Manika Batra Makes History at Paris 2024 Olympics: First Indian Table Tennis Player to Reach Singles Pre-Quarterfinals
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/30th July 2024
Manika Batra has etched her name in the annals of Indian sports history by becoming the first Indian table tennis player to advance to the singles pre-quarterfinals at the Olympic Games. In a stunning display of skill and composure, Batra defeated world number 18 and local favorite Prithika Pavade with a commanding 4-0 victory. Batra’s triumph was marked by scores of 11-9, 11-6, 11-9, and 11-7, surpassing her previous performance at the Tokyo Olympics, where she had reached the round of 32.
Expressing her excitement in an interview with PTI, Batra shared her exhilaration about overcoming a French competitor in Paris and defeating a higher-ranked player. “My goal was not merely to reach the pre-quarters; I focused on one match at a time, aiming to give my best,” she said. Batra’s meticulous approach and strategic play led her to surpass expectations and make a significant impact on the international stage.
Batra’s game plan against Pavade was a masterclass in adaptability. Initially, she intended to target Pavade’s forehand as per her coach’s strategy. However, upon realizing that she was gaining more points by targeting Pavade’s backhand, Batra adjusted her approach accordingly. “I noticed that focusing on her backhand was yielding better results, so I decided to stick with that plan while occasionally mixing in shots to her forehand to keep her guessing,” Batra explained.
Prithika Pavade, born in a Paris suburb to parents from Puducherry, had entered the Olympics with a perfect record. At just 19 years old, Pavade had competed in the Tokyo Olympics but was eliminated in the first round. Since then, she has shown remarkable progress, climbing to 18th in the world rankings. Despite her recent rise, Pavade struggled against Batra’s well-executed strategy.
In the opening game, Batra managed to edge out Pavade to secure a 1-0 lead. The second game saw Batra extend her dominance with a 3-1 lead and eventually win 11-6. Batra’s consistent and aggressive play continued into the third game, where she built a 5-1 lead and won 11-9. The final game was marked by Batra’s impressive forehand shots, allowing her to establish a 10-5 lead and clinch the match on her third match point.
Batra acknowledged the difficulty of the match but emphasized how crucial breathing exercises were in maintaining her composure throughout the game. Her preparation and mental fortitude were key factors in her success, demonstrating the high level of professionalism and focus she brings to the sport.
Manika Batra’s historic achievement at the Paris 2024 Olympics not only highlights her exceptional talent but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes. Her journey from the Tokyo Olympics to making history in Paris is a testament to her dedication and skill, solidifying her position as a trailblazer in Indian table tennis.
