Indian table tennis player Manika Batra has made a significant mark at the ongoing Paris Olympics by becoming the first Indian to advance to the round of 16 in table tennis. The 29-year-old achieved this milestone after a commanding victory over World No. 18 Preetika Pawade of France. In their round of 32 match on Monday, Batra triumphed with a decisive score of 11-9, 11-6, 11-9, 11-7.
Batra displayed exceptional skill and dominance throughout the match, leaving Pawade with no opportunity to gain momentum. Despite a competitive start from Pawade in the first set, Batra’s performance ensured a flawless 4-0 victory without dropping a set.
Currently ranked 28th in the world, Batra is set to face the eighth seed Miu Hirano of Japan in the pre-quarterfinals.