Tokyo Olympics: Even though I was leading, I did not relax, says Sindhu

Tokyo [Japan], August 1 : Having become the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medals, shuttler PV Sindhu has said she has reaped the reward of years of hard work. Speaking after winning the bronze medal match against He Bing Jao, Sindhu said she had to close her emotions for this game.

"It makes me feel really happy because I've worked hard for so many years. I had a lot of emotions going through me -- should I be happy that I won bronze or sad that I lost the opportunity to play in the final? But overall, I had to close off my emotions for this one match and give it my best, my all and think about the emotions. I'm really happy and I think I've done really well. It's a proud moment getting a medal for my country," she said as per Badminton World Federation (BWF).

Taking the lead is very important in crucial games like these and asked how that worked as she had the lead on Sunday as well, Sindhu said: "It was a fresh game altogether, we both had losses yesterday and came back. For us, it was very important in getting a medal for the country and at the Olympics. It's not easy. It's a big thing. There were really long rallies but I had to be patient and calm. Even though I was leading, I did not relax."

Asked how she would be celebrating the win, she said: "I'm on cloud nine. I'm going to enjoy this moment. My family has worked hard for me and put in a lot of effort so I'm very thankful. And my sponsors have given me their best so I'd like to thank them and enjoy the moment. A lot of Indian fans showed me their love and support and I'm very thankful to each and everyone of them. Definitely lots of love and support and kisses."

Sindhu also said that the focus will now move to the the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. "Definitely yes, Definitely," she said.