Credits: X
India’s top-ranked men’s singles shuttler HS Prannoy shared an emotional message after his journey at the Paris Olympics 2024 came to an unfortunate end. Prannoy lost his R16 clash against compatriot and lower-ranked Lakshya Sen on Friday, August 1, and bowed out of the 33rd edition of the Summer Games. Sen took down Prannoy 21-12, 21-6 in 39 minutes at the La Chapelle Arena’s Court 3 to advance to the next round.
After his heartbreaking exit, Prannoy took to X to share an emotional message with fans and stated that he wanted to finish on the podium. The 32-year-old went on to say that it was his dream to represent India at the biggest sporting event. On X, Prannoy shared, “I was not sure what to expect coming into these Olympic Games, with so many uncertainties. But then, that’s how sport works. I still wanted to be on that podium, but sometimes the journey teaches you more than the destination.”
Prannoy, who made his maiden Olympic appearance, went on to wish Sen to do his best and win a medal. The shuttler wrote, “A special shoutout to Lakshya keep fighting and bring home the medal, bruh!” The Delhi-born shuttler added, "Thank you to everyone for all the support. This journey has been unforgettable. Will always cherish the tag of an Olympian. That was a dream.”
The world-ranked 13 topped the standings in Group K and won both his games. In his campaign opener, Prannoy was up against Fabian Roth of Germany. He then took down Le Duc Phat of Vietnam to secure his berth in the Round of 16.
