Gus Ary retweetledi
Gregoria Mariska Tunjung was 6/15 down in the deciding game in the first of the 2 #Olympic women’s singles semi-finals at #Paris2024. Given the unique format at the Games where the 2 losing semi-finalists have to play-off for the Bronze medal, it would have been easy to resign herself to defeat, with the thought of the Bronze medal match in the back of her mind (a match which didn’t happen due to catastrophic knee injury to Carolina Marin in the second semi-final).
But Gregoria’s mindset and integrity didn’t allow for such thoughts. She continued to battle for every point and in doing so displayed her full repertoire of delightful technical skills. With her trademark easy relaxed hitting motion and deception, she time and again sent An Se Young in the wrong direction with disguised slices, pushes to the back of the court, and exquisite net shots. Tunjung won 10 of the last 16 points, which reflected her fighting spirit, although An Se Young eventually won 21/16 in that deciding game.
Despite the disappointment at her loss, Tunjung greeted her opponent with a smile and a genuine congratulatory embrace in a heartwarming display of good sportsmanship.
That semi-final signalled a possible future great rivalry with An Se Young, and showcased Tunjung’s fighting spirit, her abundant skills and her exemplary sportsmanship. A huge talent and a lovely personality. A young player with a seemingly very bright future.
Which is why it’s so distressing to hear that the Olympic Bronze medallist’s ongoing (and debilitating) vestibular illness has forced her to take the major, yet courageous decision to resign from the security and safety-net of the national federation, PBSI, to concentrate on her recovery and health.
I’m not sure whether this move indicates the possibility that Gregoria may never return to the competition court. But what I am absolutely certain about is that although I (like many) miss watching her elegant, deceptive play, her health and therefore the ability to enjoy life to the full is of paramount importance.
Sending all good wishes for a full recovery Gregoria. And future health and happiness with or without #badminton.
📷 @badmintonphoto
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