Indian badminton star Lakshya Sen has opened up about his bronze medal win at the Paris 2024 Olympics, admitting that while he is proud of his achievement, the colour of the medal could have been better. The 22-year-old from Almora secured India's second badminton medal at the Games after defeating Malaysia's Lee Zii Jia in a thrilling three-game contest.
Mixed Emotions After Bronze
In an exclusive interview, Sen reflected on his performance, stating, "Of course, I am happy to win an Olympic medal for my country. But as an athlete, you always aim for the top. The colour could have been better, but I will take this as a learning experience and come back stronger." The shuttler's candid admission highlights the competitive spirit that drives elite athletes.
The Road to Bronze
Sen's journey to the podium was not easy. He faced tough opponents throughout the tournament, including a semifinal loss to Denmark's Viktor Axelsen. However, he regrouped to beat Lee Zii Jia in the bronze medal match, showcasing his resilience and skill. "The semifinal was disappointing, but I knew I had to focus on the next match. Winning bronze is still a great achievement," he added.
Support from Fans and Family
The young shuttler credited his family and fans for their unwavering support. "My parents have been my biggest supporters. The messages from fans across India have been overwhelming. This medal is for them," Sen said. He also thanked his coaches and the Badminton Association of India for their guidance.
Looking Ahead
With the Paris Olympics behind him, Sen is already setting his sights on future tournaments. "I am going to work on my weaknesses and come back stronger. The goal is to win gold at the next Olympics," he asserted. The Indian badminton star's determination and honesty have won him admirers worldwide.
Sen's bronze medal adds to India's growing tally in badminton, following PV Sindhu's silver and bronze in previous Olympics. The nation celebrates his achievement, even as he aims for higher honours in the years to come.
