Will live up to expectations: Sindhu

Hyderabad: Rio Olympics silver medalist PV Sindhu, who returned home to a rousing reception on MOnday said that she believed in herself and did not think of medals. She believes the hardwork put in during the last two months and many sacrifices she, her parents and coach Pullela Gopichand made paid off.

“It was my first Olympics. I was very excited. My aim was to play well and give my 100 percent. I never thought of a medal. We took it match by match and strategised accordingly,” Sindhu told reporters at Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy (PGBA). “When I went to Rio de Janiero, I did not think that I would play in the finals but then I believed in myself," she added.

She speaking after participating in a victory rally from the airport to Gachibowli Stadium and the civic reception there, The 21-year-old said that she was happy that her dream of winning an Olympic medal came true on her debut. "I feel proud I have done this and won laurels for the country. It's a great feeling. Responsiblities will always be high. Definitely I will keep up and move forward," said the Hyderabadi when asked about her feeling since overtaking Saina Nehwal as India's leading woman shuttler.

She, however, praised Saina, saying she won many tournaments and has done a really great job. When asked how she feels about people seeing her as a new role-model and the tagline 'Sindhuism' being used to describe her aggressive game, Sindhu said it was a very different feeling. "I did not have a telephone when I was there. Later, I was told about this fever. The feeling is different. All I would say is that hard work is the key for success in any sphere of life."

Sindhu, the two-time bronze medallist at World Championship, plans to bring more laurels to the country. She gave credit to her parents as well. "I am really thankful to my parents. They made many sacrifices to ensure that I pursued my dreams. I am here because of them," she said. About her coach Pullela Gopichand, she said she was lucky to have him as the coach.

“The last two months we really worked very hard. There were changes in the game and that helped me lot,” she said when asked about the aggression she showed on the courts. Earlier, after the three-hour travel atop an open-top double-decker bus, and the welcome she received from well-wishers and children at the GMC Balayogi Stadium, she said she was thrilled beyond words. ‘All I can say is that I am amazed at the huge turnout. I am sure that suport will bolster my confidence levels as I venture into newer vistas in the days ahead.’