills. And you’ll hopefully get to see new techniques and skills from me at the Olympics.”

The Rio 2016 silver medallist had reached the final of the Swiss Open and the semifinal at All England Open in March. But Sindhu feels that she has improved on her game. When asked about her preparations for Tokyo, she said, “For me, it’s always one step at a time. I have to focus and give my best. When I started off this year, it wasn’t too great for me because of the big gap due to lockdown. But I came back and rectified my mistakes.”

“I played in England and improved on my game. Game-wise I feel I have improved. Attack is my strong point but I’m also focusing a lot on defence. I have to be prepared for all strokes. All in all, I’m looking forward to the Olympic Games.”

As part of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports’ Target Olympic Podium Scheme, Sindhu has been given a financial support of Rs 39.5 lakh since 2019 towards participation in international competitions, overseas training, recovery equipment, support staff, out of pocket allowance.