19 September 2023
Revolutionizing Training and Mentality: HS Prannoy’s Journey to Asian Games Excellence
In a career-defining year, HS Prannoy emerges as India’s prime contender for singles gold at the Asian Games, adopting a revolutionary approach to training and mental well-being. Contrasting with his pre-Olympic slump, Prannoy now reigns as India’s top-ranked men’s singles player, poised to seize badminton glory in Hangzhou.
Unlike traditional training methods, the 31-year-old phenom’s transformation hinges not on increased gym hours, but on a holistic regimen that prioritizes mental health. One standout example is a pre-match cycling excursion through Copenhagen, a day before facing off against the formidable Loh Kean Yew, the 2021 world champion, in the intense pre-quarter-finals of the 2023 World Championships.
Prannoy’s revolutionary approach bore fruit, culminating in a nail-biting victory over Loh, securing a scoreline of 21-18, 15-21, 21-19 in an exhilarating hour-long duel. The following day, he surpassed expectations yet again, besting the reigning world and Olympic champion, Viktor Axelsen, in a marathon match lasting an hour and eight minutes. This heroic effort clinched him a well-deserved bronze, marking a historic milestone in his illustrious career.
Prannoy’s ascent to the pinnacle of world rankings, at the age of 31, is punctuated by his triumph at the Malaysia Masters earlier in the year and a memorable run to the final of the Australian Open, cementing 2023 as the zenith of his career.
This meteoric rise is a testament to Prannoy’s dedicated focus on both physical and mental well-being. A collaborative effort between his trainer, Rohan George Mathew, esteemed coaches Pullela Gopichand and Sai Dutt, and a team of physios ensures a systematic and sustainable training regime. This strategic approach empowers Prannoy to not only endure grueling matches but to rebound swiftly, poised for victory.
Prannoy stresses that post-match discomfort is often a result of the emotional intensity of the game, an element that cannot be replicated in training. Consequently, targeted strength and conditioning programs have been meticulously designed to address specific areas, including the upper hamstring region.
Mentally, Prannoy’s evolution transcends conventional goal-setting. He now finds fulfillment in the journey itself, liberating himself from the shackles of rigid tournament-based objectives. This paradigm shift, cultivated over the past few years, has alleviated undue pressure, paving the way for a more sustainable and rewarding approach. His focus centers on continual growth over the upcoming months and years, rather than fixating on a singular event like the Asian Games.
Prannoy’s watershed moment at the Thomas Cup served as a validation of his process-driven approach. It illuminated the path to significant achievements through steadfast, methodical work. This historic feat not only bolstered his confidence but also ignited a renewed belief in the potential of Indian badminton.
Reflecting on his recent World Championships medal, Prannoy exudes contentment, acknowledging that even greater opportunities lie ahead. This optimistic perspective fuels his motivation, underscoring his unwavering commitment to his unorthodox approach. With the world at his feet, Prannoy is poised for even greater triumphs on the global stage.
