Star Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal contemplates retirement: Here's why
What's the story
Indian badminton champion, Saina Nehwal, has publicly disclosed her ongoing struggle with arthritis. The condition has severely impacted her knees, limiting her ability to train effectively. In a recent interview with Gagan Narang, India's Chef de Mission at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Nehwal revealed that she is considering retirement due to her ongoing health issues.
Training struggles
Arthritis hampers Nehwal's training regime
Nehwal's arthritis has significantly affected her knee health, making it difficult for her to maintain a rigorous training schedule. "The knee is not very good. I have arthritis. My cartilage has gone to a bad state," she said during the podcast interview. She further added that it's challenging to train for 8-9 hours daily and compete against top players in this condition.
Career uncertainty
Nehwal's hiatus and potential retirement
Since her last competitive appearance at the Singapore Open, Nehwal has not participated in any tournament. She acknowledged that an athlete's career is typically short-lived and hinted at possible retirement by year-end. "I am also thinking about it. It will be sad because it is like a job that a normal person does," she stated during the podcast interview.
Career reflection
Nehwal reflects on her illustrious career
Despite her health struggles, Nehwal reflected on her achievements and dedication to the sport with pride. "I have broken my body to a great extent. I am happy with what I have done and given it all," she said during the podcast interview. She also expressed disappointment about potentially not being able to fulfill her childhood dream of competing in another Olympics due to her health issues.
Career pressures
Nehwal discusses pressure and career challenges
Nehwal also discussed the pressure that comes with being a top athlete, not just from fans but also from close ones. "When you become a big player, your friends, family, coaches, sponsors, everyone wants you to perform," she said during the podcast interview. She emphasized that athletes cannot afford long breaks and must continuously perform due to their short career span.
Achievement
India's first-ever Olympic medalist in badminton
In 2012, Nehwal became the first shuttler to bring an Olympic medal to India. She clinched the bronze medal in the women's singles event in 2012. Nehwal's campaign ended after she went down to the world champion Wang Yihan in the semi-final. Notably, the star athlete was dealing with viral fever at the start of the competition.