New Delhi: Manika Batra’s extraordinary journey smash The game is at jeddah In the women’s singles quarterfinals, it came to a bittersweet ending.
The Japanese team eventually defeated her by 1-4 regardless of how hard she worked. Hayata Hinawhich marked the end of her historic career as the first Indian woman pingpong Players make it to the final eight stages of the Elite Tournament WTT.
Batra’s campaign was highlighted by her stunning win over world No.2 Wang Manyu In the second round Nina Mittelham lost badly in a matchHe ranked fourteenth in the world. Thereafter, she continued with her impressive performance taking only 22 minutes to defeat Mittelham and show that she has skills on table.
However, her momentum was halted by a strong challenge from world number five Hina Hayata. Although Batra fought hard but could not reach his goal and he was defeated by scores 11-7 6-11 4-11 11-13 2-11
Through these obstacles and high expectations, Batra journey mirrors strength and skill of a player who sailed through until reaching quarterfinals; despite losing, that has been an inspiration to both Indian table tennis community and global fans.
“After defeating Wang Manyu today I have played my best game after defeating Mittelham yesterday and I am very proud of myself,” said the 28-year-old Batra. That game was very special to me. It’s important, I’m happy and excited so I have to stay calm for this game.
“All things are going well here. Everything inside my room, everything during training sessions, everything in matches –so I think I love this country! This is my first quarter in a Grand Slam One final so I’m really grateful to everyone who was there cheering and also my practice partners in India who coached me and my coach.
At 39th Batra will be among the top 25 after an unforgettable week.
Batra shocked China’s Wang An by defeating Romania’s Andrea Dragman in the first round of their Grand Slam match on Monday for her maiden win in a Grand Slam tournament ever.
