Two surgeries, and as many comebacks to the court later, Mutatkar knows she has to deal with the assortment of pain, loss of form and ranking and at times suddenly-plunging confidence. At Mumbai, nothing little to script - the top-seed exited the competition in the quarters, but her slow return to full-fitness continues. “If I can get 2-3 injury-free seasons, things should be back on track. If, with two surgeries, the ranking’s 31, I’m sure if I stay healthy I can do better,” she said.

Beyond the brave-talk is some solid strength-work to be done - muscling up the quadraceps and hamstring to ensure the knee doesn’t give way again. And a few court-adjustments too. “I’ll need to re-think the lunging - increase my steps - take 3 instead of 2, and put less pressure on knee. I’ve been apprehensive on my forehand. And since I’m a retriever, I’ll need to find a way to make rallies shorter, and work on where I place the shuttle.”

The ultimate word of encouragement came from national coach P Gopichand - who had himself suffered from the anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) procedure. “He’s been in a similar situation and he insisted that I stay aggressive through it. He says some day you have to enter the court, you can’t hold back,” she added.

The next rung
Sayali Gokhale
The national champion, 22, picked her second big All-India title of the season at the Tata Open and would want to build on her international credentials after picking her maiden title abroad - the Spanish Open this summer. A touch player, who has improved rapidly over the last few years on her mental strength, Gokhale has shown manifold commitment after her national title, but still needs to work on her power and stamina.

... contd.