When Manika Batra secured the 2018 Commonwealth Games gold in Gold Coast, Australia, she became a trailblazer for Indian women’s table tennis. Over the past six years, many Indian women paddlers have made their mark on the global stage. Now, the 29-year-old Batra believes India stands a good chance of winning a coveted table tennis medal at the Paris Olympics, scheduled from July 26 to August 11.
Manika Batra’s recent success
Batra played a crucial role in the Indian women’s team qualifying for the Paris Olympics, marking a historic first for Indian table tennis. Her recent performances underline her form and determination. She reached the quarter-finals of the WTT Saudi Smash in May by defeating World No. 2 and former world champion Wang Manyu of China and World No. 14 Nina Mittelham of Germany.
“India qualifying for the first time is a huge achievement,” Batra said. “I am really happy with how we are working together at the camp. I think we have a shot at the medal, and we should give our best.”
Batra attributes this growth to the exposure and opportunities provided by the Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) league. UTT enables Indian players to practice and compete against foreign stars, enhancing their skills and confidence.
As Batra prepares for the Paris Olympics alongside her teammates, she reflects on the lessons learned from her Tokyo Olympics experience. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on one match at a time, despite aiming for a medal.
Will Manika Batra carry her supreme form into the ultimate showdown? 👀
We're just four days away from #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/EfAQVWNQwR
— Women’s SportsZone (@WSportsZone) July 22, 2024
The growth of women’s table tennis in India has been remarkable, and Batra is confident that this upward trajectory will continue. “The growth of women’s table tennis in India is really inspiring. I see many of my fellow players performing exceptionally well. Everyone in the team is motivated and training very hard. Women’s table tennis in India will only grow further for sure,” she added.
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