Mumbai: India’s No.2 men’s singles player, HS Prannoy, said Friday that a high ranking would help players avoid meeting top shuttlers in early rounds, while conceding that the primary focus should be on winning big events.
“After a certain period it’s not about rankings but about winning tournaments. However, a lot depends on rankings. If you need a good draw in major tournaments you need to be ranked in the top 10. Otherwise you will run into the top seed in the first or second round and that will dampen your spirits,” said Prannoy here.
Prannoy, who has reached the World No.10 rank for the first time in his career, spoke to reporters after being announced as a player of debutants Ahmedabad Smash Masters in the third edition of the Premier Badminton League (PBL) commencing, December 23.
“If you are lucky to be in the top eight and if you have the luxury to skip tournaments here and there, you should do it. You should then look at the big picture, focus on training for the big events,” added Prannoy.
On the season that’s coming to an end, Prannoy stated that the victories in the initial part were a big confidence-booster for him.
“The start was crucial. A couple of wins here and there gives lot of confidence. It was the same for (Kidambi) Srikanth too. My performance in the Indonesian and US Open tourneys gave me a lot of confidence and it has carried on till the China Open,”Prannoy pointed out.
Prannoy while stating his consistency has improved conceded that he still has a lot to do in that particular segment of his game.
“It’s tough because in Super Series events we are playing against the best continuously. I am happy with the way I have improved my consistency level, but I still need to improve if I am to win a few Super Series events,” Prannoy asserted.
He also credited Indonesian coach Mulyo Handoyo for the extra push the players get during training. “He’s made a lot of difference. He’s positive with a lot of experience and knows what’s to be done. He gives us that extra push,” Prannoy asserted.
Press trust of India
