It is mind over metal at the ongoing Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, where never mind the podium, Indians are winning our hearts with their attitude. The big change from yesteryears is not only the medals won in the international competition but the fact that Indian athletes are now not sitting back with any kind of podium finish or a first place. While competing itself is laudable, our athletes are now looking at gold. We have seen statements where our medal winners are happy that they have a podium finish but want the gold.

They want the gold not just in the Commonwealth Games, not in the Asian Games where standards are higher, but the Olympics to be held in Paris in 2024. This shows a heartening hunger and huge ambition. It proves that they are now not willing to settle for anything but the best.