Rewards spur me on: Sushil
Sushil Kumar
Star India grappler Sushil Kumar’s cupboard is brimming with medals and trophies won world over including his most prized possessions — an Olympics silver and a bronze. Outside the ring too, his efforts have been recognised by various agencies including the government of India.
Having won the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (2009) and the Padma Shri (2011), Sushil is in line to be honoured with the country’s third highest civilian honour, the Padma Bhushan, after being nominated for the award alongwith cricketer Rahul Dravid.
“I indeed feel privileged and honoured at being recommended for this recognition. This award will be another recognition for my hard work and determination,” Sushil was quoted as saying.
“I am the first Indian athlete to win two Olympic medals. We gave everything to the sport and this award will help in raising the profile of the game. Such recognitions always help in attracting more youngsters towards the sport. I am thankful to the sports ministry for recommending my name. I feel happy and excited,” he added.
Sushil’s close friend and London Games bronze medallist Yogeshwar Dutt has been recommended for this year’s Padma Shri alongwith pistol shooter Vijay Kumar and the 29-year-old is confident that the recognition will spur Dutt to do better in future.
“I am confident that he will also get the award. He snatched the bronze medal at the London Games for which he got the Khel Ratna. Now this will further motivate him for the upcoming tournaments.
“It’s a big honour for any sportsperson. We fight on the mat to bring glory to the country and such recognitions always help in boosting our confidence,” said the 29-year-old Sushil. The world championships are scheduled this year in Budapest, Hungary, from September 16 to 22 and Sushil is confident of doing well at the prestigious meet.
“I am back to training for the upcoming meets which include the senior Asian wrestling championship in April in Delhi, followed by the world championships.
“I am working hard towards achieving my aim of winning medals there.”
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