CHENNAI: Indian table tennis legend Achanta Sharath Kamal is gearing up for his fifth Olympic appearance, set to take place in Paris. Despite his extensive experience and numerous accolades, the 41-year-old flagbearer believes that his best performances are still ahead of him.

Sharath Kamal’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. At the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, he defied age and expectations to secure three gold medals, including a standout victory in the men’s singles category. This impressive feat was a testament to his enduring skill and dedication to the sport.

However, the veteran paddler faced a setback at the Asian Games in Hangzhou last year, where he returned without any medals. Despite this, Sharath Kamal and the Indian men’s team made a strong comeback. Their last-16 finish at the World Table Tennis Championships in Busan in February was crucial in clinching a historic Olympic quota for Paris, thanks to their world rankings.

As Sharath Kamal prepares for Paris 2024, he remains optimistic and motivated. “I believe my best is yet to come,” he said, reflecting on his continuous growth and evolving game. With his experience and newfound vigor, he aims to achieve new milestones and bring more glory to Indian table tennis on the Olympic stage.

Indian sports enthusiasts eagerly await Sharath Kamal’s performance in Paris, hopeful that the seasoned athlete will once again turn back the clock and deliver memorable performances.