Mumbai: India's star badminton player PV Sindhu made history by winning a bronze medal as she defeated He Bing Jiao of China by 21-13 and 21-15 in the women's singles event in badminton at the Tokyo Olympics. 


World No. 7 woman shuttler, Sindhu defeated Bing Xiao in a 53-minute match at Musahino Forest Sports Plaza. In the semi-finals, Sindhu lost 18-21, 12-21 to Chinese Taipei's Tai Ju Ying however secured the third sport on award podium. 


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She is the second Indian athlete and first female player to win a medal in two consecutive Olympics. Her first came when she lost the finals of the Rio 2016 Olympics to Carolina Marin of Spain. Sindhu had won a silver medal in 2016. 


Sharing her experience and long journey of training for this milestone, Olympic medalist Sindhu in an exclusive conversation with ABP Manjha said that it was not easy as competition and expectations have increased. 


"It is a proud moment for me and the country. It's not easy, competition has increased and so has the expectations. I worked very hard in last 5 Years. Due to Pandemic we had to struggle for practice. Govt of India and Badminton authority supported and helped us." 


Speaking on new format of the event and absence of spectators due to Covid pandemic, Sindhu said, "Yes, definitely, I missed spectators. This time, there were no fans due to the pandemic, but I know virtually they are supporting and blessing me. I am thankful to all of them." 


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Further in her conversation, Sindhu shared her future plans for Paris tournament. She said she will work hard and try best but for now "want to live this moment and celebrate with family." 


The star player also congratulated Indian Women and Men Hockey teams for their journey till now and wished them for the upcoming matches.