Picture Credit: Twitter
India’s badminton team created history by defeating Indonesia in the Thomas Cup finals and winning the first-ever gold medal at the event. This incredible feat by the players was lauded by everyone in the country including the Prime Minister. Narendra Modi first congratulated the players immediately after the win through a tweet.
He then interacted with them over a call and now the Indian Prime Minister interacted with the players in person at his residence. Narendra Modi has shared a video in which he is seen interacting with every player who was part of the Thomas Cup win. In the same video, India men’s singles player Lakshya Sen is seen gifting Almora’s ‘Bal Mithai’ to the PM.
"The PM asked for Almora's bal mithai and I got it for him. It is touching that he remembers small things about players," Sen said. "We feel very motivated whenever you meet us, interact with us. I hope I keep winning medals for India, keep meeting you, and keep getting bal mithai for you," the young shuttler added.
Kidambi Srikanth gifts his racquet
While Lakshya Sen brought bal mithai for the PM, Kidambi Srikanth gifted Narendra Modi his racquet. He also thanked the PM for his continuous support for the athletes. "I can very proudly say that no other athlete in the world can boast about this, sir. Only we have this privilege of talking to you immediately after winning. First of all, thank you so much, sir," Srikanth said.
"Athletes will be proud to say that we have the backing of our prime minister," he added.
Watch the video here:
This is not a small feat: Narendra Modi
While players looked overwhelmed with the love and support, they got from the Indian PM, Narendra Modi further showered praise on the players and reminded them that what they have achieved is not a small feat. "I congratulate the whole team on behalf of the nation. This is not a small feat. You have done it. There was a time when we were so behind in these tournaments that no one would know here," said Modi.
