Dipa Karmakar motivated youngsters to take up gymnastics: Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar termed Dipa Karmakar’s 2016 Olympics performance as big moment in Indian sporting history

 

 

Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday lavished praise on gymnast Dipa Karmakar for motivating youngsters in the country. Tendulkar was present at the Mumbai launch of the book ‘Dipa Karmakar – The Small Wonder’.

“Dipa has not only left an impression, but also motivated thousands of youngsters to go out and do something special for our country and that is what matters,” Tendulkar said at the event.

Karmakar, who became an overnight star after finishing at a creditable fourth place in the Vault event during the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, said her focus was now on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics qualification.

“I will be competing in Olympic qualification event in March. Now the criteria for getting qualification has changed drastically,” said Karmakar.

“This criteria is very tough for the countries like us, who are not developed much in gymnastics. But, I am preparing and trying at my best [to get that qualification].”

Karmakar shared several anecdotes about her coach Nandi and also spoke about the contribution of Dr Anant Joshi, who operated her following the knee injury.

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