Manika Batra (Image credit: PTI)
Indian table tennis sensation and Commonwealth Games gold medalist Manika Batra believes that a shift in mindset is required for team dynamics in the upcoming World Championships in London and her road to the Los Angeles Olympics-2028.
On the eve of TOISA-2025 in Lucknow, Batra reveals the grit behind the glamour of her international success.
Excerpts:How different is it to play for the country in Olympics and Asian Games as compared to individual tournaments?
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There is always a clear difference when I am playing for the country at events like the Olympic Games and the Asian Games. In individual tournaments, the focus is more on personal performance, ranking, and consistency. However, in these multi-sport events, every match feels bigger because you are not just representing yourself, but the entire nation.
I personally feel that the pressure is higher, but it is also more meaningful.
It brings a different kind of motivation, where you push yourself harder at every moment.How is your preparation going for the upcoming World Team Championship in London?My preparation for the World Team Table Tennis Championships is going well and is very structured. In team events, the approach is slightly different because it is not only about individual performance, but also about combinations, understanding teammates, and adapting to different situations during matches.
We are focusing a lot on match simulations, fitness, and specific opponent-based strategies. The idea is to be fully prepared as a team and perform consistently.You are called a ‘golden girl’. How do you feel about it?It is always special to receive such recognition, especially after performances at events like the Commonwealth Games. I feel grateful, but at the same time, I do not think too much about such titles. For me, it is more about staying grounded and continuing to work hard.
I see it as a responsibility to maintain a certain level of performance and keep improving.How do you see the upcoming Asian Games?The Asian Games is always a very competitive event, especially in table tennis. Naturally, every athlete wants to improve on their previous results, and I am also aiming for that. However, I prefer to focus on the process rather than thinking too far ahead. If I can execute well, stay mentally strong, and take it match by match, I believe better results will follow.You made it to the Round of 16 in the Paris Olympics, what is your goal for the Los Angeles Olympics?Reaching Round of 16 at the Paris Olympics was an important milestone. It motivated me to aim higher for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. My goal is to go deeper into the tournament and challenge myself against the best players. The focus is on improving all aspects of my game.How is your injury now? How has your rehabilitation journey been so far?The injury happened in June last year, and it was a challenging phase. However, I was fortunate to have a strong core team supporting me throughout.
The rehabilitation process went well, and I was able to stay disciplined and patient.You had to miss the UTT season. How difficult was it mentally to stay away from competitive action?Missing the Ultimate Table Tennis season was a conscious decision rather than a difficult situation. I had important international tournaments lined up immediately after that period, so my focus was on recovery and long-term performance. I was not really away from competition. It was more about prioritizing what was best for my schedule and preparation at that time.
