Sreeja Akula has etched her name in Indian sporting history by becoming the second Indian woman to reach the Round of 16 at the Olympics. The talented paddler overcame a stiff challenge from Singapore’s Jian Zeng to secure a thrilling 4-2 victory.
A Battle of Nerves and A Historic Moment for Indian Table Tennis
Sreeja’s journey to the Round of 16 was far from easy. She displayed remarkable resilience, overcoming a shaky start to dominate the middle games. Zeng, however, proved to be a formidable opponent, pushing Akula to the brink in the fifth and sixth games.
Akula’s achievement is a testament to the growing strength of Indian table tennis. Joining Manika Batra in the Round of 16, India has made a significant impact on the global stage.
What’s Next?
Sreeja Akula will face the top seed, Yinghsa Sun, in the Round of 16 later tonight at 12:30 am IST.
The road ahead is challenging for Sreeja as she faces the daunting task of taking on top seed Yinghsa Sun.
Player Profile Comparison
| Attribute | Yingsha Sun | Sreeja Akula |
|---|---|---|
| Country | People’s Republic of China | India |
| Sport | Table Tennis | Table Tennis |
| Date of Birth | November 4, 2000 | July 31, 1998 |
| Age | 23 | 26 |
| Gender | Female | Female |
| Place of Birth | Shijiazhuang, China | Hyderabad, India |
| Place of Residence | Beijing, China | India |
| Olympic Debut | 2021 | 2024 |
| Rank | 1 (Women’s Team, Tokyo 2021) | – |
| 2 (Women’s Singles, Tokyo 2021) | – | |
| Position Style | Attacker/Shakehand | Attacker/Shakehand |
Sreeja Akula Makes Historic Olympic Debut- Moves to round 32 -India’s Rising Table Tennis Star Shines at Paris Olympics
Sreeja Akula-India’s table tennis star, has made a strong start to her Olympic journey. Competing in her first-ever Olympic Games in Paris, the 25-year-old Hyderabadi displayed impressive form, defeating Swedish opponent Christina Källberg in the women’s singles Round of 64. With a convincing 4-0 victory, Akula advanced to the Round of 32. The Arjuna Awardee, known for her aggressive playing style, is carrying the hopes of the nation as she aims to make a deep run in the tournament.
Sreeja Akula, India’s burgeoning table tennis sensation, kicked off her maiden Olympic campaign with a resounding victory. The 25-year-old Hyderabadi defeated Swedish opponent Christina Källberg in the women’s singles Round of 64 on July 28, 2024. Akula displayed exceptional dominance, securing a convincing 11-4, 11-9, 11-7, 11-5 win, propelling her to the Round of 32.
Personal Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian |
| Born | July 31, 1998 (age 25) |
| Birthplace | Hyderabad, India |
| Playing Style | Right-handed, shakehand grip |
| Highest Ranking | 24 (25 June 2024) |
| Current Ranking | 24 (25 June 2024) |
A Meteoric Rise
Hailing from a table tennis-loving family, Sreeja’s journey to the pinnacle of Indian table tennis is a testament to her dedication and talent. Coached by Somnath Ghosh, she honed her skills at Kukatpally, Hyderabad, after initial training at St Paul’s Academy and YMCA.
Her rapid ascent is marked by numerous accolades. A two-time Indian national champion, Sreeja is currently India’s top-ranked women’s singles player. The Arjuna Award, bestowed upon her in 2022, is a recognition of her outstanding contributions to the sport.
A Medalist and Trailblazer
The 2022 Commonwealth Games proved to be a watershed moment for Sreeja. Partnering with Sharath Kamal, she clinched the gold medal in the mixed doubles event. This historic achievement propelled her into the national spotlight.
Building on this success, Sreeja continued to make waves in the international arena. In June 2024, she scripted history by becoming the first Indian to win a singles title at the WTT Contender level, emerging victorious at the WTT Contender Lagos.
From Hyderabad to the World Stage
Sreeja’s journey from a Hyderabad-based table tennis enthusiast to a global star is an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the country. Her Olympic debut is a culmination of years of hard work and dedication. With her exceptional talent and unwavering determination, Sreeja is poised to leave an enduring mark on the world of table tennis.
As she progresses through the Olympics, the nation watches with bated breath, hoping to witness more triumphs from this rising star.
Paris 2024 Olympics: All the Action Featuring India – Schedule & IST Timings