Jwala wants to avoid Olympic pressure

Jwala would be partnering Ashwini Ponnappa and V Diju at the Asian Badminton Championships and the Indian Open in the women's and mixed doubles category respectively. They have to secure enough ranking points before the May 3 deadline to earn an Olympic berth and Jwala said she is taking it easy mentally to ensure there is no undue pressure.

"We have created history, so we don't need to worry. I have spoken to both my partners that we shouldn't take pressure. It doesn't matter if we don't qualify. Yes, Olympics is precious but if you keep thinking about Olympics then you will take pressure," said Jwala.

"I have told Ashwini, as she is young, to just go out there and have fun, give your best," she added.

"We have been training with (Syed Mohammed) Arif sir for the last few weeks and he makes us slog like anything. Right now, I'm training for ABC, as this and then India Open is very important tournament for me. He pushes me more on basics, more on-court practice. After India Open, I will train more specifically for Olympics," Jwala explained.

Asked about the tricky draws that await her, Jwala said she is not bothered about that as it is always expected to be tough. MORE PTI ATK PM