Deepika Kumari's Mental Game Transformation Amid Olympic Quest

Indian archer Deepika Kumari discusses her focus on mental conditioning as she prepares for the 2024 Olympics. Reflecting on past challenges, including missing out on a medal in Paris, she emphasizes the importance of psychological strength in sports and highlights her current strategies to enhance performance under pressure.

With the Asian Games on the horizon and Olympic qualifications intensifying, India's recurve ace Deepika Kumari is channeling her focus into mental conditioning. Despite a valiant effort at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she narrowly missed a medal, Kumari is prioritizing her psychological game to bolster her podium dreams.

The veteran archer, who competed in her fourth Olympics, reached the women's individual quarterfinals but was ousted by Korea's Nam Suhyeon. Now, she emphasizes that her primary battle is internal. Speaking at the National Ranking Archery Tournament, she candidly detailed her struggles with self-doubt and the loud 'noise' in her mind.

Kumari's reflections stem from a season of mixed performances, including a commendable silver at the Shanghai World Cup. Now, as the Asian Games loom, she stresses the squad's focus on pressure management. With Olympic rules increasingly stringent, she is harnessing self-talk and mindfulness to counter negativity, positioning herself for future success.

(With inputs from agencies.)