On her 26th birthday, Indian table tennis star Sreeja Akula etched her name in the annals of sporting achievement. With a hard-fought 4-2 victory over Singapore’s Jian Zeng, Sreeja advanced to the pre-quarterfinals of the women’s singles event at the Paris Olympics.
A historic birthday gift for Sreeja Akula
Sreeja gifted herself a special birthday present by staging a phenomenal comeback against Jian Zeng. The match swung back and forth, with scores of 9-11, 12-10, 11-4, 11-5, 10-12, 12-10 in favour of the Indian star. Her tenacity and skill shone brightly on this momentous day.
By reaching the pre-quarters, Sreeja became only the second Indian ever to achieve this milestone in Olympic table tennis. She joined fellow Indian player Manika Batra, who had accomplished the same feat just days earlier. Together, they elevated India’s presence in the sport on the global stage.
After a slow start in Game 1, Sreeja’s attacking intent emerged. In Game 2, she consistently troubled her opponent with a confident approach, winning it by 12-10. But it was in Games 3 and 4 that she truly asserted her dominance. With a fiery spirit, she secured commanding victories of 11-4 and 11-5, leaving no doubt about her prowess.
HISTORY CREATED BY SREEJA AKULA🤩
Second Indian Table Tennis player to reach Pre Quaterfinals of Olympic ever….!!!!! 🇮🇳♥️pic.twitter.com/tNIucgzQZ7
— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) July 31, 2024
Sreeja’s journey continues as she faces the formidable World No. 1, Sun Yingsha, in the Round of 16. Her remarkable run adds to India’s Olympic table tennis legacy, and fans eagerly await her next battle.
Sreeja Akula’s birthday triumph exemplifies determination, skill, and the spirit of competition. As she steps onto the Olympic stage, she carries the hopes of a nation and the pride of a remarkable achievement.
