Rooting for Brazil because of Neymar

When I was young, I remember my whole family used to sit together in front of the television and watch the World Cup. Everyone had their favourite team. I enjoyed myself as my entire family used to be so involved in it. It was great fun. I kind of like the French team because they have good skills with ball. I also remember the Zindane's headbutt on Marco Materazzi during the Italy-France final of the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Also, my father is a French fan because of Zinedine Zidane.

I've never followed any footballer as such, but I do admire players who score amazing goals. At times, it's hard to believe that they can score from such a distance and with such agility. They make the impossible look easy.

It is only recently that I've started watching the sport in a stadium. I went for a couple of I-League matches played in Bangalore. It was awesome. But when it comes to World Cup, you know something serious is about to happen and hence, the intensity increases. Everyone talks about the tournament across the world.

As a kid, I have played football with my brother but then I had an accident and I could not. And when you get into any sport, you have to ensure you don't get injured.

This time I'll be rooting for the hosts Brazil because I am a Neymar fan. He is not only good-looking, but also smart on the field. This World Cup, I'll say loudly, "Go Brazil Go!"

—Ashwini Ponnappa is an Indian badminton player

—She spoke to Wriddhaayan Bhattacharyya