India’s Yash Fadte did the country proud by winning the prestigious French Junior Open. The 18-year-old Yash defeated second seed and Czech Republic No.1 ranked Marek Panachek in four games pulling off a sensational 10-12, 11-5, 11-4 and 11-5 win at Lille, France on Sunday.
The talented Goan lad, who regularly practices at the Cricket of India courts in Mumbai, was overjoyed about his success.
“I was nervous and exhausted after some difficult games earlier in the championship. But, after having travelled so far, I was determined not to let go of this opportunity. I am happy to achieve this success,” said Yash.
Earlier, in the pre-quarterfinals, Yash beat Swiss No. 2 Lian Keeling 3-0 (11-4,11-2, 11-1).
The Indian easily defeated France No.2 Baptiste Bouin in straight games 3-0 (11-4, 11-5 and 12-10) in the quarter-finals. In the semi-finals, Yash faced off against France No.1 Toufik Mekhalfi and managed to pull through, winning in five games, 3-2 (9-11,11-6, 7-11, 11-8 and 11-9) in a thrilling 75-minute match.
Yash stated that his next target is winning the Junior World Championship.
“My ultimate aim is to win the Junior World Championship and I am determined to work hard and to overcome all the obstacles so that I can achieve my goal. This win has boosted my confidence and there is no looking back now,” the talent player further said.
The performance by the sports star is an addition to the list of achievements by Maharashtra sports fraternity. Earlier this week, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray had honoured the top sports personalities from the state with the Shiv Chhatrapati Award.
The awards were given to athletes in five categories and 63 honours have been awarded. The Shiv Chhatrapati Rajya Puraskar is revered as the highest level of award in the field of sports in Maharashtra. The winners of the year 2018/19 were honoured by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Saturday, February 22.
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