Saina Nehwal Brings Curtain Down on Badminton Career After Injury Struggles

Indian badminton icon Saina Nehwal has officially confirmed her retirement from competitive badminton, bringing an end to a trailblazing career that helped redefine the sport in India.

The 2012 London Olympic bronze medallist cited a chronic knee condition as the decisive factor, explaining that her body could no longer cope with the physical demands of elite-level training and competition, according to PTI.

Nehwal has not competed for nearly two years, with her last appearance coming at the 2023 Singapore Open. Despite stepping away from the circuit earlier, she had not publicly declared her retirement until now.

“I Can’t Push It Anymore”

Speaking on a podcast, Nehwal said she felt no need for a formal announcement, as her decision to leave the sport was deeply personal.

“I entered the sport on my own terms and left on my own terms, so there was no need to announce it,” she said, as quoted by PTI. “If you are not capable of playing anymore, that’s it. It’s fine.”

She revealed that severe cartilage degeneration and arthritis in her knees made continued competition impossible.

“My knee was giving up in one or two hours of training. It was swelling and became very tough to push after that. So I thought it’s enough. I can’t push it anymore,” she added.

Injuries That Changed the Trajectory

Nehwal’s career was significantly impacted by injuries, particularly after suffering a serious knee issue during the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. Although she mounted an impressive comeback winning bronze at the 2017 World Championships and gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games persistent knee problems repeatedly disrupted her progress.

In 2024, Nehwal disclosed that she had developed arthritis in both knees, with extensive cartilage erosion making high-intensity training unsustainable.

A Legacy Beyond Medals

Widely regarded as one of India’s greatest badminton players, Nehwal played a pivotal role in popularising the sport and inspiring a generation of athletes. Her achievements opened doors for Indian women on the global badminton stage and laid the foundation for India’s rise as a powerhouse in the sport.

As she steps away from competition, tributes continue to pour in for a player whose impact extended far beyond podium finishes.