Deepak Punia: 'Zero expectations' & 'No pressure' helped me win Silver

'n-recognition' is a 'virtue', is t understood by many. But for Deepak Punia, it worked as a 'miracle', as he 'quietly prepared' for challenge at top flight without any 'spotlight' or 'pressure'. " one recognised me. one talked to me. At times, I was confused as an official or a coach. one paid any attention to me. I was away from spotlight. Everyone talked about Bajrang bhai, Vinesh ji and my Guruji (Sushil Kumar). That actually helped. It gave me strength from within to do something like m," Deepak told Republic TV after his return from World Championship.

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Sushil Kumar Always Believes in Me: Deepak Punia

"I used to hear what people say about m and felt proud of my "Guruji" (Sushil Kumar)..  he is recognised, loved and praised by everyone wherever he goes. And he always believes in me and my ability. It was an hour to travel along with him in a competition that he was participating in. Before leaving he h told me, & I remember; "Mujhe mile na mile, tera medal to pakka hi hai"..  I took it as a 'joke' but never thought it would actually come true," Deepak said. Sushil h lost in first or qualifying round while his ward Deepak went on to win a silver, which one else in contingent could. "w I dedicate this medal to Guruji Mahabali Satpal ji and Sushil Pehewalnji. I completely owe m this medal," he ded.

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'Deepak Is Next Big Thing in Wrestling'

Sushil heaped high praises on his ward Deepak; "Didn't I tell you all... Deepak is next big thing in wrestling. It's just a beginning for him. He will win many medals and laurels for country." Talking of his ward, Mahabali Satpal said: "I h spotted his talent at of 12 and it's a proud feeling my institute Chhatrashal Stium has w produced a Gold (Sushil) and two silver (Amit Dahiya in 2013 & Deepak in 2019) medallists. w our focus turns to 2020 Olympics."

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