KUALA LUMPUR – India now boasts another emerging gem in women’s singles badminton as Ashmita Chaliha gradually etches her name in the world badminton arena.
Chaliha, 24, is being recognised as the new face of Indian women’s singles after showcasing remarkable performances in recent tournaments.
Most recently at the Malaysia Masters, Chaliha eliminated the 10th-ranked player in the world, Zhang Beiwen from the United States, who was also the third seed in the tournament, during the second round yesterday.
Her success marks a historic milestone for Indian badminton, as she becomes the third Indian women’s singles player – after Pusarla Sindhu and Saina Nehwal – to advance to the quarter-finals of a BWF Super 500 Championship.
However, Chaliha’s journey in this tournament won’t go any further, as she was halted by Chinese player Zhang Yi Man in the quarter-finals today, losing 21-10, 21-15.
“It wasn’t my best match because I feel I could have performed better if I had minimised mistakes on the court.
“I’ve reached the quarter-finals at the Thailand Masters before, and this is my second quarter-final appearance this year,” said Chaliha.
Chaliha, who idolises three-time Olympic silver medalist, Datuk Lee Chong Wei, shared that she began her badminton career at the age of seven, despite coming from a country that is more passionate about cricket and hockey.
“My father loves playing tennis, so he wanted me to be actively involved in sports activities. However, due to logistical factors, there was only a badminton court near my house, so my father agreed for me to play badminton.”
“But I prefer Chong Wei, in terms of playing style and his defensive approach,” she added.
Chaliha realises that her place in her journey is still far from challenging the world’s top players, but she believes it is not an impossible goal as long as she continues to strive relentlessly.
“Of course, I aspire to make a name for myself and not be compared to any player, especially in India, often associated with Pusarla Sindhu and Saina Nehwal.
“Like other players, I dream of having the opportunity to compete in the Olympics and win medals. I also harbour such dreams, but I don’t want to rush things and try to take it one step at a time.
“In India, there are many players because there are many tournaments. However, when they compete abroad, most can only participate in lower-level tournaments due to budget constraints.
“But I believe India will produce more quality women’s singles players in the future,” she said. – May 24, 2024