Manasi Joshi wants to make a difference for Indian para-badminton

The Indian para-shuttler spoke about the impact of Gopichand on her game.

Inspired by India's top badminton coach Pullela Gopichand, reigning world para-champion Manasi Joshi aims to create a conducive environment for para-athletes in India after she hangs up her boots.

She shared her vision and future plans while talking to Indian paddler Mudit Dani’s on his online talk show “In the Sportlight.”

Manasi Joshi, who started playing badminton professionally in 2014, has been training under Gopichand for the last two years. She is determined to do her bit in changing the country's perception on being differently abled. She remarked, "Post badminton I want to be a part of a script that changes perception about people with disability in India. I want to make it better for future generations."

"I will definitely see myself involved in sports because of the experience I have gained, I want to utilise it to the fullest to develop and train young athletes. I want people to use the experience that I have gained."

Olympic medal-winning coach Gopichand has groomed and honed her technical and tactical skills. Manasi Joshi believes she is a better player since she started working with the coach.

"He always advises to keep pushing and keep on working. And when you are out for matches or tournaments, it’s the most important advice you get from your coach. Gopi sir pays attention to even minor things and I’m learning technical tricks from the best," stated Manasi Joshi.

The 31-year-old Asian Games bronze medallist feels there has been immense growth over the last few years in para-badminton.

"Since 2015 para-badminton has picked up and even able body badminton people love it and it’s the second most favourite sport in our country. I see people choosing para-badminton as a career option. I see in the next five years, more and more people taking up para-sports. People will pursue it to the highest level," she concluded.