A RevSportz Exclusive Interview
The Indian athletes preparing for the Paris Olympics starting on July 26 are at a critical phase. While some have already booked their places and now executing their plans to peak on the big stage, a few more are still attempting qualification. Amidst this scenario, one athlete who is quietly competing and hoping she can do well in Paris 2024 is golfer Diksha Dagar.
Last week, she competed in the Jabra Open at the Evian Resort Golf Club in France and finished tied for 20th. Diksha had spoken to RevSportz before embarking on her Europe tour and answered questions on various topics.
To say that she has been a newsmaker would be stating the obvious. After all, she now has starts in over 100 tournaments on the Ladies European Tour (LET).
RevSportz: If you were to compare Diksha at the Olympics in Tokyo three years ago and today, how would you sum it up?
Diksha: For Tokyo, I had to work a lot. It was an individual effort on my part. This time, the Sports Authority of India TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) is supporting all golfers. I have more experience as well, and I’m hoping for things to go well.
RevSportz: You missed the Asian Games in Hangzhou and felt bad about it. Now, you will be at the Paris Olympics. Can you explain the emotions over the last few months and how you are geared up?
Diksha: I am trying to focus only on my golf, thinking too much about things beyond my control is unnecessary distraction. I want to stay focused and play well.
RevSportz: You were in the capital over a fortnight ago and honoured by the Delhi University. How does it feel, an academic recognition of sorts?
Diksha: I felt honoured to receive an award from the Vice President of India, (Jagdeep Dhankar), who is also the Chancellor of Delhi University. It was awarded for excellence in the field of sports. My mother received the award on my behalf. This inspires the youth to do well in various fields, besides being personal motivation.
(Diksha is pursuing a graduating course in Commerce at the DU’s School of Open Learning).
RevSportz: What is the roadmap ahead, how many events do you play before Paris, and will playing in Europe help you? Also, how do you think conditions in Paris will be?
Diksha: I have planned to stay in Europe and play events there leading up to the Paris Olympics. Weather and conditions in France are good for golf during July and August. I am not thinking much about this as would be the same for everyone.
RevSportz: Golf is a pro sport, that’s the general impression. How important are the Paris Olympics for you?
Diksha: The Olympics is the most important thing for me. I took to professional golf early because of my love and fascination for the Olympics. For me to represent India and be part of the Indian Olympic contingent is most prestigious.
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RevSportz: A sport like golf is expensive. How have you managed expenses and sponsorship at large?
Diksha: It’s got a lot to do interest, passion, and will. We, as a family, were very judicious and economical. Compensated for the deficiency of expensive equipment, gazettes and professional expertise by hard work. I do have help from my sponsors now, mainly Hero MotoCorp.
RevSportz: What’s the macro goal for you in your pro career? Have you looked at a blueprint?
Diksha: I want to be the best I can be. I like the challenge and excitement as well as the opportunities professional golf provides. I want to compete at the highest level and win a few big tournaments. I wish and hope to be in a position to give back to this sport and be able to make some contribution to society back home in India, as I see we have enough talent but very less facilities and opportunities.
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