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Saina Nehwal became the first Indian to clinch the World Junior badminton Championship. Photo Courtesy: AFP
Saina Nehwal became the first Indian to clinch the World Junior badminton Championship. Photo Courtesy: AFP

Saina sets her eyes on Hong Kong, China Open

Fri-Nov 07, 2008

Hyderabad / Press Trust of India

After winning the Commonwealth Youth Games and World Junior Badminton Championship, ace shuttler Saina Nehwal has set her eyes on the Hong Kong and China Open later this month.

The Beijing Olympics quarter-finalist refrains from making tall claims about her chances in these tournaments, but says she would give her best.

"Next tournament is Hong Kong Open and then China Open which is starting on November 18. Hopefully, I will do well," she said on Friday in Hyderabad.

"I just go for winning. I really don't make statements like I am going to win the tournament. I really know how tough is the competition. I am fit now. I will give my 100 per cent and hope for a good result." Saina feels her defence and backhand stroke have improved over a period of time.

"I am basically an attacking player. I have good smashes. I feel my defence has improved but I need to work on it more. This year I really worked on my defence and backhand stroke. That's why I am able to cover the court nicely and I am able to recover well. That's the best part. A player is never perfect. Next year, I would improve even better," she said.

Saina said she is taking a break in December to take rest and start afresh in January next year.

Saina expressed happiness about her wins in Commonwealth Youth Games and World Junior Badminton Championships.

"I am really happy about it. I never thought I would continue to win such big events. I thank god for all that. Also my coach who really worked hard with me, who has always been very supportive. He has been really pushing me to improve my game. It has been a great year. I have improved a lot. I look forward to some more wins next year," she said.

Saina was speaking on the sidelines of a function organised by the Hyderabad 10K Run Foundation, for which she is the brand ambassador.
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