Seasoned Indian badminton player HS Prannoy has announced a temporary break from the sport to focus on his recovery from chikungunya. The 32-year-old, known for his accomplishments including a 2022 Thomas Cup title and bronze medals at the World and Asian Games, has been battling the effects of the mosquito-borne viral disease since just before the Paris Olympics.
Chikungunya, characterized by severe joint pain, has significantly impacted Prannoy’s performance. He expressed on X (formerly Twitter), “Unfortunately, the battle with chikungunya has taken a toll on my body, leaving me with persistent pains that make it impossible to compete at my best.” He emphasized the need to prioritize his recovery, stating, “After careful consideration with my team, I’ve decided to withdraw from some of the upcoming tournaments to focus on recovery.”
While Prannoy did not specify the tournaments he will be missing or provide a timeline for his return, he assured fans, “Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. I’ll be back stronger.”
This news comes on the heels of a challenging period for Prannoy, who has faced a string of illnesses, including a chronic stomach disorder and a persistent back injury. Despite these setbacks, he displayed resilience at the Paris Olympics, winning both his group matches before falling to compatriot Lakshya Sen in the pre-quarterfinal.
As Prannoy takes this time to heal, fans eagerly await his return to the badminton court, hoping to see him back in peak form soon.
