3 obstacles in PV Sindhu's path to potential Olympic Gold Medal at Tokyo 2020

Over the past month, badminton fans in India have experienced the highest highs and lowest lows, as PV Sindhu's mixed fortunes have led them on a proverbial roller coaster. From winning her first ever World Championship Gold medal, to losing in the second round of the China Open and the first round of the Korea Open in consecutive weeks, Sindhu's form has been nothing short of erratic.

However, it takes only 2 weeks of consistent badminton to win an Olympic Gold Medal. Or does it? There are hundreds, if not thousands, of intricacies that can play a part in realizing the dreams of millions or shattering them on the grandest stage of sport - The Olympics!

Here are 3 of the most prominent hurdles that can stop Sindhu in her quest for the elusive Olympic Gold Medal:

#3 The Exit of Coach Kim Ji Hyun

One of the primary reasons for P V Sindhu's sudden dip in form is the departure of her talismanic coach from South Korea, Kim Ji Hyun. Her influence on Sindhu's game was more than evident at the World Championships. Not only did she encourage the Indian to unleash her attacking game, but not once did she doubt Sindhu's ability to be the best in the world.

It was unfortunate for coach Kim Ji Hyun to learn that her husband, Ritchie Marr, had suffered a neuro stroke. On receiving the news, she flew to New Zealand where her husband resides to nurse him back to health. While we wish her husband a quick recovery, coach Kim Ji Hyun will be desperately missed by India's most promising hope for a gold medal at the Olympics in Tokyo.

Often times, in individual sports, it isn't the tactical acumen of a coach that makes a big difference. Belief, confidence and heart play a vital role in distinguishing the best from the very best!

Haven't we seen that and much more in Carolina Marin?

Get the full Tokyo Olympics 2020 medal tally

#2 The Return of Carolina Marin

Marin won the China Open on her return from injury

One week after her knee surgery, videos surfaced of Carolina Marin practicing her strokes on court while sitting on a chair. Such is the Spaniard's dedication and determination to retain her Gold medal at the Olympics next year.

Not surprisingly, just last week, Marin returned in fine fashion from a career threatening knee injury to win the Super Series 1000 title in China.

With Marin's unmatched resolve and her better head-to-head record (8 wins and 5 losses) against Sindhu, the Indian will face an uphill battle if drawn against the Spaniard in Tokyo next year. It will be interesting to observe the changes that Sindhu incorporates into her game to overcome Marin's unorthodox attack.

#1 Elevated Competition in Women's Singles

PV Sindhu (left) and Tai Tzu Ying (right)

Women's Singles has never been more entertaining in years. With the likes of Taiwanese sensation Tai Tzu Ying, Japan's wonder Akane Yamaguchi, Thailand's superstar Ratchanok Intanon, China's gem Chen Yufei and even America's rising talent Beiwen Zhang - who beat Sindhu a couple of days ago - the division is packed with flair and flamboyance like never before!

Fortunately, PV Sindhu is among the cream of the crop! But badminton is an unpredictable sport. Momentum plays a huge role in determining the outcome of any match. And to top it all, it only takes a few good rallies to turn the momentum in one's favour.

Amidst competition that possesses skill, experience and a burning desire to win a Gold medal for their countries, Sindhu will face challenges aplenty as she strives to do the same for India.

Edited by Atharva Papnoi