Tulika Maan, a 25-year-old Indian judoka, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a continental quota for the upcoming Paris Olympics in the +78 kg category. Her journey to the Games has been a testament to her resilience and determination, especially after overcoming an injury in 2022 that had cast doubt on her Olympic aspirations.
Despite the setback, Maan, a Commonwealth Games silver medalist, persevered, and a crucial victory over Canada’s Portuondo Isasi in the round of 32 at the World Championships in Abu Dhabi last month propelled her into the Olympic ranking. Her fifth-place finishes in the Asian Games and Asian Championships also contributed significantly to her qualification.
Looking ahead to Paris, Maan is confident in her abilities and has set her sights on achieving a medal. “Looking at my training, I am hoping, I will make it to the bronze medal match at least if not the final. We are training for gold,” she told SAI Media. She acknowledges the challenge posed by China’s Su Xin, whom she considers her toughest competitor.
Maan’s journey to the Olympics is a testament to the unwavering support she has received through the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). “I have got a lot of assistance from TOPS,” she says. “A lot of us under TOPS get assistance to compete in events throughout the year to sustain our rankings. When the expenses are taken care of, we can compete without tension and can give our best.”
As Tulika Maan prepares to represent India in the Olympics, she joins a prestigious list of Indian women judokas who have competed at the Games. Her determination and commitment to the sport make her a strong contender for a medal in Paris, inspiring young athletes across the country.
