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The Paris Olympics witnessed a disappointing end to Manika Batra's campaign, with the Indian table tennis star falling to Japanese opponent Miu Hirano in a hard-fought match. Despite her history-making performance just two days prior, Batra couldn't overcome the challenge posed by Hirano, the youngest world champion in 2016, who holds a formidable position in the world rankings at No. 13. Batra's loss highlights the fierce competition at the Games, leaving fans wondering what could have been if she had managed to overcome her own errors and capitalize on opportunities.
The match was a tight contest, with both players exhibiting their skills and determination. Batra started with a service error, setting the tone for a challenging first game. While she recovered briefly, Hirano ultimately won 11-6. The second game showcased a spirited comeback by Batra, who took an early lead with powerful shots. However, Hirano managed to turn the tide and clinch the game 11-9, demonstrating her resilience and tactical acumen. The third game provided a glimmer of hope for Batra, as she fought back to win 14-12 after a grueling deuce. This victory instilled a belief that she could potentially turn the match around.
Unfortunately, the momentum shifted again in the fourth and fifth games, where Batra struggled to maintain her composure and consistency. Despite fighting hard, she lost 8-11 and 11-6, giving Hirano the decisive victory. Batra acknowledged her disappointment after the match, stating that she could have played better. She expressed regret about her initial performance and how she felt pressured to win points, leading to some missed opportunities. Despite the loss, Batra emphasized that she learned valuable lessons from the match, specifically about staying relaxed and strategizing effectively. Her coach Massimo Costantini echoed her sentiment, recognizing the need for improvement but acknowledging the strong performance of the Japanese player. He remains optimistic about Batra's future, aiming for her to climb into the top 10 rankings.
While Batra's journey came to an end, fellow Indian table tennis player Sreeja Akula celebrated her birthday by reaching the pre-quarterfinals. This win marked a positive highlight for the Indian team, with Akula demonstrating her determination and skill in overcoming a tough opponent. She will face off against China's World No. 1 Sun Yingsha in the next round, presenting a significant challenge that will test her mettle further. The Paris Olympics continues to provide thrilling encounters and exciting moments, showcasing the talent and determination of athletes from around the globe. Batra's experience, while bittersweet, serves as a learning opportunity for future competitions, while Akula's success represents a bright spot for the Indian contingent at the Games.
Source: Manika Batra's run comes to an end with loss to Hirano in Paris Olympics