14 May,2024 02:09 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Manika Batra (Pic: AFP)
Manika Batra, the eminent figure in women's table tennis, has soared to unprecedented heights, achieving a career apex with her recent triumph at the Saudi Smash.
The culmination of her stellar performance in Jeddah catapulted her to the pinnacle of success, as she etched her name in the annals of Indian sporting history by becoming the first woman paddler from the nation to break into the esteemed top-25 echelon of the global rankings.
At the youthful age of 28, Batra, a recipient of the prestigious Khel Ratna award, exhibited a remarkable ascent in her rankings trajectory. Starting from the 39th position, her meteoric surge of 15 places was testament to her indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication. The resounding echoes of her accomplishments resonated far and wide as she navigated through the labyrinthine challenges of the Saudi Smash, ultimately clinching a berth in the quarterfinals.
Her seminal victory in the tournament reverberated with historic significance, as she vanquished formidable adversaries on her path to glory. Notably, she delivered a stunning upset by triumphing over the illustrious Wang Manyu of China, a multiple-time world champion and Olympic gold medallist, who stood as the second seed. This triumph not only underscored Batra's prowess but also symbolized a watershed moment in Indian women's table tennis, as she blazed a trail by becoming the first from the nation to advance to such a stage in the tournament's history.
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Batra's triumphant journey through the crucible of competition culminated in a substantial accrual of 350 points, a testament to her unparalleled skill and unwavering resolve. Her ascent in the rankings was not merely a numerical milestone but a validation of her relentless pursuit of excellence and a testament to her unyielding commitment to her craft.
In the wake of her historic achievement, Batra took to social media, expressing her elation and gratitude for the timely boost in her rankings. Embracing the momentous occasion, she articulated her aspirations of securing a coveted berth at the forthcoming Paris Olympics, thereby embarking on a quest to etch her name in the pantheon of sporting legends.
"An extreme confidence boost on the road to Paris 2024. Breaking into the Top-25 and achieving the best rank ever achieved by an Indian in women's singles of the ITTF Ranking," wrote Manika.
She also thanked her coach Aman Balgu and sparring partner Kirill Barabanov of Belarus for her success.
"Thank you, everyone, for your blessings and support. Especially my coach @amanbalgu, my sparring partner @kirill_barabanov and my family for the constant support. Onward and upward towards Paris 2024," she added.
