I played with a heavily strapped knee: Saina

After a shocking exit from the Rio Olympics, Saina Nehwal cited inflammation in her right knee as the reason for her restricted movement on court.

The world No 5 lost her second group league encounter 18-21, 19-21 to Ukraine's world No 61 Maria Ulitina and crashed out of the competition.

"I had a knee pain and could not give my best. It was heavily strapped, and I tried my best. My movements were not smooth and were painful. It's a heartbreaking loss. I also feel very bad about it," lamented Saina.

"It (the injury) happened just before the Olympics, about one-and-a-half weeks back. It happened during training and got aggravated after coming here," she added.

Saina agreed that she was not able to move well but credited her opponent for playing well.

"She played better but I was not able to move on the court. I tried for improvement but was not successful."

• The Rio Olympics, on Rediff.com

Image: Saina Nehwal

Photograph: Warren Little/Getty Images for Falcon