“This loss is possibly one of the hardest of my long career” - PV Sindhu disheartened after a Round-of-16 exit in Paris Olympics 2024
Two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu failed to claim a hat-trick of medals after losing in the Round of 16 of the Paris Olympics 2024 on Thursday (August 1).
Sindhu won a silver medal in women’s singles at Rio 2016, followed by a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics to become the first Indian female player to win multiple medals at the Olympics. Despite her below-par performance in the ongoing season, she was labeled as one of the top medal contenders at Paris 2024, given her knack for delivering on big stages.
However, fate had other plans as she bowed out of the competition after losing 21-19, 21-14, to China’s World No. 9 He Bing Jiao. In an Instagram post titled ‘Paris 2024: A Beautiful Journey but a Difficult Loss ❤️’, PV Sindhu expressed her disappointment with an emotional message.
“This loss is possibly one of the hardest of my long career. It will take time to accept, but as life moves forward, I know I will come to terms with it. The journey to Paris 2024 was a battle, marked by two years of injuries and long periods away from the game. Despite these challenges, standing here and representing my wonderful country at a third Olympics makes me feel truly blessed,” wrote PV Sindhu.
“I will continue, albeit after a small break” - PV Sindhu opens up about her future plans
PV Sindhu was further grateful to have represented India for the third time at the Olympics. Although she couldn’t secure a podium finish, she has been an inspiration to many young women in the country. The former world champion thanked her fans for their constant support and encouragement.
“I’m incredibly fortunate to compete at this level and, even more importantly, to inspire a generation. Your messages have been a tremendous source of comfort during this time. My team and I gave everything we had for Paris 2024, leaving it all on the court with no regrets,” she added.
Sindhu also cleared her future plans, claiming that she will continue to play at the highest level but after a small break to recover from injuries and be mentally fresh.
“Regarding my future, I want to be clear: I will continue, albeit after a small break. My body, and more importantly, my mind, need it. However, I plan to carefully evaluate the journey ahead, finding more joy in playing the sport I love so very much ❤️,” Sindhu concluded.