Pune: Nikhil Kanetkar Badminton Academy’s (NKBA) Purva Barve reigned supreme, as she put on a stellar performance, defeating top seed Agnes Korosi from Hungary 22-20, 21-16 to clinch her first Women's Singles title at the Kawasaki Slovak Open 2024, which concluded at Bratislava, Slovakia.

In the semifinal clash, Purva got past Edith Urell from Sweden 21-14, 21-14. Earlier in the quarters, Purva defeated Gergana Pavlova from Bulgaria with the score reading 21-8, 21-10.

Speaking after clinching the title, Purva said “Winning the Slovak Open 2024 is definitely a nice start to the coming season. Last two months I worked really hard to improve my fitness levels and tried to become mentally stronger. All that training really helped me win this title and I couldn’t be happier!”

“I want to thank Nikhil sir, Mayank dada, Kranti bhaiya and the whole of NKBA team, my trainer Mahendra Gokhale sir for always pushing me to do my best and especially my family for always supporting me and cheering me on. I am so grateful to have such an amazing support system,” Purva added.

Speaking about her performance at the Kawasaki Slovak Open 2024, Nikhil Kanetkar said “Purva has been with us from day one of the Academy and it gives me great pleasure to see how she has grown as a player over the years. Even though this is her first Senior International Title, I am sure there are more to come. This win will give her the confidence to do better and better.”

Results:

Final: Purva Barve bt 1- Agnes Korosi 22-20, 21-16.

Semifinal: Purva Barve bt Edith Urell 21-14, 21-14.

Quarterfinal: Purva Barve bt Gergana Pavlova 21-8, 21-10.