Sindhu credits sacrifices, god's will for Olympic silver

Overwhelmed by the warm reception that greeted her for the historic silver-winning Olympic campaign, ace Indian shuttler P V Sindhu today said it was a combination of her own sacrifices and god's will that propelled her to the podium in the Rio Games.
Sindhu became the first Indian woman athlete to grab an Olympic silver in the just-concluded Games when she lost a close final clash against World No.1 Carolina Marin of Spain.
The 21-year-old was accorded a warm reception on her return to the country.
"I never expected this kind of reception (on their arrival here from Rio). People right from children came and congratulated me. I am very thankful and happy. First thing is God's grace which is very important," Sindhu said.

Echoing her sentiments, national coach Pullela Gopichand said, "For all our efforts I would really say God has been very kind and that's very very important. A small cold and cough can actually stop you from going where you are."
"All we can do is give in our best efforts and God willing we can win and that's how I would look at the entire story," he said.

Sindhu said she is lucky to have Gopichand as her mentor.
"Hard work is the key for success. Parents' support is most important. I am thankful to my parents, they have done many sacrifices. I am lucky to have a coach like Gopi Sir. If this kind of motivation is there I feel definitely many of the kids will come up with hard work," she said.

Sindhu said she never thought of winning a medal, but focussed on one game at a time, giving her 100 per cent.
"Before going to Olympics I just believed in myself and gave my 100 per cent in every match", she said.
"Today, I feel very proud that I have done well and brought laurels to the country. So, it is a great feeling...Responsibilities are always high...Definitely I will keep up that and perform well," she said.
"Saina (Nehwal) has also performed really well and has won many tournaments and done a great job", Sindhu added when asked about Saina's injury-forced early ouster from the Games.