SMASH THAT!

Ace shuttler PV Sindhu talks to Shivpriya Bajpai about the joy of chasing dreams with unfazed dedication, ahead of the Tokyo Olympics 2021

- Shivpriya Bajpai

It’s true—PV Sindhu’s smile is infectious, and her indomitable spirit is sure to rub off on you. After a brief conversation with her, I feel determined to go for a run tomorrow! I extended my best wishes to her on representing India at the Olympics 2021. “Thank you!” she accepts, “I am really excited and looking forward to it. We were prepared for the Olympics last year but it got pushed due to the pandemic.” She’s set and raring to go; the only dampener, she sighs, is that there won’t be much of a crowd for the games. Here’s ELLE India in a breezy chat with India’s favourite name in badminton, PV Sindhu:

ELLE: You are the first female Indian athlete to win an Olympic silver medal in 2016 in Rio and the first Indian to win the World Championship in 2019. How are you handling the pressure for the upcoming games?

PV Sindhu (PVS): I know people have heightened expectations from me now. I am trying to stay focused and concentrate on my game. I am taking one day at a time as it helps me to stay calm and not crumble under pressure.

ELLE: How is the preparation coming along?