Paes introduces Sindhu to the “Inspiration Icon” award. | Photo Credit: RV Moorthy
Tennis’ stubborn Leanderpaze joined Badminton Ace PV Sindhu on the stage of the 2025 Sportster ACES Awards held at the Taj Mahal Palace on Friday.
“Inspirational Icon” award winner, Sindhu was asked by Paes what India needs to produce more Olympic medalists.
Sindhu, who won two consecutive medals at the Olympic Games, said: “India has a lot of talent. I’m sure there are a lot of young people who are hungry for something to do well. There are a lot of possibilities for badminton sports. India has more Olympic medals coming to us. We are looking. We need patience, hope and belief.”
Peese brought the challenge when she asked Sindhu which of her two Olympic medals was more special. Sindhu, 29, came up with a proper response.
“That’s a tough question. The first medal (Rio silver in 2016) was my first medal. The second medal (Tokyo bronze in 2020) was difficult. In Tokyo, I was semifinals We lost in and had to play a Bronze playoff match. It was much more difficult.
More than Rio, when I reached the final and the medal was guaranteed. In Tokyo it was bronze or nothing,” Sindhu said.
Paes, a bronze medalist at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, nodded in agreement.
Paes attended the gathering by celebrating Sindhu at a recent wedding. “It’s a new phase in my life and I really enjoy it,” Sindhu said.
Published – February 14th, 2025, 10:45pm IST
