With a string of morale boosting wins coming her way this year, upcoming Indian shuttler P.V. Sindhu says she has become confident about taking on the more seasoned players on the international circuit next year.
“The competition is tough at the international level. There are very good players. There is nothing like a psychological barrier for me (for taking on top players from China and others). As you play, you gain confidence and improve,” Sindhu, who won the Macau Open this week, told PTI in Hyderabad on Thursday.
Ahead of the Macau Open, she won her maiden Grand Prix Gold title — the Malaysian Open — and also became the first medallist in women’s singles at the World Championships this year.
She had spearheaded the Awadhe Warriors in inaugural Indian Badminton League (IBL) this year.
“This year was good. It (the wins) gave me confidence. I would like to continue my good form for future as well,” she said.
Replying to a query, she said she was disappointed over a lean phase she passed through after the World Championship and IBL.
“I lost some matches that time. I felt bad, but I felt it is part of the game. I kept on practising to do well,” Sindhu said.
As several prestigious tournaments including the Super Series, the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games lined up for next year, the 18-year-old shuttler from Andhra Pradesh would like to give her best and is counting on the support of her mentor and national coach Pullela Gopichand in the endeavour.
“It is going to be hectic. The Senior Nationals are also there (later this month). There are many important tournaments. Gopi sir would guide me. I want to be fit and practice well,” she said.
