Paris Olympics bronze medallist shooter Swapnil Kusale expressed his deep gratitude towards PM Modi for his support, and revealed how he gleaned positive energy and motivation from his call.
In an exclusive interaction with IANS on Saturday, Kusale recalled PM's words that he shared just after he won a medal in the men's 50m Rifle 3 Positions in Paris earlier this month. Kusale was particularly surprised by PM Modi's attention to detail.
"I felt quite positive energy and motivated after talking to PM Modi. When I received his call, he greeted me in Marathi, and I felt very good after listening to him. He knows every athlete and watches every athlete very closely and takes care of everyone's requirements. I was really shocked when he observed me during our visit to PM's house before the Games," Kusale told IANS in an exclusive interaction on Saturday.
The rifleman also spoke about his dedication to shooting, equating it to cricket legend M.S. Dhoni.
"I don't like comparing players, but M.S. Dhoni is a legend. He has made our country proud in cricket," said Kusale. "After securing a job in the Railways, Dhoni focused more on cricket than his job. The same is true for me, I am more inclined towards shooting than my railway job."
Kusale explained that his love for shooting extends beyond work commitment. "I can't stay home off days. So, I go to the shooting range for practice. I like staying there even if I'm not shooting."
He praised the support of his parents in fulfilling his dream of pursuing the sport when enquired about family support. Kusale lives in Pune alone, while his family is settled in Kolhapur city; they have always motivated him to excel in the sport and never let anything hamper the shooting practice.
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