Anirban Lahiri on Olympics qualification: It was a big surprise

Anirban Lahiri. Pic/Getty Images

Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri says he wasn't expecting to qualify for the Olympics given his below-par performance this year but now wants to make it count by returning with a medal from the Tokyo Games.

Lahiri on Tuesday made the cut for the Olympics at the 60th spot, the last quota available as per the International Golf Federation rankings. "It was a big surprise, I wasn't expecting it," said Lahiri, who is preparing for this week's PGA Tour stop at the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands, Connecticut.

‘It's a gift'

"Even though I've earned it, I don't feel like I've really earned it as I know how far below my potential I've played this year. It's a gift and an opportunity, so why would I throw it away."

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India was eligible for one spot and Lahiri qualified being the highest-placed golfer from the country at the 340th position. "I know what it is to be an Olympian as I've done it before [in Rio] and I don't want to be just an Olympian. I want to win a medal, I want to do something that makes a difference," said Lahiri, 33.

Medal possible

"I know winning a PGA Tour event will do that but winning a medal would even do more. I do have a certain responsibility towards the game and my country."
The former Asian No. 1 finished a lowly 57th in Rio while playing with an injury. But recently, there have been signs of some good form returning following a recent T-25 finish at the Palmetto Championship at Congaree. That has made him optimistic of his chances at the Olympics to be held at the Kasumigaseki Country Club from July 29 to August 1.

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Grateful for support

"There's also a huge aspect for me personally that comes from everything that I've gotten from the sport and all the love and support I've got from my country. I'm thrilled and excited. It is definitely something I wanted to do," said Lahiri.

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