Badminton queen Saina Nehwal has hung up her racket, marking the end of an era for Indian sports. Virat Kohli, PV Sindhu, and Yuvraj Singh led the chorus of admiration for her trailblazing journey plagued by injuries.
Kohli’s message on X was emotional: ‘Congratulations on your brilliant career, Saina. You’ve earned Indian badminton global respect. Here’s to a blissful retirement – India salutes you.’
Double Olympic medalist Sindhu added, ‘Best wishes, Saina. Grateful for your dedication to Indian badminton. May this new phase bring you joy and serenity.’
Yuvraj lauded her influence: ‘Played brilliantly, Saina. Kudos for an incredible career that advanced Indian badminton and motivated millions. All the best ahead.’
Injuries, especially chronic knee problems including arthritis and cartilage damage, forced Saina out after years away from the court. ‘You train 8-9 hours to be the best, but my knees failed after an hour. Swelling made it impossible. After family and coach discussions, retirement was the only option,’ she explained.
Saina’s resume is legendary: First Indian woman in Olympic badminton quarters (Beijing 2008), Junior World Champion same year, inaugural Indian Super Series victor (Indonesia Open 2009), Commonwealth gold, world No. 1 in 2015, and BWF Worlds finalist. Her London 2012 bronze opened doors for India in the sport.
Honored with India’s highest sporting accolades – Arjuna, Khel Ratna, Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan – Saina transformed badminton from niche to powerhouse status. Her grit and achievements will inspire generations, ensuring her legacy shines bright beyond the court.