The Internet is filled with legions of proselytisers praising the benefits of positive thinking; secrets of Marcus Aurelius’ life are distilled into 30-second reels for quick consumption. However, the narrow defeats and six fourth-placed rankings across disciplines at the recent 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris are a reminder that it takes more than just a positive mindset to reach the podium. While no one can point a finger at Lakshya Sen or Mirabai Chanu, for lacking mental fortitude, there is a collective search for that missing element that could have helped them win a medal.

Blend of training and focus

Former India shuttler, Jishnu Sanyal, shares, “Sport is 70 to 80 per cent mental. There are only so many strategies and variations any player or team has. The game’s rules are the same for everyone. The difference lies in the mind.”