NEW DELHI: Tulika Maan was uncertain about her chances of qualifying for the Olympics, but now that she has secured a spot for the Paris Games, the Indian judoka is aiming for a medal and has set her sights on reaching at least the bronze play-off.
The 25-year-old, who won a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games, earned a continental quota for the +78 kg category at the Paris Olympics on Tuesday.
TimesofIndia.com caught up with Tulika and spoke to her about her training, Paris dreams and much more…Can you share details about your journey to the Paris Olympics 2024?
It all started with my National Games and the Commonwealth Games, which you could call a turning point where people recognized me and my sport. The support and training I received, along with dealing with my injury and other training mistakes, and overcoming all those challenges to qualify for the Olympics, remind me of every obstacle I’ve faced in all my competitions, from national to international levels.
How is your preparation?
It’s going very well. I am training in Spain, and I have a proper schedule created by my coach.
It’s your maiden Olympics. What are you targeting?
I am aiming to reach the final qualifications, where every opponent is on equal footing, so that I can then pursue a medal.
What is the most challenging part of your journey to the Olympics?
Rigorous training helps me overcome my past mistakes. Achieving mental and physical stability is the most challenging aspect for any athlete preparing for the Olympics.
Who is your inspiration and why?
Football legend Lionel Messi is my inspiration. The way he patiently handles situations and overcomes challenges boosts my self-esteem.
India have never won an Olympic medal in Judo. Is Tulika eyeing glory in her maiden appearance?
Yes, indeed. My coach and I have our plan ready, and we are working on it.
Did you get in touch with any former Olympian or former Indian judoka to get tips ahead of the Paris Games?
Not really, but my coach guides me throughout my training journey. He is the one who helps me plan and train.
How do you keep your fitness level high?
Training with a proper plan and schedule includes attention to both physical and mental health. Physically, I need to balance my intense training with a proper diet and stay hydrated. I use Evocus to help prevent dehydration. For mental stability, yoga helps me stay calm and focused.
The 25-year-old, who won a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games, earned a continental quota for the +78 kg category at the Paris Olympics on Tuesday.
TimesofIndia.com caught up with Tulika and spoke to her about her training, Paris dreams and much more…Can you share details about your journey to the Paris Olympics 2024?
It all started with my National Games and the Commonwealth Games, which you could call a turning point where people recognized me and my sport. The support and training I received, along with dealing with my injury and other training mistakes, and overcoming all those challenges to qualify for the Olympics, remind me of every obstacle I’ve faced in all my competitions, from national to international levels.
How is your preparation?
It’s going very well. I am training in Spain, and I have a proper schedule created by my coach.
It’s your maiden Olympics. What are you targeting?
I am aiming to reach the final qualifications, where every opponent is on equal footing, so that I can then pursue a medal.
What is the most challenging part of your journey to the Olympics?
Rigorous training helps me overcome my past mistakes. Achieving mental and physical stability is the most challenging aspect for any athlete preparing for the Olympics.
Who is your inspiration and why?
Football legend Lionel Messi is my inspiration. The way he patiently handles situations and overcomes challenges boosts my self-esteem.
India have never won an Olympic medal in Judo. Is Tulika eyeing glory in her maiden appearance?
Yes, indeed. My coach and I have our plan ready, and we are working on it.
Did you get in touch with any former Olympian or former Indian judoka to get tips ahead of the Paris Games?
Not really, but my coach guides me throughout my training journey. He is the one who helps me plan and train.
How do you keep your fitness level high?
Training with a proper plan and schedule includes attention to both physical and mental health. Physically, I need to balance my intense training with a proper diet and stay hydrated. I use Evocus to help prevent dehydration. For mental stability, yoga helps me stay calm and focused.
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