Manika Batra Stuns France's Prithika Pavade to Enter Round of 16 at Paris Olympics

India's Manika Batra advanced to the Round of 16 in Women's singles at the Paris Olympics by defeating France's Prithika Pavade. Batra described the match as her best, especially since Pavade is higher ranked. She previously triumphed against Great Britain's Anna Hursey in the Round of 64.

India's Table Tennis sensation Manika Batra has advanced to the Round of 16 in Women's singles at the Paris Olympics. Batra expressed immense joy after defeating France's Prithika Pavade, calling it her best match yet. 'Playing against a French player in France and winning was amazing,' she said, according to Olympics.com.

Batra dominated her French opponent 4-0 (11-9, 11-6, 11-9, 11-7) in the round of 32. She overcame a two-point deficit to win the first game 11-9 and clinched the second game with a comfortable five-point margin. Despite Pavade's resistance in the third game, Batra emerged victorious 11-9.

Earlier, in the Round of 64, Batra triumphed over Great Britain's Anna Hursey. The 29-year-old showcased remarkable composure, winning with a scoreline of 11-8, 12-10, 11-9, 9-11, 11-5. Although Hursey mounted a strong comeback in the fourth game, Batra's determination in the fifth game secured her victory and a spot in the round of 32.

(With inputs from agencies.)