Payas: I remained committed to my approach throughout the journey.

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, 21-year-old Payas Jain triumphed at the season-opening National ranking tournament held at The Sportz Hub, overcoming reigning National champion Manav Thakkar. This victory comes just three weeks after Jain narrowly missed out on the Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship title in his hometown of New Delhi, where he fell short by two points. However, rather than dwelling on past disappointments, Jain focused on refining his approach to the game.

Jain emphasized that his recent success was not merely about chasing results but adhering to a well-defined process. “Nothing has changed,” he stated in an interview. “Before the Commonwealth Championship, I was trying to follow the process. Even after that, I continued to focus on the same.” With the Asian Games on the horizon, Jain's primary objective is to secure a medal for India. His strategy during the final against Thakkar showcased a deliberate and calculated approach, as he faced one of the toughest defensive players in Indian table tennis.

Throughout the match, Jain maintained his composure, patiently waiting for the right moments to capitalize on his opponent's weaknesses. He noted, “Whether it was my body language, shot-making, strategy, or tactics, everything was intentional.” This meticulous preparation paid off, as he executed his game plan with precision, demonstrating a deep understanding of Thakkar's style of play. “It was a great match. I actually played well and I was feeling very confident,” Jain remarked, reflecting on his performance.

As the final progressed, Jain's confidence surged. He adapted to the rhythm of the game, choosing to remain patient rather than forcing aggressive plays. “I knew that Manav was not going to miss so soon, and that it was going to be a tough fight,” he explained. His ability to stay engaged in rallies allowed him to seize opportunities when they arose, ultimately leading to his victory.

Jain, who is part of India's Asian Games squad, has had a strong domestic season, finishing second in the National rankings and inching closer to breaking into the world’s top 100. While he awaits his inclusion in the Sports Authority of India’s Target Olympic Podium Scheme for promising athletes, his focus remains firmly on the upcoming Asian Games, with Sunday’s win serving as a significant milestone on his journey toward that goal.