Pranati, India's only gymnast selected for Asiad, left home for gymnastics
Indian gymnast Pranati Nayak is preparing for her fourth Asian Games, marking a significant milestone in her career. Despite injuries and setbacks, she remains the sole Indian gymnast selected for the 2026 event.
Why it matters
The story highlights the personal and professional challenges faced by elite athletes in niche sports within India.
NEW DELHI: There are moments in an athlete's career when winning a medal is no longer the only measure of success. For Pranati Nayak, simply continuing to stand on the gymnastics floor has become part of the journey.The 31-year-old from West Bengal is preparing for her fourth Asian Games, a remarkable milestone in a career that has taken her from leaving her family behind as a young girl to representing India at the Olympics. She is also the lone Indian gymnast selected for the 2026 Asian Games, where she will compete in the women's vault and all-around events.Her journey began with a difficult choice. Pursuing gymnastics meant moving away from home and family at a young age of eight.
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