Earlier this month, HS Prannoy contracted the chikungunya virus and spent five days in the hospital, battling fever and muscle pain. Despite this, he felt relieved to have enough time to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Still dealing with the aftereffects of the infection, Prannoy drew on his physical and mental reserves to defeat Vietnamese stalwart Le Duc Phat in three games, advancing to the quarterfinals alongside compatriot Lakshya Sen.
“These past few weeks have been tough, but I’m happy to be here,” Prannoy said. “If it had happened a week later, I wouldn’t have been here. In a way, I’m lucky to be here, to see so many spectators, and to participate in the competition, so I hope we can go further in the tournament.
“I was in the hospital for five days. The pain was unbearable, and each time chikungunya strikes, it usually lasts for three to four months, which is the hardest part.”
Prannoy has previously dealt with other challenging medical issues, including a difficult-to-diagnose acid reflux problem, so he felt grateful to be able to make it to Paris.
“Whenever it happens, we work hard, and the whole team supports me. Many things are beyond our control.”
Recently, Manasi Girishchandra Joshi has been exuding a sense of tranquility and meditative calm.
After each rally, she retreats backstage, seemingly out of place amid the surrounding bustle. Her movements between points are slow and deliberate, and she no longer celebrates as she once did.
“I meditate every day,” revealed the 2019 SL3 Women’s Singles World Champion and 2024 Four Nations Para-Badminton International winner. “For me, even tossing a coin is a form of meditation. Proper breathing has many benefits and helps you keep a clear mind. It’s about balance, composure, and calmness. These all help my game. Once, I was trailing 8-1, and I took a break to meditate,” she added after defeating Coraline Bergeron 21-13, 21-16 in Group C.
“I just pushed myself, saying ‘one point at a time.’ The second game was very close. But I aimed to get a two to three-point lead and then maintain that advantage to take the lead.”
Meditation is not the only thing that has helped Joshi on and off the court.
“I also keep a journal, which is very helpful. I write everything down. I don’t look back at what I’ve written. Writing is therapeutic. It’s like a release, much like meditation. You can let everything go.”
Joshi is inspired by HS Prannoy and appreciates the breathing techniques he employs in his matches.
“He’s great, and I’ve trained with him. We learn from each other,” she said.
With just over two months until the 2024 Paris Paralympics, Joshi feels her preparations are progressing well.
“The Level 1 competition in Glasgow felt like a test event for Paris. Looking at my group, three of us will be going to Paris. The challenges and mental resilience you need are all present in this competition. If you put me in the Paralympics in two weeks, I’d be physically ready after overcoming some injuries. Mentally, I’m ready now. I’m prepared.”
Joshi describes herself as a “calm person.”
What Others Say:
“After defeating the seeded player in the first match, my confidence soared. Some shots didn’t return as expected, and I started to get nervous, but it’s all part of the learning curve for big events.” — Celine Aurelie Vinot on trying to defeat 2022 SL3 World Champion Oksana Kozyna.
“I played very well. A few months ago, I did well in the Spanish para-badminton event, and my level has been improving ahead of the Paralympics. Playing at home will be special, and I hope to show everyone how great para-badminton is.” — Thomas Jacobs (WH2) preparing for the Summer Paralympics.
“It’s been like riding a roller coaster. I need to keep pushing through, and this is a great example of what I’ll learn from here to prepare for the 2024 Paris Paralympics.” — Krysten Coombs (SH6) on giving it his all to overcome the strong challenge from Charles Noakes 21-15, 8-21, 21-17.
“I dyed my hair this color because I’m aiming for gold at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. I hope it brings me good luck.” — Choi Jung-wan (WH1) hoping his new hairstyle will increase his chances of winning a Paralympic medal.
