Teenager Nalbantova Eyes Long-Term Career

Jayce September 6, 2024 1 0

Kaloyana Nalbantova’s maturity off the court belies her young age.

On the court, she is equally formidable. The 18-year-old Bulgarian is the youngest badminton player at the Paris 2024 Olympics. She impressed in her first Group A match on Sunday, despite losing 21-15, 21-11 to top seed An Se-young.

In an interview with reporters, Nalbantova balanced the disappointment of the loss with the joy of her Olympic debut: “I’m happy to be at the Olympics now. I’m also glad to have played against An. I enjoyed those moments.”

“The audience was amazing. I’m sure it was my first time performing in front of so many people. It felt great. They encouraged you every time, even when I was at a disadvantage.

“It’s a great honor to represent Bulgaria. Being the youngest player to participate in this major event at just 18 years old is incredible.”

Nalbantova Celebrates Despite Loss to An

The experience of playing against the world champion is invaluable.

“I still need to adapt to playing in windy halls. She did it first and did it best. That’s the difference between me and the world number one,” said Nalbantova, who is competing in her first Olympics after undergoing meniscus surgery in January.

“I hope to compete in at least two more Olympics and be in the top 20 by the next one. My family couldn’t be here, but they’re cheering for me back home. I video-called them and showed them around the Olympic Village. They were very happy. They are proud of me.”

An was complimentary.