NEW DELHI: India's Olympic-bound
wrestler Ravi Dahiya
clinched a gold medal at the Asian Wrestling Championship in February earlier this year at the
Indira Gandhi Stadium
and he is determined to carry on his good form at the ongoing World Cup in
Belgrade
, Serbia.
Dahiya, after spending a few days at his village Nahari, focused on his practice and training at the Chhatrasal Stadium in New Delhi and trained under the supervision of the two-time Olympic medallist
Sushil Kumar.
"I am in good form. I will give my best in the World Cup. A medal at the World Cup will be a huge boost ahead of the
Tokyo Olympics
. This World Cup will tell me how prepared I am for the Olympics. This tournament will show what my current level is. I just want to go, learn and give my best," Dahiya told Timesofindia.com in an exclusive interview.
For Dahiya, the art of handling pressure, which he learned from legendary wrestler legend Sushil. The veteran wrestler was available whenever Dahiya needed him at the Chhatrasal Stadium.
"I maintained continuity in my training and practice. The stadiums and training centres were closed due to
COVID-19
. I knew I didn't have to participate in any tournament but I didn't miss anything as part of my routine. I trained and practiced the way I usually do. I am so happy and excited international wrestling is back. I am ready and prepared for this big tournament. I am confident of putting in a good performance," the 23-year-old wrestler said.
With the Tokyo Olympics postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ravi, who won a bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships in
Nur Sultan
to book his ticket for the Games, is just focusing on his 'lakshya' (goal).
"I went to my village for 10 days during the lockdown and then returned back to the stadium (Chhatrasal Stadium). Sushil bhaisaab was there with me. Whenever I have any doubts, I reach him. He is a legend of the game. He has a solution for everything. He always says one thing to me "apne lakshya pe date raho" (Always focus on your goals). He says there is no alternative to hard work. He has given me a lot of tips for the World Cup and Olympics," Ravi signed off.
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