Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indian fencer CA Bhavani Devi, who created history despite her second round exit at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, saying the country is proud of her contribution and termed her as an 'inspiration' for Indian citizens.
Bhavani Devi created history when she entered the Tokyo Olympics 2020. With her entry into the bout, she became the first Indian athlete to compete in a fencing event at Olympics. Bhavani started her campaign with a win by defeating Tunisia's Ben Azizi Nadia to become the first Indian to win the match in fencing at Olympics.
"You gave your best and that is all that counts. Wins and losses are a part of life. India is very proud of your contributions. You are an inspiration for our citizens," PM Modi tweeted.
Meanwhile, after crashing out of Tokyo Olympics in the round of 32, Bhavani Devi has now set her eyes on Paris 2024.
"Big Day. It was Excitement & Emotional. I won the First Match 15/3 against Nadia Azizi and become the First INDIAN Fencing Player to win a Match at Olympic but 2nd Match I lost 7/15 against world top 3 player Manon Brunet. I did my level best but couldn't win. I am sorry," tweeted Bhavani Devi earlier in the day.
"Every end has a beginning, I will continue my practice and definitely work hard to win a medal at the next Olympics in France and make my country proud. I want to thank each one of you who stood by me," she added.