Bengaluru's Ashwini Ponnappa bids farewell to her Olympic career after participating in the Paris Olympics 2024. As a three-time Olympian, she acknowledges the immense pressure and expectations faced by athletes, emphasizing the need for preparation for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Her retirement signifies a significant moment for Indian badminton and reflects her longstanding representation of India on the international stage for over fifteen years.Ashwini notes her empathy for Vinesh, an athlete who worked hard to reach the final. She suggests staying away from social media to maintain mental strength and avoid unnecessary criticism during international events like the Olympics. Ashwini emphasizes the importance of managing external pressures and funding for athletes, highlighting the need to focus on building both confidence and skill. She acknowledges the pressure athletes face during the Olympics and emphasizes the importance of managing both hope and expectations.