Dhinidhi Desinghu expresses disappointment despite historic Youth Olympics bronze medal
The 16-year-old swimmer became the first Indian to win a medal at the Youth Olympics in Dakar.
Dhinidhi Desinghu won a bronze medal in the women's 100m freestyle at the Youth Olympics in Dakar, marking the first medal for an Indian swimmer at the event, according to the Times of India.
Despite the historic achievement, the 16-year-old swimmer said she was disappointed because she had aimed to win gold or break the 56-second barrier. She recorded a final time of 56.27 seconds, which improved her previous Best Indian Time of 56.57.
Desinghu told PTI that she felt more pressure at the Youth Olympics than at the Paris Olympics, where she was the youngest member of the Indian contingent. She said the Youth Olympics involved competing against people she will face in future World Championships or World Juniors.
The swimmer noted that while she missed her personal targets, bringing back the country's first medal was a proud moment, especially given the lack of visibility for women's swimming in India.
Desinghu has two more events remaining in Dakar, including her main event, the 200m freestyle. She stated that her performance in the 100m gave her more confidence regarding her opening speed.