Their quarterfinal loss at the World Badminton Championships is passé. On Sunday, the mixed doubles pair of Jwala Gutta and V Diju became the first Indian duo to win a Gold Grand Prix event. Ranked eighth in the world, the duo registered a hard fought victory over Indonesians Hendra Gunawan and Vita Marissa to clinch the Chinese Taipei Grand Gold Prix title.
Excerpts from a telephonic conversation with HT.
A historic win after the World Championships loss.
Jwala: It's for the first time that an Indian pair has won a Gold Grand Prix event. I am very happy with my performance..
Diju: Our performance at the Championships wasn't all that bad but a win always gives you immense satisfaction
What were the factors that led to your victory?
Jwala: The consistency with which we have been playing for the past 8-9 months helped us a lot. Apart from that, Diju played really well and I am proud to be associated with him.
Diju: It was a joint effort. I think my smashes were pretty good and that made the difference.
Earlier, you had to pull out of the Macau Open.
Jwala: Diju had a stiff back so we withdrew from the Macau Open and played the Chinese Taipei. It was the right decision.
{{/usCountry}}Jwala: Diju had a stiff back so we withdrew from the Macau Open and played the Chinese Taipei. It was the right decision.
{{/usCountry}}Diju: The pain still persists but I am taking care of it and will be fit soon.
What are your plans?
Jwala: To register another win at the Yonex Japan Super Series that starts 22 September.
Diju: Next up is the Japan Series for which I will be attending the camp in Hyderabad starting September 12.
Has the win made up for the disappointing loss at the WC?
Jwala: Not at all, the World Championships has its own place.
Diju: No win can replace a victory or defeat at the Worlds.