B. Sai Praneeth said he was immensely pleased to have pulled off a victory under pressure in the 71-minute final against Indonesia’s Jonatan Christie.
“It would have been terrible had I lost after coming so close. If you lose a contest in straight games 21-13 and 21-11, it doesn’t hurt much. But if you put up a fight and go down in a tight match, it hurts. I am glad I held my nerve and won the big points,” the 24-year-old Praneeth told The Hindu.
The Indian, who was trailing 7-2 in the decider, managed to claw back. “It was anybody’s game and I am really happy I won. A victory in a tournament final is always welcome,” he said.
“This is a big victory and it will help improve my world ranking — he is No. 24 now — and will give you confidence ahead of the big events lined up (Indonesian and Australian Open).
“This title is a reminder that my victory in the Singapore Open was no fluke,” he said.
Faster, stronger
“I have been playing well over the last few weeks. There has been an improvement in almost every aspect, especially net-play and defence. I am moving much faster now and much stronger, mentally and physically. I am geared up for the bigger challenges even as I continue to work more on my fitness. I know I have the game and it is only about getting everything right on a given day,” he said.
“Consistency is what I am aiming for. Indian badminton has a bright future in men’s singles given the way we all have been performing at the highest level. We will be a force to reckon with,” said Praneeth.
