Ponappa: 'Asian Games more competitive than Commonwealth Games'

Ponappa had played a crucial role in India winning its first ever gold medal in a team event at the Commonwealth Games early this year.

Ponappa: "At the international level, there are no easy games as every team has quality players."

Ashwini Ponnappa is eyeing a podium finish at the upcoming Asian Games but the ace shuttler conceded that the Continental games are more competitive than the Commonwealth Games with some top badminton nations in the fray.

Ponappa, a Red Bull athlete, had played a crucial role in India winning its first ever gold medal in a team event at the Commonwealth Games early this year.

“At the international level, there are no easy games as every team has quality players but yes, Asian Games are more competitive than the Commonwealth Games as the top-badminton nations like China, Japan, Korea, Indonesia and Thailand are a part of it,” the 28-year-old shuttler, who plays doubles, told PTI.

Asian Games are scheduled to be held in Indonesia from August 18 to September 2 in Jakarta and Palembang.

“It would be a great challenge to compete against these teams as it would test our skills, speed and endurance. We aim to put our best foot forward and look for a podium finish,” Ponappa said.

India steamrollered Sri Lanka 3-0 in both the men’s and women’s sections to win the badminton crown in the 2016 Asian Games, and Ponappa said the team would be hoping to repeat its heroics this year.

“We finished on the podium in the last Asian Games in the women’s team event. The ultimate goal is to get gold for the nation, so most definitely yes - the team is looking for a podium finish at the Asian Games.”

“It would not be easy but we have to train hard and give our 100 per cent on the court if we are to win a medal. It is important to keep the focus intact and not crumble under pressure,” the Olympian added.

Ponappa also informed that she would be taking part in the World Championships.  “The next big tournament would be the world championships. It is going to be a busy schedule but my preparations have been going on and things have worked out well.

"I had a good training block after the Commonwealth Games before taking a tiny break and have some much needed time off before these major events to get fresh and continue training."