Sridhar is Beijing medal prospect, says Padukone

With the May 1, 2008 rankings being the basis of the Badminton World Federation’s invitation list released this week, Sridhar, the highest ranked Indian at 33 in the world rankings, would be the country’s lone men’s singles challenger at the prestigious quadrennial event.

“The Olympics is a really special event and of course, it is the dream of every sportsperson to be a part of it.

“I am working hard at my game and am confident of doing my best at the Games,” Sridhar said at a get-together with sponsors and media here. Sridhar is a product of the Tata Prakash Padukone Academy here, and Padukone, the former All England champion, has coached him right from when he took up badminton, along with U Vimal Kumar.

Echoed Padukone: “In the present format, it’s possible. It’s not wishful thinking (that he can win a medal). He has beaten a couple of top ten players in the past.”