Paris Olympics: Disappointment in Tokyo, entered after overcoming mental conflict, such was the journey of Anjum Modgil

The journey of Indian shooters in the Tokyo Olympics wasn't good, and Anjum Modgil was a part of this. Anjum failed to get into the Indian team for both the Asian Games and the World Championship scheduled last year. She was hugely dejected by it and entered the Paris Games after much mental conflict. She admitted that her eyes opened only after she was not selected in the Indian team for the World Championship and Asian Games. Thereafter, she focused on her mental strength and practice.

Realizing the importance of mental health issues, the International Olympic Committee launched an initiative in which all players will be counseled regarding mental health during the Olympics. The world number one entering into the competition, Modgil had won medals in the World Championships and Commonwealth Games, but she could not turn in a befitting performance in the Tokyo Olympics. She finished 15th in the 50m rifle 3 positions and 18th in the 10-meter air rifle. She will participate only in the 50m 3 position in the Paris Olympics.

Anjum said, ups and downs for me came three years after Tokyo. I saw bad times, and I wanted to make a strong comeback. The experience of Tokyo will definitely come in handy in Paris. I really took advantage of the quota and trials. The federation had told me not to lose hope. They were well aware of the phase which I was going through. Missing the team for the World Championships and Asian Games was to be expected, so I was very sure that I would make a strong comeback. I just worked on my game and had confidence in my mind that I will do my best till it comes in the trials. I knew what were my strong points; how to handle pressure—to all this, I benefited.

Modgil said, one year after the Tokyo Olympics, I won some medals in the World Cup and became a number one player of the world. I focused on becoming strong, which is a mentally positive step to me. Now I don't hesitate while speaking, that's quite a positive change before the Paris Olympics, he further added. I used that time to become better, find out what is better for me. Then, all federations and the IOC should understand about mental health. It's important to have understanding about the mental health of the player. So, starting a mental health helpline during the Paris Olympics is a positive step.