“Our Govt Has To Pay Attention To It..”, Says India First-Ever Top 10 Taekwondo Athlete Rupa On Lack Of Popularity Of Game

January 7, 2025: Rupa Bayor, the first Indian Taekwondo player to break into the top 10 of the World Poomsae Rankings, has opened up about her inspiring journey and the challenges she faced while pursuing her passion for Taekwondo. The 23-year-old athlete, who reached the top 10 rankings in October 2024, also won India’s first medal at the 8th Asian Taekwondo Championships last year, taking home a gold medal at the national team trials.

Rupa expressed her gratitude for the support she has received throughout her career. “I would like to thank everyone who supported me. It was not my effort alone and it was not easy. I would like to thank my coach and the Welspun Super Sports Women’s Program, who have also been there for me,” she said.

Rupa’s journey into the world of Taekwondo began in 2015 when she was recommended by her uncle, a karate master, to take up the sport. “I learnt Karate from my uncle, and he suggested I try Taekwondo. At the time, I didn’t even know what Taekwondo was. It wasn’t very popular in India, and we focus more on Karate. However, Taekwondo is an Olympic sport, and I saw it as a better route for me,” Rupa shared.

Despite starting the sport only in 2015, Rupa quickly made a name for herself, turning professional in 2021 and achieving significant international success. She went on to win a silver at the Asian Open in Indonesia and had a strong run at the World Championships, even though she was knocked out in the pre-quarterfinals.

While celebrating her accomplishments, Rupa acknowledged the challenges faced by Taekwondo players in India, especially in terms of financial support and infrastructure. She highlighted the importance of leadership to address these issues. “Taekwondo, despite being an Olympic sport, still lags behind in terms of attention and support from the government. Sports like badminton and boxing are far more advanced. Our federation faces several challenges, and the government has not been able to provide sufficient funding or resources,” she noted.

Rupa emphasized the need for proper sponsorship, financial backing, and training facilities to help Indian Taekwondo players reach their potential. “If my speaking could spark change, it would be great. Players are not able to compete unless they pay for tournaments like the nationals themselves. We need proper tracksuits, sponsorships, and government funding for the federation. The government must pay attention to our sport if we are to win medals and improve,” she added.

Looking ahead, Rupa has set her sights on 2026, a year that will be crucial for her career as it will feature the Asian Championships, World Championships, and the Asian Games. “2026 is my key focus year. The Asian Championships, World Championships, and Asian Games are all taking place, and I know I have areas of improvement. I will train harder to address those shortcomings and work towards qualifying for the Asian Games and the Olympics,” Rupa concluded.

Rupa’s calls for better infrastructure and government attention reflect the struggles faced by many athletes in less popular sports in India. As she continues to rise through the ranks, it’s clear that the Taekwondo community in India hopes for the government to take her advice to heart and support the athletes who could one day bring glory to the country on the international stage.