Saina, a medal prospect in Tokyo Olympics: Pullela Gopichand

Though there were some differences between the ace badminton player Saina Nehwal and her coach Pullela Gopichand in the past, the latter, however, hoped that the Saina will definitely win the medal in Tokyo Olympics with better health and fitness.

"With no great improvement in fitness, a 10 percent improvement in her present state will definitely make her grab the medal. With better health and fitness, Saina Nehwal is a medal prospect and she has the ability to defeat the best players in the world," said Gopichand.

"To get into the Olympics, the first priority is to get qualified. I believe that each member of the team who goes to the Olympics will definitely have a chance to win a medal. While Sindhu is also a medal prospect in women's singles, Sai Praneeth is doing well in World Championship," he added.

Saina Nehwal who is presently ranking 22nd has to be placed within the top 16 by the end of the qualification period that comes in April to get a place in Indian contingent going to Tokyo.