Paris Olympics: Manika Batra creates history in table tennis with win over Indian-origin French player

India's table tennis player Manika Batra created history at the ongoing Paris Olympic 2024 as she became the first Indian paddler to reach a single round of 16. She defeated Indian-origin French player Prithika Pavade 11-9 11-6 11-9 11-7 on July 29 (early Tuesday India time).

The win is ever so important as Pavade is ranked 10 places higher than Batra who is world number 28 in rankings. Batra had previously reached R32 in the Tokyo Olympics 2021.

Also Read:Paris Games: Netizens HAIL Manu Bhaker for HISTORIC FEAT after bronze in mixed 10m air pistol event

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“I am happy that I beat a French player in Paris. I defeated a higher-ranked player. I did not think of creating history and making the pre-quarters, there are more rounds, I will take it match by match and give my best as I always do,” Manika told news agency PTI after the win.

When asked about her strategy for the game, Batra revealed that 'breathing exercise during the match' helped her.

"I had planned to play to her forehand as discussed with my coach but I was getting the points on her backhand, so I did not change the tactics. I did play a few shot on her forehand too, I did not want her to think that I am playing only on her backhand. It was a tough match. Staying relaxed helps me both on and off the court. I do breathing exercises that help me during the match. I will give my best whoever I play against in the next round,” she added.

Batra's win coupled with Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh's qualification for the mixed 10m air pistol event bronze medal match was the highlight for India on Monday (Jul 29).

Apart from them, the Indianmen's hockey team salvaged a draw against Argentina, thanks to a thrilling last-minute goal by skipper Harmanpreet Singh.