Kohima, Aug 20: Dimapur Airport witnessed a heartwarming reception as Zhakuo Seyie, the Badminton sensation, arrived home after securing a silver medal at the APACS Kazakhstan Future Series 2023 Badminton Championship, held in Kazakhstan. Seyie’s achievement at this prestigious event has not only made his family and friends proud but also the entire nation.
The APACS Kazakhstan Future Series 2023, a tournament sanctioned by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and Badminton Asia (BA), took place in Kazakhstan from May 29 to June 3. Seyie’s remarkable performance in the Men’s Open Category earned him a well-deserved silver medal.
In a heartwarming gesture, Seyie acknowledged that his journey to success was paved by the unwavering love and support of his family and friends. He also expressed his profound gratitude for the blessings received from God, recognizing the role of faith in his remarkable journey.
Seyie’s achievement on the international stage is a matter of immense pride for the nation. His dedication and passion for badminton have been exemplary. However, his journey has not been without its challenges, particularly the lack of significant sponsorship or support from the state government.
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The badminton prodigy hails from Nagaland and holds the 50th position in the Badminton Association of India (BAI) rankings. To participate in the APACS Kazakhstan Future Series 2023, Seyie had to meet the criterion of a national-level ranking, a testament to his prowess in the sport.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Seyie shared his honor in representing the country on the international stage. He emphasized the significance of the opportunity and the pride he felt in carrying the national flag.
However, Seyie also lamented the absence of substantial support from the state government, which is a common concern faced by many aspiring athletes in India. Despite being the state champion in Nagaland, Seyie had to seek a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to pursue his badminton career in Maharashtra.
In Maharashtra, Seyie has achieved significant success and currently holds the 3rd position in the state rankings after participating in the Maharashtra State Tournament. His move to Maharashtra was strategic, as it provided him with increased opportunities, exposure to international competitions, and a supportive environment for honing his skills.
While Seyie acknowledges the importance of optimism, he also maintains a sense of realism when discussing the state of badminton in Nagaland. Despite having numerous badminton stadiums, he pointed out several challenges, including the need for mental clarity, robust support systems, and physical conditioning.
Seyie also addressed the issue of limited investment in the sport, which often discourages aspiring players from pursuing badminton as a serious individual endeavor. Badminton enjoys immense popularity in Nagaland, and Seyie expressed his hope that his success would inspire more players to represent both the state and the nation on the international stage.
Zhakuo Seyie’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and passion in overcoming challenges. His silver medal win is not just a personal achievement but a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country. It highlights the need for greater support and investment in sports at the grassroots level to nurture and promote talent.
