Nagoya, September 23 (Daily Kiran) : Indian soft tennis player Jay Meena made headlines after winning a historic bronze medal in the men’s singles event at the Asian Games in Nagoya on September 23. Following his achievement, he pledged to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that India would secure all five gold medals in soft tennis if the sport is included in the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad.
Meena’s statement came after he faced a tough semifinal match against Japan’s Takuya Kurosaka, where he lost 2-4. Earlier, he showcased remarkable skills in the quarterfinals, making a stunning comeback against Sherwin Nuguijt.
In a decisive game, Meena was trailing 3-5 but rallied to win the next four points, clinching victory at 4-3 and ensuring India’s first Asian Games medal in soft tennis.
“I want to say this publicly: if soft tennis is included in the 2030 Commonwealth Games, I promise that all five gold medals will belong to India. I have faith in my team,” Meena declared. He emphasized the dedication that fuels their confidence, stating, “We deserve to win medals at that level.”
Meena also urged the government to continue supporting the sport, noting that the existing lawn tennis infrastructure could be utilized for soft tennis. “You don’t need to build new facilities; it can be played on grass, clay, or synthetic courts. Everything is already in place,” he explained.
The 28-year-old athlete expressed pride in being the first Indian to win an Asian Games medal in this sport, hoping it would inspire more players to take up soft tennis. “This medal will bring change in India. Now, every Indian can dream of winning medals because someone from our country has already done it,” he said, forecasting a new wave of enthusiasm for the sport.
The Indian team faced challenges leading up to this medal, having exited the men’s team event in the quarterfinals against Indonesia on September 18. Meena and partner Aadhya Tiwari also lost in the mixed doubles pre-quarterfinals.
“This medal was crucial for us. My team and I have endured tough times. It has affected our peace and mental health. We knew the government was supporting us, and the hopes of our families and the entire nation rested on us. The tricolor represents the hopes of millions, not just a medal or a flag,” he added.
Participating in his third Asian Games, following Jakarta 2018 and Hangzhou 2022, Meena credited his success to his coach, federation, teammates, and the government’s support. “I thank my coach, my federation, and SAI. The government provided us with equipment, training camps, and support. Winning this medal was our duty. I feel fortunate to bring this medal to India and to my team. Tears of joy filled our eyes as we waved the tricolor on the court. There is nothing greater than this for me.”
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