Kohima: Rising badminton star Kimkim Khongsai secured the Under-15 championship title at the Yonex-Sunrise All India Sub-Junior National Ranking Badminton Tournament in Hyderabad. Held at the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, the tournament is a major platform for young talent in India.
Khongsai, who hails from Kangpokpi district, competed representing Nagaland. She obtained an official No Objection Certificate from the Badminton Association of Manipur after ongoing ethnic conflict in her home state made it impossible for her to remain in Imphal. Despite these obstacles, she defeated several top-ranked competitors to claim her victory.
The young athlete also earned a second national title at the event. Partnering with Liansangpuia, she won the Under-15 Mixed Doubles championship after the fourth-seeded pair upset higher-ranked opponents throughout the tournament.
Known by many as the Saina Nehwal of Kangpokpi, Khongsai has shown consistent growth over the past year. Her recent success follows her recognition as the Most Amazing Player of the Tournament at the North East Zonal Championships. Community leaders and sports fans have praised her performance, describing her journey as a reflection of her resilience. Observers are now identifying her as one of the country's most promising players, with supporters stating, Her journey from conflict-hit Manipur to the top of the national rankings reflects extraordinary resilience, determination and dedication.
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