Award will spur me on: Sindhu

Hyderabad sensation P.V. Sindhu is widely acknowledged to be one of the finest Indian players to wield a badminton racquet. And the point was underscored on Sunday when it was announced that she will be given the prestigious Padma Shri award.

The award is the latest feather in the cap for Sindhu, who had enjoyed a magnificent 2014. Apart from a bronze medal each at the Badminton Asia Championships and Commonwealth Games, Sindhu had also won her second consecutive World Championships bronze, becoming the only Indian shuttler to win multiple medals at the Worlds. She also retained her title at the Macau Open Grand Prix.

“I was very happy and proud when I heard I’ll be receiving such a prestigious award,” an elated Sindhu told this newspaper on Sunday.

“It’s a great feeling to be recognised by the Government of India. I feel incredibly humbled to be bestowed with such an honour. I had a very successful year, winning medals at several big tournaments, and this award will spur me to reach greater heights,” said Sindhu.

“I closed 2014 on a high note (with the Macau Open win), and now, the New Year has begun on a high note as well. I wasn’t expecting anything like this. So this was a wonderful surprise,” she added.

Sindhu barely had time to digest the news before she was flooded with congratulatory calls. “It hasn’t sunk in yet, and the phone is already ringing off the hook with congratulatory messages,” she said with a delighted chuckle.

Sindhu’s father Ramana was equally, if not more, ecstatic.

“I’m extremely happy that my daughter has achieved so much at such a young age. This will only inspire her to do better in the future,” Ramana said.