The badminton world mourns and celebrates as Saina Nehwal retires, her career a testament to perseverance amid injuries. Cricket superstar Virat Kohli led tributes, hailing her as India’s pride for revolutionizing the sport.
On X, Kohli posted: ‘Saina Nehwal, kudos to your magnificent career. You put Indian badminton on the world stage. Wishing you happiness, satisfaction, and a wonderful post-retirement life. Proud of you, India.’
PV Sindhu, whom Saina mentored indirectly through her success, wrote: ‘Congratulations on retirement, Saina. Thank you for your gifts to Indian badminton. Best wishes for peace and joy in the next stage.’
Yuvraj Singh chimed in: ‘Superb playing, Saina. Congrats on a stellar career. You propelled Indian badminton and inspired a generation. Good luck for the future.’
Explaining her retirement, Saina detailed the injury battle: extreme training regimens clashed with deteriorating knees – arthritis, ruined cartilage, constant swelling after short sessions. ‘It was time after talking to family and coaches,’ she said.
From Hisar’s courts to global glory, Saina scripted history: 2008 Junior Worlds gold, Beijing Olympics quarters, 2009 Super Series breakthrough, 2010 Commonwealth champion, 2012 Olympic bronze, 2015 world No. 1 (first Indian woman), and Worlds final. These feats earned her Padma awards, Khel Ratna, and eternal respect.
Saina’s departure leaves a void, but her pioneering spirit has built a robust foundation for Indian badminton’s continued rise on international arenas.