PV Sindhu to grace National Games opening ceremony

Sindhu is on the path to recovery after sustaining an ankle injury during the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. She will participate only in the opening ceremony.

FILE PHOTO: P.V. Sindhu plays a shot against Michelle Li in the women’s singles final at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham on August 8, 2022. | Photo Credit: PTI

HYDERABAD

Double Olympics medallist and former world champion P.V. Sindhu will grace the opening ceremony of the National Games to be held in Gujarat from September 29.

“It is unfortunate that I will not be competing in the Games due to my injury. Had I been fit, I would have definitely represented my State (Telangana),” Sindhu said.

“The National Games is a great opportunity for all the athletes and everyone I have spoken to is excited about it. I am sure the badminton matches will be very exciting.”

Sindhu, who is on the path to recovery after sustaining an ankle injury during the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, is however going to be there for the opening ceremony.

For the record, badminton events start from October 2 in Surat.

“It is important that I take care of myself and focus on the challenges ahead in 2023 (Asian Games) and 2024 (Paris Olympics),” she said.

Sindhu’s father PV Ramana, himself a volleyball international, said it was unfortunate that she could not compete in the National Games.

“She was very keen to compete. Unfortunately, she cannot do so as her next review with the doctors and MRI will be in the first week of October,” he said.

The injury on her left ankle has been described as a stress fracture. The treatment protocol revolves around affording the ankle rest.

“I will be part of her rehab programme. Having been a volleyball player, I know what it is to make heavy landings. I will pass on my experience to Sindhu once she resumes training,” said Ramana.