Badminton doubles specialist Jwala Gutta says she is focusing on her fitness levels in the run-up to next month’s London Olympics.
“It is an honour to represent India in two events (women’s doubles and mixed doubles) at the Olympics.
“I’m also pleased that there are expectations on me,” the flamboyant shuttler said on the side-lines of a sponsor event.
“I will try my best to come up with a special performance. I don’t take or feel any pressure (because of the expectations). But, let us hope for the best,” Jwala said when asked about her medal prospects.
Referring to other disciplines in which she feels India can look for medals, Jwala said she expected ace shooter Gagan Narang — a fellow Hyderabad resident — to be one of the front-runners.
“Then, you have quite a few boxers, including Mary Kom, who can surprise many,” she added.
“In badminton, Saina (Nehwal) is a big medal prospect. I tell you we are all geared up for the challenges ahead,” said Jwala, who will partner Ashwini Ponnappa in women’s doubles and V. Diju in mixed doubles.
Jwala, however, refused to be drawn into any sort of debate on the controversy in Indian tennis.
“I don’t want to talk about other individuals. Whatever they are saying is their personal opinion. I cannot comment on that,” she said.
“Like for any athlete, I deem it an honour to play in the Olympics.”
