"This loss will stay with me for the next four years" - Krishna Nagar on dismal show at Paris Paralympics, on the road to comeback and more
Indian para-badminton player Krishna Nagar has lived through the extreme highs and lows of an athlete's journey in a span of just four years. The para-shuttler was on top of the world when he won gold at the 2020 Games in Tokyo. However, he was only a shadow of himself at the Paris Paralympics 2024.
Not many expected Krishna to return not just without defending his title but with no medals to show at all. The 25-year-old understands the disappointment of his supporters and is himself dismayed with his performance.
During a conversation with Sportskeeda at a recent felicitation ceremony for India's Paralympians in Delhi, Krishna Nagar said:
"It's been some time now but I've still not been able to overcome what happened in Paris. This will stay with me for the next four years. I have to wait for that next chance. But, there are many other tournaments coming ahead, so I want to prove it to myself."
The Rajasthan-born player was not in the best state physically during the competition. An ankle injury ended up proving to be the final nail in Krishna Nagar's sub-par performance in Paris.
"The ankle injury has been with me for sometime now. Had I not faced such a setback, I feel I would'nt have returned without a medal. It was a mixed emotion as if I continued with the injury, I could've worsened my health even more and miss out on everything that is ahead," he added.
"The reception could be different this time"- Krishna Nagar on the lack of attention after a loss
Krishna Nagar was hailed by one and all after his heroics in Tokyo. However, the recognition of his hard work might not have been the same after a disappointing campaign in Paris this year. Nagar understands the reasoning behind it and is not the one to complain.
"The one who achieves big is always given appreciation and love in all walks of life. When I won in Tokyo, I was received with such warmth. Yes, the reception could be different this time but then it's just what we accept as athletes. That’s why never let complacency set in and that will help you deal better with setbacks," Krishna said in the same interview.
Regardless of his result, the talented para-shuttler is mighty impressed with how India dominated at the Games in Paris.
"We had claimed we'll win at least 25 medals and we did it. That explains what we're capable of. With the young talent of India taking up to para-sports, the writing is on the wall. We will be a force to reckon with at the Paralympics for years to come." he concluded with optimism.
Krishna Nagar might be down but he is not out. His hard work and skill set are a testament to his potential which shall help him bounce back soon.