Tokyo Olympics 2020: ‘You gave your best’, PM Narendra Modi tells CA Bhavani Devi after fencer’s historic run ends at Games

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday offered encouragement to CA Bhavani Devi, India’s first ever fencer in the Olympics who lost to the world number three, saying she gave her best and this is all that counts. Following her loss, Devi had tweeted that she did her level best but could not win. “I am sorry,” she said and expressed thanks to Modi among others for their support. The prime minister replied, “You gave your best and that is all that counts. Wins and losses are a part of life. India is very proud of your contributions. You are an inspiration for our citizens.”

Big Day 🤺
It was Excitement & Emotional.
I won the First Match 15/3 against Nadia Azizi and become the First INDIAN Fencing Player to win a Match at Olympic but 2nd Match I lost 7/15 against world top 3 player Manon Brunet. I did my level best but couldn't win.
I am sorry 🙏 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/TNTtw7oLgO

— C A Bhavani Devi (@IamBhavaniDevi) July 26, 2021

Replying to Modi’s tweet, Devi said, “When ur inspiration icon calls u an inspiration, what better day i can ask for?” She said Modi’s words motivated her and that he stood by her even though she lost the match. This gesture and leadership has given her boost and confidence to work hard and win upcoming matches for India, she added. The 27-year-old began her campaign with a confident 15-3 win against Tunisia’s Nadia Ben Azizi but bumped into Rio Olympics semi-finalist Frenchwoman Brunet in the next round, which she lost 7-15.