Sharath Kamal eyes Olympic glory earlier than calling it a day

Image Source : GETTY IMAGES Sharath Kamal
An Olympic medal can be the most effective second of my profession, stated nine-time nationwide champion Sharath Kamal, motivated by his willingness to study and believing there’s at all times scope to go above and past. Earlier this week, each sport level drew a roar of approval from Sharath as he brushed apart World No. 16 Germany’s Patrick Franziska, additionally his former teammate at Borussia Dusseldorf Club within the Bundesliga, to clinch a hard-fought five-setter tie on the WTT Star Contender Doha.
Just like most different modern-day desk tennis gamers, Franziska is supplied with a powerful backhand. Sharath, nevertheless, got here via a thriller match 12-10, 3-11, 11-7, 7-11, 11-9 win over his German pal earlier than dropping in opposition to Dmitrij Ovtcharov within the pre-quarterfinals. 
“The only thing I haven’t won is the Olympics medal. That would be the best moment of my life and career. I’m really looking forward to this year’s Olympic Games in Tokyo,” Sharath advised Indiatvnews.com in an unique dialog.
“Having educated with Franziska up to now, we all know so much about one another’s sport and that is why there’s mutual respect. But I needed to counter his backhand to win. I’d’ve received in opposition to Dima too if my backhand was good in that match. Nonetheless, I used to be actually completely happy to win in opposition to Franziska. 
“The sport has now become more backhand-oriented. When I started, it was all about forehand,” Sharath highlighted, recalling his early days when most coaches would emphasize constructing the sport round forehand and one might get away with a comparatively weak backhand.
You’ve to be passionate, set targets: Sharath Kamal
Image Source : GETTY IMAGESSharath Kamal

A decided Sharath, after a yr of uncertainty, unexpectedness and hardly any match follow, is at the moment eyeing his fourth Olympics. The World Singles Qualification Tournament is about to get underway on Sunday, with 4 Olympic berths up for grabs within the males’s occasion.
Just a couple of steps away from reaching one other milestone in his in depth and illustrious profession, Sharath feels one has to set targets for staying motivated in the long term. Last yr in March, he ended a decade-long await a Pro Tour title as he outclassed prime seed Marcos Freitas to win the Oman Open.
“You’ve to be passionate, set goals to stay motivated. It’s all about winning medals, like in Commonwealth and Asian Games.”
The Padma Shri recipient, like most athletes, was shocked by the COVID-19 disruption, particularly the psychological facet of it. Making probably the most of a foul scenario, Sharath upped his health ranges, slicing weight and including a brand new perspective to the wearying part.
“The COVID-19 part was powerful because the Olympic preparations obtained caught abruptly. You’re in an area the place do not know for what you are coaching for. Along with motivation from coaches, one of many essential issues was the assist that I obtained from my spouse and two children. Being 38, I do know my physique in-and-out as I put in additional hours simply on my health ranges. 
“There’s still room for improvement even after playing at the international level for decades. I’ve been lucky enough to evolve my game. I don’t think I can match with the younger generation if I think there isn’t any need for improvement,” Sharath additional stated.
“End of the day, if I would’ve broken down during the lockdown phase, my career would’ve taken an ugly turn. It’s all about how you utilize the period and keep yourself motivated during such a period.”