How did Sharath Kamal perform at Tokyo Olympics? A detailed look at the Indian table tennis star's performance at the previous Olympic Games

Sharath Kamal Achanta competing at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Kamal got off to a solid start and put up a strong fight against Ma Long of China in the men's singles at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium.

However, the Indian ultimately lost in five games to the three-time Olympic champion, in the third round. The Chinese player outclassed Kamal with scores of 11-7, 8-11, 13-11, 11-4, 11-4.

In the first game, Sharath Kamal showcased remarkable agility, corresponding to the opponent's pace through quick responses. However, Ma Long rapidly dominated the game and emerged victorious.

Kamal seized control in the second game, taking an 8-4 lead despite some netted returns from the Chinese player. The Indian was successful in maintaining his composure and eventually won the game and leveled the score.

In the third game, the 42-year-old managed to carry his momentum to take an early lead. However, his opponent staged a powerful performance and leveled the score. Both players experienced fluctuations in their returns but the Chinese player had the last laugh and ultimately won the game.

Meanwhile, in the following game, the Chinese player showcased his prowess and pushed the Indian towards the back of the table. Notably, the Indian made several mistakes which helped Ma Long to dominate the game. Kamal further failed to deal with Ma Long’s cross-court play and the latter convincingly won the game.

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A look at Sharath Kamal's stellar career

Sharath Kamal has earlier won gold medals in the men's singles and men's team event at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. He also won gold in the men's doubles event at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and gold in the men's team event at the 2018 edition of the tournament.

In addition, he clinched gold medals at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in the men's singles, men's doubles, and men's team events.

Sharath Kamal is the first ever Indian table tennis player to become a 10-time Senior National Champion. He achieved the feat breaching the record of Kamlesh Mehta who became National Champion eight times.