Bronze Medal Win
In a historic moment for Indian table tennis, Ayhika Mukherjee and Sutirtha Mukherjee clinched the bronze medal in the women’s doubles tournament at the Asian Games 2023 held in Hangzhou, China. This victory not only marks a significant achievement for the Mukherjee duo but also a momentous milestone for Indian table tennis.
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Semi-Final Showdown
The journey to this remarkable achievement was not without its challenges. In the semi-finals, Ayhika and Sutirtha faced a formidable opponent in the form of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPR Korea) Suyong Cha and Sugyong Pak. The match was a closely contested battle that went down to the wire. After a grueling seven-game clash that lasted 60 minutes, the Mukherjee pair narrowly lost with a scoreline of 4-3 (11-7, 8-11, 11-7, 8-11, 9-11, 11-5, 2-11). Despite the loss, reaching the semi-finals secured them the coveted bronze medal, as is the custom in table tennis at the Asian Games for losing semi-finalists.
Quarter-Final Triumph
The journey to the semi-finals saw Ayhika and Sutirtha produce exceptional performances. In the quarter-finals, they pulled off a sensational upset by defeating the world No. 2 duo and defending world champions in women’s doubles, Chen Meng and Wang Yidi of China. The Indian pair’s exceptional skills were on full display as they triumphed 3-1 (11-5, 11-5, 5-11, 11-9) against the formidable Chinese opponents, including a two-time Olympic gold medalist in Chen Meng.
The Secret Weapon: Ayhika Mukherjee’s Anti-Spin Rubber against China
In the midst of the intense women’s doubles quarter-finals at the Asian Games 2023, the reigning world champion duo of Chen Meng and Wang Yidi found themselves in unfamiliar territory. They were up against the formidable backhand return of Ayhika Mukherjee, which would go on to play a pivotal role in India’s historic triumph at the Games in Hangzhou.
A Surprise for the Chinese Champions
Chen Meng and Wang Yidi, ranked second and fourth in singles respectively, were caught off guard by Ayhika’s backhand, which utilized an anti-spin rubber. This unconventional choice left the Chinese pair perplexed, as they managed to secure only five points in each of the first two games of the match. The Indian duo’s strategy was clear: slow down the game with Ayhika’s backhand, allowing Suthirtha Mukherjee to unleash her powerful forehand with short-pimpled rubber.
An Unconventional Tactic in Asian Games 2023 Quarter-finals
Facing the formidable Chinese duo, Ayhika and Suthirtha understood that they had to employ a unique strategy to stand a chance. Their plan was simple yet effective—use Ayhika’s backhand with anti-spin rubber to create a different spin on the ball, making it difficult for their opponents to predict and return effectively. It was their only viable option against the mighty Chinese team, and it turned out to be a game-changer.
Understanding the Magic of the Rubber
The Dr. Neubauer Gorilla anti-spin rubber that Ayhika used was not a magic wand. It required skill and an overall game plan, including backhand blocks and offensive forehand strokes, to harness its full potential. This rubber had a unique quality: when the opponent played a top spin shot, the anti-spin rubber created a reverse effect, causing the ball to come back with a heavy cut. This was the puzzle that the Chinese duo couldn’t solve.
Complementary Styles
Sandeep Gupta, a prominent coach, emphasized that it wasn’t just about the rubber; it was the synergy between Ayhika and Suthirtha that made the difference. Ayhika’s anti-spin return set up the point, and Suthirtha’s forehand followed, adding spin and complexity to the ball’s trajectory. This combination made it challenging for their opponents to handle, resulting in shorter rallies where the Indian pair excelled.
A Momentous Achievement
Securing a medal at the Asian Games, where table tennis powerhouses like China, Japan, and Korea compete, is a monumental accomplishment. It not only signifies a historic achievement for Ayhika and Suthirtha but also holds great significance for their coach, Soumyadeep Roy, who has been with them throughout their journey.
Looking to the Future
As Ayhika and Suthirtha continue their campaign, they carry the hopes of their nation for even greater success. Their coach, Roy, believes that winning at the Asian Games is equivalent to an Olympic victory, considering the formidable competition from Asian nations. Doubles, although not an Olympic event, is crucial for securing medals at the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and World Championships.
Overcoming Adversity
Roy’s coaching journey had its share of challenges, including allegations made against him in the past. However, he has chosen to focus on his role in nurturing talents like Ayhika and Suthirtha. He doesn’t see it as redemption but as a testament to his dedication to the sport and his players.
A Coach’s Pride
Emotions run high for Roy, who recalls the early days when both Ayhika and Suthirtha trained tirelessly. Their relentless commitment, combined with skill development, has debunked the myth that rubber alone can’t win matches. Roy emphasizes that players must maximize the potential of their equipment by developing an all-around game and maintaining peak fitness.
A Special Victory
As Ayhika and Suthirtha broke the Chinese dominance in table tennis, Roy’s prediction from earlier in the year came true. The duo’s victory at the WTT Contender in Tunis in June was a sign of things to come, and they delivered on the biggest stage at the Asian Games.
Ayhika Mukherjee’s unique use of anti-spin rubber, combined with Suthirtha Mukherjee’s forehand prowess, led to an extraordinary upset at the Asian Games 2023. Their victory not only showcases their skill but also represents a triumph for their coach and the future of Indian table tennis. As they aim for the gold medal, their journey continues to inspire and captivate the world of sports.
Dominating Performances
Throughout the competition, Ayhika and Sutirtha displayed their prowess on the table. They showcased their abilities by defeating Thailand’s Wanwisa Aueawiriyayothin and Jinnipa Sawettabut 3-0 (11-8, 11-7, 11-4) in the round of 16 and Kazakhstan’s Zauresh Akasheva and Anastassiya Lavrova 3-0 (11-7, 11-4, 11-7) in the opening match.
A Journey of Achievements
It’s worth noting that earlier in the year, the Mukherjee duo made history by becoming the first Indians to secure the WTT Contender women’s doubles title in Tunis. Their impressive performances have also earned them a world ranking of 16th, reflecting their growing reputation in international table tennis.
India’s Medal Tally
This bronze medal in women’s doubles marks India’s first-ever medal in this category and their third overall medal in table tennis at the Asian Games. India’s previous two medals came at Jakarta 2018, with Manika Batra and Sharath Kamal clinching a bronze in mixed doubles, and the men’s team securing a third-place finish on the podium.
Looking Ahead
As the Asian Games 2023 continue in Hangzhou, India is hoping to build on its success in table tennis and other sporting events. The Indian kabaddi team begins its campaign, while athletics, badminton, and various other disciplines are set to witness Indian athletes striving for glory.
Ayhika Mukherjee and Sutirtha Mukherjee’s historic bronze medal win in women’s doubles at the Asian Games 2023 is a testament to their skill, determination, and the promising future of Indian table tennis. This victory not only adds a prestigious medal to India’s tally but also inspires a new generation of athletes to aim for excellence on the international stage. As the Asian Games continue, the Mukherjees and the entire Indian contingent look to create more memorable moments and etch their names in the annals of Asian sporting history.
