Saina Nehwal Finally Spoke About Her Retirement. 'I Can't Do It Anymore'

Earlier this week, badminton champion Saina Nehwal,a former world No. 1 and multiple international champion, announced her retirement, causing a stir in the sports community. The 35-year-old claims that she had been considering the choice for some time.

Saina Nehwal Finally Spoke On Her Retirement

"I have known this for a while, and conversations continued, but in the end, quitting was the wisest course of action.I eventually found it tough to ascend the steps. "I have to pay attention to my body," she says, adding, "I will obviously miss being active after playing for 25 years. There is always the option of coaching. It will take some time, but I want to give back to society.

Sainareports that her parents, husband Parupalli Kashyap, trainers, and doctors all remained by her side: "Everyone was really supportive." Some people were initially shocked and a little disappointed.But of all the people, I was the most disappointed. There is only so much you can do when your body is telling you to stop and heal.”

'I Will Miss Playing Tennis' - Saina

"I had known this for some time, and discussions went on, but ultimately, giving up was the best course of action. Eventually, climbing the steps became difficult for me."I have to pay attention to my body," she adds. "After 25 years of tennis,I will undoubtedly miss being active." Coaching is always a possibility.I want to give back to society, but it will take some time.

Saina Nehwal reports that her parents, husband Parupalli Kashyap, trainers, and doctors all remained by her side: "Everyone was really supportive." At first, some folks were taken aback and a little let down.However, I was the most let down of all. There is only so much you can do when your body is telling you to stop and heal.”

Saina's Divorce From Her Husband

In July of last year, Saina announced her divorce from Kashyap, expressing a desire for "peace, progress, and healing." But after a few weeks, the two said they were trying to make amends. She is now eager to see the world outside of competition.

Saina Nehwal's Career

• The influence of Saina Nehwal on Indian badminton goes well beyond rankings and medals. Saina became a trailblazer who brought badminton into the mainstream with her bold approach and unwavering aim at a time when the sport in India was still looking for steady worldwide prominence following the highs of Pullela Gopichand.

Saina Tackled Chinese Dominance

At the height of her career, Saina Nehwal stood up against the powerful Chinese badminton establishment, which had long dominated the women's sport.

She disproved the idea that Chinese dominance was unbeatable by competing against legends like Wang Yihan, Wang Xin, and Li Xuerui. Her All England title in 2015 and her rise to world No. 1 marked watershed moments, proving that an Indian shuttler could not only compete with the best but regularly beat them on the biggest stages.

Saina Nehwal's achievements also occurred during a time when Indian female athletes had less support, visibility, and confidence.Every one of her achievements, from the Olympic bronze medal in London in 2012 to regular podium finishes on the Super Series circuit, exceeded expectations. She forced the Indian badminton system to change in response to her accomplishments by bringing visibility, professionalism, and confidence to the sport.