How did Manika Batra perform at the Tokyo Olympics? An in-depth review of the Indian table tennis star's performance at the previous Olympic Games.

Table tennis star Manika Batra’s Olympic Journey

Manika Batra's world ranking position is 24th until May 2024, and she is also known as India's top table tennis player right now. In addition, during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics she played in women’s singles and mixed doubles categories as well. Although her performance in early rounds did not impress much, it was quite an achievement for the Indian Table Tennis game that she participated at all.

Mixed Doubles Challenge

Mixed Doubles Challenge

Batra, alongside Sharath Kamal, faced a tough challenge in the mixed doubles event. Their campaign ended in an early defeat, which set a challenging tone for Batra’s subsequent matches in the women’s singles event.

First Singles Victory

First Singles Victory

Batra registered her first singles victory at the Tokyo Olympics against Tin-Tin Ho. This win boosted her confidence and showcased her skill, setting the stage for her next match against Margaryta Pesotska, whom she also defeated.

The Clash with Sofia Polcanova

The Clash with Sofia Polcanova

In the third round, Batra faced Austria’s Sofia Polcanova. Despite effective backhand exchanges, Batra was outmanoeuvred by Polcanova’s sharp-angled shots. The scores were 11-8, 11-2, 11-5, and 11-7 in favour of Polcanova.

Third Game Struggles

In the third game, Batra attempted a comeback but struggled against Polcanova’s powerful shots. Polcanova maintained her dominance, denying Batra any significant advantage, and clinched the match with consistent performance.

Historic Achievement

Historic Achievement

Batra made history by reaching the third round of the women’s singles event at the Olympics even after she lost her match: thus she is an Indian   who has reached this stage for the first time ever. The feat was indeed a matter of much pride for table tennis in India.

Manika Batra’s Past Achievements

Manika Batra’s Past Achievements

Batra, who calls Delhi home, boasts an impressive medal collection including golds from the 2016 South Asian Games and the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Her path at the Olympics in Tokyo was laden with tribulations but it showed how much she was willing to struggle for what she loved best – that is, this game.