In army, I went to Kashmir and did well, which was a challenge. In sports, I went to Olympics at a time when no one believed that we can actually win. Coming into politics was also a challenge as I wanted to push the youth to achieve gold in various fields of life.

There is always anxiety before a competition and it was no different for me today. It was only in the third round, with about 40 targets left, that I realised I could match the world record score.

You can't say what the outcome of a competition is going to be, so now I am ready to accept any result that comes my way, if I give my best shot.

In a democratic set-up, people who are being governed should also be a part of the governing system. They should be drafted into the governance.

I was improving in the sport at age 10, 11, when I was getting my triple jumps - and it was suddenly very isolating. I was doing really well in competitions, and it felt strange because people that were my friends became almost jealous.

If you are a loser in this sport, you are a loser also in life.

I'm a huge NBA fan and watch many games each year. Following any sport is kind of bringing us back to our tribal roots.

As far as fitness is concerned, you have to enjoy it, do good exercises, and integrate them into your tennis practice. The preparation for the season is as crucial as doing good blocks when switching from one surface to another.