Gutta Jwala, winner of 10 Senior National doubles titles, is delighted on being nominated for the prestigious Arjuna Award on Friday and feels it is a huge honour and a recognition of her achievements over the years.
In an exclusive chat with ‘The Hindu’, the 27-year-old shuttler from Hyderabad says this is a big motivating factor. “I am always a positive person. I know good things will follow you,” she said to a query.
Jwala formally parted ways with former national champion Chetan Anand (whom she married a few years ago) only last week when a family court gave the necessary orders.
“This Award should be a huge honour and I am happy that my performances and achievements are finally recognised. I never played for any Award. I always enjoyed playing the sport in the best possible manner,” Jwala said.
“Definitely, I will look ahead in the circuit. My dream is to be the World No. 1 in doubles. And I am confident of achieving it one day,” says a confident Jwala. Referring to her combination with Ashwini Ponappa, the Hyderabadi reminded that she is really enjoying every bit of it on court. “It is a wonderful chemistry as we understand each other better,” she added.
“Yes, it was a bit of disappointment that an injury scare to V. Diju marred our mixed doubles partnership just as were peaking at the right time,” Jwala said to a query.
“I dedicate this honour to my family who stood by me in moments of triumph and crisis right through. I look at this also as an acknowledgement of all that I achieved in the sport,” Jwala remarked.
The 2010 Commonwealth Games gold medallist signs off reminding that she has lot to more to contribute as a player before thinking about anything else.