Saina Nehwal Hints at Retirement: Knee Injury and Arthritis Force Badminton Star to Consider Ending Career

Indian badminton star Saina Nehwal has hinted at a possible retirement from the sport, citing a persistent knee injury and arthritis as the main reasons. During a recent podcast appearance on ‘House of Glory,’ produced by former Olympian shooter Gagan Narang, Saina revealed that her knee has been a source of significant pain and discomfort for several years. She expressed concern that her cartilage is deteriorating, making it difficult for her to train and compete at the highest level.

Saina first alluded to retirement in June 2023 after losing in the first round of the Singapore Open. She has been open about the struggles she’s faced with her knee, stating last year that it needed to fully heal before she could return to competitive badminton. The 34-year-old shuttler, who has been training with her husband Parupalli Kashyap, acknowledged that her body is no longer able to withstand the rigorous demands of the sport. She emphasized the difficulties of staying at the top of the game when training for only two hours a day is insufficient to maintain the necessary level of fitness and performance.

Saina expressed her deep appreciation for her long and successful career. “I have had a long career and I am very proud of that,” she said, adding, “I have broken my body to a great extent. I am happy with what I have done and given it all.” She spoke candidly about the emotional toll of accepting her physical limitations and the realization that she may no longer be able to compete at the elite level.

The 2016 Olympics proved to be a turning point for Saina. She limped out of the second round after a loss to Maria Ulitina of Ukraine, leading to a surgery on her right knee. Despite the surgery, her recovery has been challenging, and she has been unable to qualify for the last two Olympics.

“Competing at the Olympics is a childhood dream for all. You prepare to reach that level for years. Hence, at times, when you realize you will not be able to make it, hurts a lot. It is not like you don’t want to play, but your body is telling you that you are not doing well and you have injuries,” Saina said, reflecting on the emotional impact of her struggles.

Saina Nehwal, the first Indian woman to achieve the world’s No. 1 ranking in badminton, has had a remarkable career. She is widely considered a pioneer for women’s badminton in India. Despite the challenges she has faced in recent years, her contributions to the sport will never be forgotten. The decision to retire is a difficult one for any athlete, and Saina’s journey serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and dedication required to excel at the highest level of professional sports.

Related posts:

Saina Nehwal Battles Arthritis, Faces Retirement Decision by Year’s End Saina Nehwal Highlights Disparity in Sports Funding, Comparing Cricket’s Privileges to Badminton’s Struggles Saina Nehwal’s Shocking Admission Sparks Controversy: ‘Didn’t Know About Javelin Throw Until Neeraj Chopra Won Olympic Gold’