I didn’t play my best, I could’ve done better, says Saina Nehwal

Saina Nehwal settled for the silver after going down 16-21 19-21 to her numero uno nemesis from Spain, Carolina Marin. (Source: AP)

Indian ace Saina Nehwal on Sunday said she lacked patience and committed to many errors, which dashed her dreams of winning the gold medal at the prestigious Badminton World Championships in Jakarta.

World number 2 Saina settled for the silver after going down 16-21 19-21 to her numero uno nemesis from Spain, Carolina Marin.

“Today I didn’t play my best, I could’ve done better. Too many mistakes in first game. In the second, I had a lead, but points went by very quickly and within no time she was level,” Saina said after losing to the All England champion in the title clash.

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“I could’ve been more patient then during those 4-5 points. I had no problems with fitness. Final is more mental than physical. I made one silly error in the second game during a crucial moment.

“In the second set, I was on the slower side. I was trying to make rallies happen but the points went very quickly,” she added.

Saina felt the experience of playing in the final helped defending champion Marin as she could play more freely.

“When you have experience of playing a World Cup final, it’s easier. She was more free and not thinking of winning or losing,” she said.

Marin said, “I feel more happy this time compared to last time. This was more difficult. I had a foot injury last month, I thought I couldn’t play. I started playing two weeks ago, just wanted to enjoy the tournament.

“I just didn’t want to make mistakes when I was down in the second game. She was more tired than me. I just kept thinking of each point, just wanted to enjoy the final and the crowd,” she said.

Marin also thanked the supporters for rooting for her.

“Today I felt I was playing at home. Thanks to Indonesia for supporting me,” she said.