Saina Nehwal's Swiss Open triumph inspired by Sachin Tendulkar's 100th ton

Mar 20, 2012 |

Hyderabad

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It was Sachin Tendulkar's 100th international century that ‘inspired’ India's ace shuttler Saina Nehwal to overcome a form slump and win the Swiss Open recently, the world number five said on Tuesday.

"In fact, when he scored that 100, it was the semifinals day (in Basel, Switzerland). I got a lot of inspiration from him. I told myself I also have to do well. I can also win the title...that also happened. I really thank him for giving me that inspiration on that day," Saina said.

"It is a historic landmark and I don't think there is anything more for Sachin to achieve," she added.

Saina defeated third-ranked Shixian Wang of China 21-19 21-16 in a thrilling 48-minute contest, which helped her defend the women's singles title.

"Sachin Tendulkar is a legend. He is a great player. Everyone knows that. Nothing more I can say about him. I respect him like God. He is inspiration to all the sportspersons in India."

Asked if Tendulkar deserves the Bharat Ratna, Saina responded in positive.

"I have been saying that from last year. He deserves it. He is Bharat Ratna for me. He is Ratna for everyone. Whether he gets it or not, he is Ratna for all of us.

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