Not thinking of Oly at this time: Jwala
Ace shuttler Jwala Gutta said on Saturday that she is not thinking about playing in the London Games as it would put her under immense pressure, but would like to keep her focus on the immediate tournaments.
“We still have lot of time left before the start for the London Olympics. If I think about the Games now, then it will put me under pressure. Me and Ashwini have enough time left to make it to the mega event,” pointed out Jwala, the chief guest at the KBL.
“I am thinking about only the next tournament,” the Commonwealth Games gold medallist added. Jwala will be flying to Hong Kong next week for competing in the Super Series tournament.Praising the KBL organisers for coming up with an innovative league, Jwala said:”It will help to popularise the sport in the State. KBL is a wonderful opportunity for the youngsters.”
Jwala dismissed suggestions of a starting such a league in Hyderabad as it would be difficult for the top players to find a window. “I think Indian Badminton League could be a success,”Jwala said. The World Championship women’s doubles bronze medallist with Ashwini Ponnappa said she is giving equal importance to mixed doubles with V Diju. “I am equally keen to perform in mixed doubles. Me and Diju did well in the China Open where we beat world no 2. In fact, we are capable of winning a medal (in the mixed category) in London,” a confident Jwala said.
But a busy schedule means the 28-year-old will not be able to make it to the National chamionships in Bangalore next year. “During that time, I will be playing in the Korea Open and Malaysia Open. So, the possibilites of coming to Nationals are slim,” she signed off.
