NEW DELHI: Deepika Kumari, a seasoned archer from India, faced a disappointing defeat in the quarterfinals of the women's individual event at the Paris Olympics on Saturday. She lost 4-6 to Nam Suhyeon of Korea, marking the end of India's journey in the competition.
Earlier that day, Deepika had secured her spot in the quarterfinals by overcoming Germany's Michelle Kroppen with a score of 6-4. However, she was unable to replicate her previous success against the young Korean archer, PTI reported.
In April, at the Shanghai World Cup, Deepika had triumphed over the 19-year-old Nam in straight sets during their semifinal encounter, ultimately earning a silver medal. Unfortunately, the Indian veteran could not deliver a similar performance on this crucial occasion at the Olympics.
Nam and Deepika were locked in a tight battle, with the score even at 4-4 after the completion of four sets. However, Nam's unwavering precision proved to be the deciding factor, as she secured victory in the fifth set, earning her a spot in the semifinals.
Despite facing criticism for her subpar performance in the team event, Deepika struggled to maintain consistency throughout the match. Her scores of six and seven in the second and fourth sets, respectively, proved to be a significant setback, ultimately leading to her defeat.
The 30-year-old Indian scored 28-26 in the first set, earning two points. She followed up with scores of 10, 6, and 9, but Nam leveled the match by winning the second set 28-25.
Deepika regained the lead by taking the third set 29-28 with two 10s. However, she scored 10, 7, and 10 in the fourth set, losing it 27-29.
In the decisive fifth set, Deepika scored three consecutive 9s, but the Korean sealed the victory with scores of 10, 9, and 10.
"It is disappointing. I don't know how and why I keep losing at the Olympic Games. Maybe the atmosphere gets to me. It's the weight of own expectations," Deepika said after her defeat, admitting it was her best chance to do well.
"Those were bad two shots and I feel like I have gifted her the match."
Coach Purmina Mahato explained that after taking the anchor position, the archers need to release early to stand a better chance of scoring well.
"Ideally, you should have your shot within 5-7 seconds of taking anchor position. If you hold, all kinds of thoughts start coming to your mind. She held that shot long (6 in second set) and the second time (7 in fourth set) she released it early due to pressure," said Mahato.
The coach said India needs a consistent supply of archers but does not think that it's time for Deepika to quit.
"She must continue. People do well, win medals in this sport, even when they age."
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