For Parupalli Kashyap, the renowned badminton champion, his day starts at six in the morning, followed by rigorous training and tournament preparations. . The Arjuna Award recipient of 2012 and husband of ace shuttler Saina Nehwal, opines that Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal are his inspiration and an athlete can learn so many things from these legends. On a peaceful evening, he chats exclusively with TMM about how his hobby became the passion for life, battle with asthma and who could be his ideal choice to play the title role in his biopic. Excerpts from an interview:
How has life changed post marriage?
It’s probably the same, now I am enjoying the family life as well. I am occupied with my game but all this balancing is truly joyous and wonderful.
Parupalli Kashyap, You started playing badminton as a hobby and soon it became a passion, how would you review all these years?
I feel very lucky to play this sport since I was a child. I consider myself fortunate that have met the right set of people in my career who guided me and have the same passion for badminton as I do.
Parupalli Kashyap, You didn’t let asthma come in your way to play badminton!
It is a tough thing, but I dealt with it. I can do whatever I can, to play the sport which I love. I always listen to my doctors and take precautions. With the help of proper medication and treatment, my condition started to improve, and I didn’t let it affect my performance ever.
One memorable moment in your career that is close to your heart.
I would say one of my biggest achievements was Common Wealth Games 2014 in Emirates Arena, Glasgow, Scotland, where I won a historic Gold medal for India.
How long do you train every day?
I train for four to six hours a day. My workout consists of cardio and weight training.
Bollywood actress Parineeti Chopra would be playing your wife Saina Nehwal in a biopic. If a film is made on you, which actor you think should play the title role?
If at all something like that happens, I would love to play the character myself.
What was Saina’s first impression about you?
I remember it was long back in the summer camp in Hyderabad, we were training. She used to train and approach the sport like how I did, and we connected like that. When you talk about my impression on her, I think it was pretty much the same.
As a sports person, what is the one thing that drives you every day?
The goal which you set for yourself and the willingness to achieve it, is the only thing that drives me throughout. My next goal will be being in the top 20 world’s best badminton players by the end of this year.
A mantra that your coach P. Gopichand has taught you and you always remember.
Just treat your victories and your losses in the same way and stay grounded.
Apart from badminton which sports you like to play?
I am a great football fan, I love watching football too.
One advice you would like to give to youngsters who want to make a career in badminton?
I believe those who want to pursue the sport should be passionate and have to feel the game. The best thing would be to work hard and always listen to your coach.
The post Bedazzle Athlete – Parupalli Kashyap appeared first on TMM.