Indian badminton star PV Sindhu has revealed her plans to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, confident in her ability to continue competing at the highest level. Now 29, Sindhu will be 33 by the time of the LA Games, and she believes that staying injury-free and in peak form will keep her in contention for a third Olympic medal.
Aiming for Third Medal: PV Sindhu Olympic ambition
After winning silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics and bronze at Tokyo 2020, Sindhu entered the 2024 Paris Olympics with high hopes. However, her journey ended unexpectedly in the pre-quarterfinals, where she was defeated by China’s He Bing Jiao. Reflecting on her early exit, she expressed her commitment to learn from this setback to PTI: “It does happen at times. I had amazing two Olympics, and in the third one, I couldn’t get a medal. But I think I played well. I learn from my mistakes and come back stronger.”
No Regrets: “It’s Not the End of the World”
Sindhu’s Paris defeat was disheartening, but she has no regrets and remains motivated for future tournaments. “I don’t have any regrets, it’s not just over for me,” she said, explaining that she views each tournament as an opportunity to grow and improve. She added, “If I’m fit, if I’m able to do it, if I’m injury-free, then definitely yes, I will compete at LA.”
Pursuing more Titles
With two Olympic medals already, PV Sindhu wants to add more achievements to her name, not just for personal glory but to inspire future athletes. “There’s always more to strive for. I want to win more titles, stand on more podiums and, ultimately, leave a legacy that inspires the next generation of Indian athletes.” She envisions leaving a legacy that encourages young players to aim high, emphasising that she is “committed to pushing my limits.”
Evolving Training and Coaching
Sindhu’s career has been marked by adaptability, especially in her approach to training. She has made significant changes to her coaching staff in recent years, including working with SAI coach Vidhi Chaudhary and Muhammad Hafiz Hashim before moving to the Padukone-Dravid Badminton Academy.
Currently, she is being coached by Anup Sridhar and former World No. 5 Lee Hyun-il, with whom she has been working on refining her game, focusing on speed and defence. “Sometimes, when you need a change, you need a change,” Sindhu noted, reflecting on her evolving coaching journey. “I hope this time in Japan and China, I do well with their guidance.”
“Just wait for magic to start” – PV Sindhu
Looking ahead to tournaments in Japan and China, PV Sindhu is optimistic about her preparations. “I’m in good shape, physically and mentally. We’ve been working on different aspects, on speed and defence,” she shared, brimming with enthusiasm for what lies ahead. “Just wait for the magic to start,” she added, signalling her readiness for the next phase of her career.
The PV Sindhu Centre for Badminton and Sports Excellence
Sindhu’s ambitions extend beyond personal success as she continues to build her legacy through the ‘PV Sindhu Centre for Badminton and Sports Excellence’ in Visakhapatnam. The centre, expected to complete in the next year and a half, is designed to offer world-class training facilities for young athletes, regardless of their backgrounds. “The vision is to inspire and nurture the next generation of champions,” she said, marking her commitment to developing the sport in India.
PV Sindhu, a name synonymous with badminton excellence, continues to inspire millions with her unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of glory. As she sets her sights on the LA Olympics and beyond, her journey serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for aspiring athletes worldwide.
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