Mathias Boe, the coach of India’s top-seeded badminton doubles pair Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, has announced his retirement from coaching after their early exit from the Paris Olympics. Boe, who won a silver medal at the London Olympics, shared his decision on Saturday, stating that his coaching days have come to an end. He expressed his exhaustion and the emotional toll of coaching, stating that he has spent too much time in a badminton hall and the stress has taken its toll. “I’m a tired old man,” the 44-year-old Dane wrote on his Instagram account.
Boe comforted Shetty and Rankireddy, who were considered strong favorites to win the men’s doubles in Paris. He acknowledged their disappointment, stating, “I know the feeling all too well myself. Pushing yourself to the limit every day, to be in the best shape of your life, and then things don’t go as you would have hoped for.” He further emphasized their dedication and hard work during the Olympics, stating, “I know you guys are gutted, I know how much you wanted to bring a medal back to India, but this time it wasn’t meant to be.” Despite their failure to secure a medal, Boe stated that he is departing the role as a satisfied man.
Boe commended Shetty and Rankireddy’s commitment, highlighting their unwavering dedication and passion. “You have everything to be proud of, how hard you have worked in this Olympics camp, battling injuries, even taken injections to reduce the pain, that is dedication, that is passion and that is a lot of Heart.” Boe’s decision marks the end of an era for the Indian badminton duo, who have been guided by his expertise since before the Tokyo Olympics. While their Paris Olympics campaign ended prematurely, Boe’s words offer a testament to their dedication and the journey they have undertaken together.
