Tamil Nadu girl raises bar, wins gold at World Deaf Youth Badminton Championship

Dream blended into reality for 15-year-old Jerlin Anika after the Madurai girl clinched gold at the 2nd World Deaf Youth Badminton Championship in Taipei, Taiwan. Anika won a total of four medals including the gold, two silvers and a bronze. Currently a tenth standard student in the Ouvaiyar government school in Madurai, Anika always remained committed towards shaping a bright career in badminton. Brimming with pride at their daughter's achievements at the World Deaf Youth Badminton championship, Anika's parents said their daughter's performance is a matter of pride for India and Tamil Nadu.

"In recently held competition in Taipei, she has won a gold medal. This medal is for India. The main reason behind her success is the support extended by her school and the efforts put in by her coach Sarvanan," Anika's father told ANI.

He further added, "She started learning badminton from the age of eight years". Anika's mother reiterated, "I felt very happy when she got the gold medal. It is not only for her but for the country and Tamil Nadu. I cried when I saw India's flag being unfurled at the medal'as ceremony. Now, I urge the government to come forward and help this young sportsperson."