Prakash Padukone’s comments on Lakshya Sen’s loss at the Paris Olympics 2024 have sparked controversy. Padukone, the former coach and mentor of the badminton team, expressed disappointment and urged players to “step up and win as expected.”
These remarks drew mixed reactions. Ashwini Ponnappa, a fellow badminton player, responded with a fiery reply. However, Olympic medallist Abhinav Bindra, who was present at the Olympics as part of the Athletes Commission, partially agreed with Padukone.
Bindra emphasized collective accountability, stating, “An athlete is very much part of it. So I don’t completely disagree with what Mr. Padukone said.” He also highlighted the need for responsible spending on athletes and ensuring that funds are utilized effectively.
Padukone further stressed the importance of mental training for athletes to handle pressure situations. He suggested implementing a system similar to China’s, where they develop multiple players instead of relying on a single star.
“We cannot remain satisfied just having one player. We need to focus on the next line, maybe even the third line,” Padukone said. “There is a lot of talent, but a combined effort is required.”
He also emphasized the need for players to take responsibility and be accountable for their performance. “Not just ask for whatever you ask for. Once you are given that, you also have to be accountable,” he said.
Padukone’s comments have sparked a debate about the expectations placed on Indian athletes, the need for mental training, and the importance of developing a robust talent pipeline.
