The enormity of her achievement has gradually started sinking in but for Saina Nehwal, who is ‘jumping with joy inside’, it still feels like a dream that she stood on podium, receiving an Olympic medal.
The Indian badminton queen, as she is known now in media, returned home to a rousing reception, following her historic feat in London Olympics, where she won a bronze.
“It’s just unbelievable, I am speechless. I am happy that I actually did what I promised and believed in. It is a dream to win gold but I am happy that at least I have a bronze and is the first Indian to win a badminton Olympic medal,” Saina, flanked by her coach Pullela Gpichand and father Harvir, said at a press conference after arriving from London.
Asked how it feels, having an historic Olympic medal around her neck, she said, “From outside, I am normal and Gopi sir is normal but inside I am jumping with joy.”
Saina, the 22-year-old Hyderabadi, said the success story has just started and much more will be achieved in future.
“When I was standing on podium, I started crying, I thought of all the hard work I have put in all these years. It gave me inspiration. It’s just the beginning and will win many more medals,” she said.
Saina also did not forget to mention about the people, who have all contributed in her success story.