New Delhi: In one of the biggest upsets of the Rio Olympics, India's medal hope Saina Nehwal crashed out after suffering a shocking straight-game loss against World No. 61 Maria Ulitina of Ukraine in her second Group G match.
World No. 5 Saina lost 18-21 19-21 to Maria with what seemed to look like an embarrassing defeat, but real reason behind the loss was something else.
It apparently comes out as Saina Nehwal was struggling with an injury which prevented her movement during the match. Hard luck Saina!
had inflammation on right knee it was strapped and I could not move as well. She played well but I was restricted by my movements: @NSaina
— Badminton India (@BadmintonIndia) August 14, 2016
Confirmed @NSaina had to take a dexamethasone injection y'day to overcome fat pad inflammation in her knee. Not enough time to take effect.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) August 14, 2016
Very tough for @NSaina. Clearly struggling with movement
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) August 14, 2016
This wasn't @NSaina playing. Such tragedy to come so far and be so handicapped. Waiting to hear what it was.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) August 14, 2016
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