On Australian Open victory
The victory in Australia came at just the right time. I was really looking forward for some change and nothing boosts confidence like winning. I needed a win to keep believing that I am on the right track. It was wonderful to win Australian Open prior to the Olympics. It was very satisfying to beat two world champions and a junior world champion in one tournament.
On coach Vimal Kumar
Vimal Sir’s influence is the biggest change. I really want to thank him for making me believe every day that I am a champion, I can be number one. Vimal Sir is helping me work on my half smashes and get closer to my goals. It’s not easy to play at the highest level. I would like to give my best and like all the players my goal is also to come back with a gold medal.
On Rio Olympics
I take each tournament as it comes. Rio Olympics will also be like any other tournament. My approach to the game is very positive and I would like to keep it like that and focus on my game. I feel that on the day that I am 100 percent fit, I have the potential to defeat anyone. At the end of the day, it’s important that you reach the peak and play your best during that particular week. That’s what will count ultimately and will be the key.
On Olympics journey
Olympics gave me lot of fame, lot of recognition. People got to know who Saina is and that she’s doing really well in badminton. During Beijing Olympics in 2008, I was only 18 years old. Though I lost in the quarter-finals, it gave me a lot of confidence that yes; I can win a medal at the Olympics. During next Olympics Games in London in 2012, I became more mature as a player and came back with a bronze. This time I want to better that record.
On competitors at Rio
I believe every player is there because they have the potential. Each game is going to be tough and each player will be a serious challenger. Carolina Marin, Li Xuerui, Wang Yihan, Ratchanok Intanon, Tai Tzu Ying, Nozomi Okuhara are all very good.
