Meet Diksha Dagar, India's dazzling star on the greens and a true example of where grace and precision meet in the game of golf. Despite being young and relatively new to the professional circuit, Diksha Dagar has already made a name for herself with her strong performances and determination. Having competed in the Olympics before, she is now getting ready for her second appearance, aiming to impress with her skill and finesse on the golf courses of the Paris Olympics 2024.
Securing a spot in the Olympics is tough business, especially with only a handful of slots up for grabs per country. The Indian Golf Union takes charge of the selection process, keeping a close eye on the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR). To make the cut, players have to crack the top 60 globally. Diksha Dagar's ranking of 138 shows she's making strides in the sport, earning her some well-deserved recognition.
Dagar, who is poised to represent the country in the 2024 Olympics in Paris, sat down with SheThePeople and shared her incredible journey from the early days of balancing education with her love for golf, and her empowering vision for women in golf.
The choice to dedicate herself entirely to the sport was a tough one, but it's a decision she wholeheartedly embraces, representing her country on international platforms with pride. She spoke passionately about the need for government support in terms of funds and facilities for young girls aspiring to excel in golf. She champions equality, highlighting disparities in prize money and opportunities compared to their male counterparts.
Taking Off With Determination
Dagar's journey began with a left-handed swing that spoke volumes of her aggressive and fearless approach to golf. This trailblazer hails from a family that breathes golf, with her brother, Yogesh, also hearing impaired, walking the same path in age-group events. At just twenty-two years old, Diksha boasts a gold medal from the Deaflympics and a stint at the Tokyo Olympics under her belt. Now, she's charging ahead in the race to secure her place in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
A Star In The Making
With two LET wins, including the prestigious Tipsport Czech Ladies Open, and an impressive record of six Top-10 finishes, Diksha Dagar is crafting a legacy in Indian women's golf. Her journey has the potential to make her the first Indian woman golfer to clinch top honours on the LET's Order of Merit.
Diksha's achievements don't end on the golf course. She's also a World Deaf Championship winner, represented India at the 2018 Asian Games, won the 2018 Singapore Amateur title, and even triumphed in a Pro event on the Indian domestic Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour.
Breaking Boundaries And Making History
Diksha's story is one of perseverance and passion. In 2021, she made history by becoming the first golfer to compete in both the Deaflympics and the Olympic Games, qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics at the last moment. Turning professional in early 2019, Diksha swiftly secured a victory at the Investec South Africa Women's Open. In 2021, she was part of the victorious team at the Aramco Team Series London, both events being integral parts of the Ladies European Tour. Even while she was an amateur, she triumphed multiple times on the Hero Women's Pro Circuit in India
Overcoming Adversity
Diksha's journey is marked by resilience and determination, epitomizing her spirit of never giving up. Born with a hearing impairment, she began wearing hearing aids at just six years old. Yet, this obstacle only fueled her passion for golf and her resolve to shatter stereotypes.
From Setbacks to Comebacks
Diksha's path hasn't been without its challenges. The pandemic-induced low phase saw her game struggle to deliver results. But she focused on her fitness and learned that patience and hard work are her strongest assets.
She reflected on her journey, emphasising that, "In the game of life, you don't get everything handed to you." Being a left-handed golfer presented its challenges, including the lack of specialized equipment in India. Diksha's determination led her to source her clubs from the USA, eliminating any barriers between her and the game she loves.
She credited advice from Scotland for her holistic approach to the game and highlighted the role of loved ones and old friends in providing much-needed positivity and support.
Diksha Dagar also draws inspiration and support from her father, Colonel Narinder Dagar, who has been a constant presence, guiding her every step of the way.
From accompanying me on the course before matches to carrying my kit bag, overseeing my fitness regimen, and providing motivational guidance, my father has been her rock.
Golf: The Catalyst for Transformation
Before golf entered her life, Diksha described herself as introverted and detached from the world, struggling with communication skills. But golf transformed her, boosting her confidence. She used the internet as her teacher to enhance her skills and leveraged social media to reconnect with friends who stood by her on and off the golf course.
Diksha believes that pressure is her ally, pushing her to outshine and inspiring her preparations.
My journey to the 2024 Olympics is not about instant success, it's a process of growth and learning. I'm determined to rework my form, knowing that every challenge is an opportunity for greatness.
Dagar's Vision for Golf in India
Diksha's journey began at the Hero Women’s Indian Open in 2016 when she was still an amateur, and that very year, she was crowned the best amateur. Her remarkable journey continued with a strong T21 finish at this year’s AIG Women’s Open.
As the Hero Women’s Indian Open 2023 unfolded, we had an exclusive conversation with Diksha, providing a unique glimpse into her perspective on the sport and its contrasting status in India and Europe.
In Europe, there's an abundance of golf courses, with most players being long hitters. Golf is widely recognized among the general population. However, the situation in India is markedly different. The sport struggles with limited facilities, and there are three distinct categories of players - the affluent, individuals with an army officer background, and even caddies who play the game.
Diksha expressed a genuine desire for golf to gain immense popularity in India and believed that with increased exposure, sponsorship, financial support, and media coverage, it has the potential to thrive and witness a surge in participation.
Furthermore, Diksha emphasised the need for a shift in mindset when it comes to female representation in sports in India. She acknowledged that “in many Indian families, education is often prioritised over sports.”
To increase female representation in the field, she called for a transformation in societal perceptions. The change in mindset, combined with support from the government and sponsors, is crucial. She stressed the necessity for organising initiatives that offer kids opportunities to engage in sports and challenge conventions.
As Diksha Dagar represents India on the international stage, she carries with her not just a golf club but also the hopes and dreams of countless young girls who dare to defy conventions and pursue their passions. She's not just aiming for Olympic gold; she's a symbol of empowerment, proving that with determination, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
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