Tokyo 2020 boost for PV Sindhu after Advanced Recovery System request approved

Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu was handed a major boost ahead of Tokyo 2020, slated to get underway from July 23 2021, after the government sanctioned her request for an advanced recovery system within 24 hours.

The advanced recovery system will help the Rio 2016 silver medallist to maintain top physical shape ahead of the Olympics. She has been training at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad under South Korean coach Park Tae Sang.

"I am happy that it did not take even a day for the Sports Authority of India (SAI) to approve my request for the recovery system," Sindhu said upon receiving the administrative sanction to procure the system.

"The clearance was really quick, and I will be able to place an order and procure it in time to take it with me to the Olympic Games," she added.

However, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) did not specify the cost of the system, which can reduce pain, spasm and swelling by cooling the affected areas.

The system helps in cooling and recovery of an athlete's body by circulating ice water and delivering intermittent compression through specific wraps for legs, arms, back and shoulders.

"It will help me immensely after each long training session or match as it is a portable cold and compression recovery system," Sindhu said. 

"Sometimes one gets exhausted and experiences stiffness after matches. This will help in a quick and systematic recovery," she added. 

Sindhu will be the lone Indian women's singles player at Tokyo 2020.