Olympic bronze medallist Sushil Kumar said wrestling will finally get the recognition it deserves when he receives the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award, country's highest sports honour, from president Pratibha Patil here tomorrow.
In an unprecedented move, the government this year decided to confer Khel Ratna on three sportspersons -- woman boxer MC Marykom, Beijing bronze medallist boxer Vijender Singh and Sushil.
Sushil said the recognition would be a huge fillip for wrestling in India and the country can look forward to more medals in the future.
"I am delighted. It's an honour and great moment of pride to receive Khel Ratna award from the president," Sushil said.
"With this award, I can say that the game has finally found its rightful place in the country and I am confident that we will bring more medals for the country in future."
Sushil dedicated his achievement to his parents and coach Satpal, who will receive the Dronacharya award at the same ceremony.
"I owe this award to my parents and coach Satpalji who have done a wonderful job all these years in motivating and inspiring me to attain greater heights," he said.
The Delhi grappler, who has been suffering from low blood pressure and subsequent fever for quite some time, said the thought of getting Khel Ratna from the president has infused energy into him.
"I was having low blood pressure and then fever due to some rigorous practice sessions at the
akhada. I was not feeling well for the last few days but now I have fully recovered and will attend the ceremony," he said.
He said ever since the announcement of the award, his phone has not stopped ringing and wishes are still pouring in.
"I am overwhelmed with the response. It feels great from inside," he said.
Terming the preparations for the upcoming World Wrestling Championship in Denmark as "excellent", Sushil said he and fellow grapplers were raring to go.
"All the players are fit and fine and ready to give all out efforts to keep the Indian tri-colour flying high," he said.
