Saina Nehwal Retires from Competitive Badminton

Olympic medallist and former world No.1 bids farewell after a trailblazing career that transformed Indian badminton

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Rajan Mhatre

Last Updated: 2026-01-20 06:53:55

Summary: Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal announces retirement, thanking fans and reflecting on her career.

India’s badminton icon Saina Nehwal has announced her retirement from competitive badminton, bringing to a close a remarkable career that inspired a generation of players.

In a heartfelt statement, Saina — a former world No. 1 and Olympic medallist — said she felt it was “the right time” to step away from the professional circuit after years of physical grind and fierce competition. Her announcement came on Sunday, with fans and fellow athletes pouring in messages of admiration and gratitude.

Saina’s rise in the sport was nothing short of historic. She rose to prominence on the world stage after excellent junior performances, winning many Superseries titles and becoming the first Indian woman to reach the top of the badminton world rankings. Her bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics remains one of the country’s greatest sporting achievements.

Over her long career, she also won medals at the World Championships, Commonwealth Games and Asian Championships, leaving a legacy that helped put Indian badminton on the global map. Young players often spoke about how watching Saina compete — with intensity, strategy and heart — motivated them to take up the sport.

In her retirement announcement, Saina mentioned the physical strain and lengthy seasons, noting that her body had started to send clearer signals that it was time to take a break. She also shared her joy and remembered the good relations she made, rivalries, and memorable moments that influenced her path. She's at peace with her decision.

The volleyball star PV Sindhu, Saina’s long-time rival and teammate, was among the first to pay tribute. Sindhu called Saina “a trailblazer” whose achievements opened doors for so many Indian shuttlers, and said she felt lucky to have shared the court with her.

Badminton officials and fans across the country lauded Saina’s career on social media, highlighting how her success helped spark broader interest in badminton across India, especially among girls and young athletes from small towns and cities.

Even though she has retired from competing, many believe Saina will continue to be active in badminton, whether through teaching, mentoring upcoming players, or acting as an ambassador for the sport. Her impact on Indian badminton will last well beyond her last match.

This marks the end of an era in Indian badminton and the beginning of a new one, built on her commitment, tenacity, and a string of outstanding victories.