Picture Credit: Twitter/@TokyoOlympics
It has undoubtedly been a memorable Olympics for Indian contingent in Tokyo. Despite a few setbacks in shooting and boxing, India have already clinched 5 medals and are on cusp of equaling their record medal tally of 6 which they achieved at London 2012. Surprisingly, India find themselves in a position to break that record going into Day 15 of the Summer Games.
With Neeraj Chopra in contention to secure medal on Saturday, there is another athlete who is very well placed to clinch an unlikely Olympic medal against all odds. India women golfer Aditi Ashok has emerged as the surprise package in Tokyo as she currently finds herself in second position in women's individual event after three rounds in women's individual golf event.
Aditi impresses in Round 3 at Tokyo 2020
The 23-year-old golfer came into Day 3 with a total of 9-under. However, it must be noted that Aditi had an impressive first two rounds at Rio 2016 as well but had eventually stumbled later to finish at 41st position. With more experience behind her back, she kept her nerves and fired five birdies and two bogeys in third round.
Aditi registered a three-under 67 on Friday and ended the day at 12-under, ensuring a two-shot lead over four other competitors are tied at 10-under. This has been a fairytale story so far considering the fact that Aditi is ranked 200th in world rankings (as of August 2, 2021).
Aditi might have done enough to secure silver medal
After three fantastic rounds, Aditi Ashok finds herself in 2nd position with one round remaining. However, there is a very likely possibility that the tournament might have already ended on Friday. There are thunderstorms and rain expected on Saturday and Sunday (reserve day) at the event venue - Kasumigaseki Country Club in Tokyo - which has put a lot of doubts over the conduct of Round 4.
The athletes had already been informed that the tournament could eventually be a 54-hole one instead of 72 holes if weather halts play in Tokyo. This would mean that the final standings after round 3 will be considered for medal positions, which are as follows:
1. Nelly Korda (USA); 15-under
2. Aditi Ashok (India); 12-under
3. Lydia Ko (New Zealand); 10-under
3. Hannah Green (Australia); 10-under
3. Emily Pedersen (Denmark); 10-under
3. Mone Inami (Japan); 10-under
Aditi Ashok wants to play Round 4
While the fans would want rain to cancel the final round, Aditi Ashok wants to play as she is confident that she can continue performing well. Reflecting on the same on Friday, she said, "Golf is always 4-round tournaments and that's the fair way to judge 60 competitors. So, if we can play the fourth round, I'll more than welcome it. Maybe, if I have a great day, I will have a chance bettering the second position."
If the final round is eventually abandoned, Aditi has already clinched a silver medal at Tokyo 2020. However, if weather permits, the golfers will be back in action to play final 18 holes with the fourth round scheduled to begin on August 7 at IST 3 AM onwards. Aditi is on the cusp of entering the history books as she could become the first Indian golfer to clinch an Olympic medal.