Ashwini Ponnappa Slams Sports Ministry’s False Claims on Financial Aid

Indian badminton star Ashwini Ponnappa expressed shock over the Sports Ministry's claims of providing substantial financial support ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics. She criticized the ministry for claiming she received Rs 4.5 lakh under TOPS and Rs 1.48 crore under ACTC, despite her requests for a coach being denied and having to self-fund her trainer.

Ponnappa, who partnered with Tanisha Crasto for the Paris cycle, stated, "I don't mind not getting money, but it's ridiculous to claim I did." She clarified that the Rs 1.48 crore was likely spent on the entire national camp, not on her individually.

Despite her struggles, Ponnappa acknowledged the ministry's past support but emphasized that recent claims of financial assistance were inaccurate. Competing in her third Olympics, she and Crasto couldn't advance beyond the group stage, leaving Ponnappa disheartened but resolute in addressing the false claims.