Indian table tennis star Sreeja Akula, fresh off her international successes, is fast becoming a role model not only for her performances but also for her approach to the game. In a candid and inspiring interaction, Sreeja emphasized a mantra that she believes every young sportsperson must adopt: “Never be passive.” Her message resonates far beyond the table, offering a powerful lesson in resilience, self-belief, and aggression in pursuit of one’s goals.
The 25-year-old paddler from Hyderabad has had a remarkable journey. From being one of the most consistent performers on the domestic circuit to earning accolades on the international stage, Sreeja’s rise has not been accidental. It is the result of persistence, tough training, and a clear mental approach — to stay active, not reactive.
A Career Built on Grit
Sreeja, who won the women’s singles title at the 2022 National Games and partnered with Sharath Kamal to win gold in mixed doubles at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, continues to push boundaries. Her attacking style of play is a reflection of her mindset — she doesn’t wait for opportunities; she creates them.
Speaking at a recent event in Hyderabad, Sreeja shared insights into her preparation and mental toughness. “It’s very easy to fall into a comfort zone, especially when you start winning. But the real growth happens when you constantly challenge yourself,” she said. Her advice to upcoming players was to adopt a mindset of learning and assertiveness, rather than being content with merely participating.
Lessons for the Next Generation
Sreeja’s advice — to avoid passivity — is especially vital in a sport like table tennis, where momentum and initiative can change the game in seconds. She highlighted that being aggressive doesn’t mean reckless hitting but being proactive, mentally sharp, and always ready to take control of the rally.
“Don’t wait for your opponent to make mistakes. Force them to,” she stressed. This attitude, she believes, must extend beyond the match — in training, fitness, diet, and mental preparation.
Balancing Confidence with Humility
Despite her success, Sreeja remains grounded. She acknowledged the role of coaches, mentors, and support staff in shaping her journey. “No one succeeds alone. But what you do with the support you get, that’s up to you,” she added.
As Indian table tennis continues to grow, athletes like Sreeja Akula are setting the tone — not just with medals, but with mindset. Her message to the next wave of talent is clear: play with purpose, train with fire, and never be passive.
In a country teeming with young potential, Sreeja’s words could well be the rallying cry for a more aggressive, confident generation of Indian athletes.
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