Star paddler Yashaswini Ghorpade is preparing for the Asian Games with ambitions of making a strong impact for India. In an exclusive interview with The Free Press Journal, she discussed her journey, family support, Ultimate Table Tennis experience, fitness and training routine, mental preparation and expectations.

Indian table tennis player Yashaswini Ghorpade is preparing for the Asian Games with the ambition of making a strong impact on the continental stage. Having risen through the age-group ranks and established herself as one of India’s leading paddlers, Ghorpade is now looking to translate her progress into a strong performance at the prestigious event.

In an exclusive interview with The Free Press Journal, she spoke about her journey from a quiet childhood and school-level introduction to table tennis to competing at the highest level. Yashaswini recently won title at the Senior National Table Tennis Championships in Indore. She also opened up about her family’s support, the role of Ultimate Table Tennis, her fitness and training routine, mental preparation and her expectations ahead of the Asian Games.

Excerpts...

1. Could you tell us a little about your childhood and background? What was Yashaswini like before table tennis became such an important part of your life?