“I still wanted to be on that podium” - HS Prannoy pens down an emotional message after a Round of 16 exit in Paris Olympics 2024

India’s top-ranked men’s singles shuttler HS Prannoy’s journey at the Paris Olympics 2024 came to an unfortunate end on Thursday, August 1.

Prannoy, the World No. 13, topped the standings in Group K, winning both of his games. Making his debut at the Olympics, he defeated Fabian Roth of Germany in his opening encounter, followed by a win over Le Duc Phat of Vietnam to seal his place in the Round of 16.

Unfortunately for him and the Indian fans, Prannoy was drawn against fellow Indian Lakshya Sen, the World No. 22, who was coming in after an upset win over World No. 3 Jonatan Christie. Prannoy, despite giving his all, lost the Round of 16 in straight games to Lakshya Sen, bringing an end to his Paris Olympics journey.

In a social media post, Prannoy penned down an emotional message after his pre-quarters exit.

“I was not sure what to expect coming into these Olympic Games, with so many uncertainties. But then, that’s how sport works. I still wanted to be on that podium, but sometimes, the journey teaches you more than the destination,” wrote HS Prannoy.

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HS Prannoy’s special shoutout to Lakshya Sen for winning a medal in the Paris Olympics 2024 Badminton

HS Prannoy extended his support and wished luck to Lakshya Sen to win a medal at the Paris Olympics 2024. Sen is only the third Indian to qualify for the quarter-finals in men’s singles.

Prannoy further thanked everyone for backing him throughout and expressed his pride in representing India at the Olympics.

“A special shoutout to Lakshya @senlakshya keep fighting and bring home the medal, bruh! Thank you to everyone for all the support. This journey has been unforgettable. Will always cherish the tag of an Olympian. That was a dream ❤️,” added Prannoy.