I am tough on myself: Ashwini Ponnappa

Badminton player Ashwini Ponnappa may have made Hyderabad her home these past three years, but she is still a self-proclaimed Bangalorean at heart. And that becomes evident when she says, "I miss Bangalore, especially the weather." But before we ask her about the move, she adds excitedly, "I'm moving back to the city this August."
But the excitement of coming back home apart, what's really keeping the young shuttler busy is training with her doubles partner Jwala Gutta for the London Olympics.Ashwini says that the excitement has still not sunk in. And the pair, which is fast turning into a formidable doubles combination, is confident of winning a medal for the country.
"I was ecstatic when I heard the official announcement of our qualification and since then, Jwala and I've been preparing hard. Though we've played in several international tourneys, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us. We promise to put up a good show," says Ashwini.
While preparations are on in full swing, Ashwini says that the pressure doesn't get to her. "I realize the importance of this tournament, but there is no pressure on me. I am clear about what I intend to do and confident about my performance," she says.
But the shuttler admits that she is impatient. She says, "Some of the important qualities a badminton player should have is to stay calm and be patient. That's one area I need to work on. My game gets affected because of this. I get emotional easily when I lose a game. On the other hand, I am tough on myself too. But Jwala calms me down."
Meanwhile, Ashwini's figure, poise and good looks also mean that she gets offers to walk the ramp. Will she take up modelling as a career? "I have been receiving offers for modeling, but I haven't given it serious thought. It does seem like fun. I wouldn't mind giving it a shot," she says.
Things you didn't know about Ashwini
I am interested in interior design. I might take it up seriously some day.
I am petrified of insects, and that includes butterflies.
I am told that my body language is rather stiff and lacks grace. I want to learn dance to rectify that.
I love watching television and my latest addiction is crime sitcoms. I love investigative series too.
I unwind by playing table tennis with my dad and occasionally visit Goa with my friends.