Badminton
Ashwini Ponnappa fit again but coronavirus calls for a delay
She had a string of injuries from the time she played at Rio Olympics in the year 2016.
Indian badminton player Ashwini Ponnappa is ready to get back in action but the current course of lockdown refuses her to do so. She had a string of injuries from the time she played at Rio Olympics in the year 2016.
She has been struggling with a lot of injuries that diminished her chances to qualify for 2020 Tokyo Olympics but this time, when she is fully recovered, she is ready and is in full swing to qualify for Olympics that will happen next year.
While talking to rediff, she said, “I am not nervous. I am looking forward to Olympic qualification tournaments. I believe when you are physically fit, then you are automatically mentally strong too."
“After this forced break, I am enthusiastic to get back to badminton,” she added. She along with her partner N Sikki Reddy sits on 28 in the world ranking while 31st in the mixed doubles category with Satwiksairaj Rankireddy.
Injuries has been quite a bone of contention for the badminton player. Ponnappa along with Jwala Gutta had a successful campaign at 2012 Olympics only to discontinue the campaign and their partnership.
Ponnappa was crippled by injuries and health issues. “After the Rio Olympics, I had dengue and it took me almost one-and-a-half years to get back,” Ashwini Ponnappa said. She added, "Repercussions were a lot. I had a cold or fever. I did not feel fine. It was quite a challenge to get back. Then, last year I had this recurring calf injury [during Syed Modi International."
Now with the Olympic postponement, she has time in her hand and with recovery she can definitely look forward for Olympic qualification.
