Dejected Saina admits she made too many errors

 Saina Nehwal regretted the missed opportunities in the final of the World Championships, where she was seeking to become the first Indian to win the title.

Instead, she floundered in the match dominated by defending champion Carolina Marin. The 25-year-old reckoned her loss had more to do with mental aspect than physical. Despite leading 3-1 in head-to head meetings against Marin, Saina found it difficult to match up to her fiery opponent.

“I made too many mistakes in first game. In the second, I had a lead, but points went by very quickly and within no time she was level. I could’ve been more patient during those 4-5 points. I had no problems with fitness. Final is more mental than physical. I made one silly error in the second game during a crucial moment,” Saina said following her second loss to Marin this year.

“In the second game, I was on the slower side. I was trying to make rallies happen but the points went very quickly.”

Saina felt playing in her second Word Championships final gave Marin an edge. “When you have the experience of playing a World Championship final, it’s easier. She played with freedom, not thinking of winning or losing,” she said.

 Marin said she enjoyed winning the title more this time. Last year in Copenhagen, she was a surprise winner as ninth seed. But in the last one year, she has grown in stature and consistency, fetching her the All England title and World No 1 ranking.

The 22-year-old said she loved playing in front of an adoring audience. “I know she (Saina) was more tired than me. I just kept thinking of each point, just wanted to enjoy the final and the crowd,” she said.

“I feel more happy this time compared to last time. This was more difficult. I had a foot injury last month, I thought I wouldn’t play. I started playing two weeks ago, just wanted to enjoy the tournament. I just didn’t want to make mistakes when I was down in the second game. Today I felt I was playing at home.”