Saina Nehwal Receives Heartfelt Tributes Following Retirement Announcement
HYDERABAD: The Indian sporting community continues to shower accolades and praises on Saina Nehwal, celebrating her sensational achievements as she steps away from the sport she helped popularize across the nation. The former world No.1 badminton player, who indicated that a formal retirement announcement was unnecessary due to her prolonged absence from the court, expressed gratitude to the top sportspersons and leading personalities who have congratulated her on this significant transition.
Sachin Tendulkar Leads the Chorus of Praise
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar initiated the wave of tributes on Friday, posting a heartfelt message on social media platform X. "Dear Saina, your career is proof that greatness is built one day at a time, with patience, courage, and consistency. You carried Indian badminton to the world stage and showed that belief, when matched with preparation, can change the course of a sport. Beyond the medals lies your greatest achievement. Inspiring young athletes across the country to believe that global success is possible," Tendulkar wrote, encapsulating the profound impact of Nehwal's journey.
Virat Kohli and PV Sindhu Extend Warm Wishes
Former Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli also joined in, wishing Nehwal a happy retirement. "Congratulations @NSaina on a legendary career that put Indian badminton on the world stage. Wishing you a happy, fulfilling and well-deserved retirement. India is proud," Kohli stated, highlighting her role in elevating the sport's profile internationally.
PV Sindhu, who followed in Nehwal's footsteps and trained alongside her for several years, shared her sentiments. "Wishing you a happy retirement, @NSaina. Thank you for everything you’ve contributed to Indian badminton. Wishing you peace, happiness, and the very best in this next phase of life," Sindhu said, acknowledging the mentorship and legacy left by her senior compatriot.
Widespread Congratulations from Sports and Political Figures
The outpouring of support extended beyond the badminton arena, with notable figures from various fields expressing their admiration. Among those who congratulated Saina Nehwal were:
- VVS Laxman, former Indian cricketer
- Mithali Raj, former Indian women's cricket captain
- Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu
- His son Nara Lokesh
- Union ministers G Kishan Reddy and Kiren Rijiju
This broad spectrum of well-wishers underscores the widespread respect and influence Nehwal has garnered throughout her illustrious career.
Nehwal Opens Up About Retirement Decision and Future Plans
The 35-year-old shuttler revealed that retiring was a difficult decision to make. "It's a tough decision but I had to take it. After the knee injury during the Singapore Open in 2023, the doctors told me that the cartilage has totally degenerated and I have arthritis," Nehwal explained, citing the medical challenges that ultimately led to her departure from professional play.
Regarding her future endeavors, Nehwal clarified that she does not intend to transition into coaching immediately. "I don’t want to turn into a coach immediately. I will take some time and then decide about it," she stated, indicating a period of reflection before embarking on the next chapter of her life.
Saina Nehwal's retirement marks the end of an era in Indian badminton, but her legacy as a trailblazer who inspired countless young athletes and brought global recognition to the sport remains firmly intact. The tributes from peers, legends, and leaders serve as a testament to her enduring impact on the sporting landscape of India.
