Saina Nehwal coy but thanks all for wishing her ‘happy retirement’ | Badminton News – The Times of India

HYDERABAD: The accolades and praises continue to pour in, lauding Saina Nehwal’s sensational performance as she walked away from the sport she made so popular. The former world number 1, who said there is no need to formally announce her retirement as it is understood by her prolonged absence, thanked all the top athletes and prominent personalities who congratulated her.Sachin Tendulkar led the chorus on Friday. “Dear Saina, your career is proof that greatness is built one day at a time, with patience, courage and consistency. You have taken Indian badminton to the world stage and shown that faith, coupled 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 on X.

Virat Kohli also wished her a happy retirement. “Congratulations @NSaina on a legendary career that has brought Indian badminton to the world stage. Wishing you a happy, fulfilling and well-deserved retirement. India stands proud,” Kohli said.PV Sindhu, who followed in Saina’s footsteps and trained with her for several years, said: “Wishing you a happy retirement, @NSaina. Thank you for all you have contributed to Indian badminton. I wish you peace, happiness and all the best in this next phase of life.”VVS Laxman, Mithali Raj, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, his son Nara Lokesh, Union ministers G Kishan Reddy and Kiren Rijiju also congratulated Saina.The 35-year-old shuttler said retirement was a difficult decision. “It’s a tough decision but I had to take it. After the knee injury at the 2023 Singapore Open, the doctors told me that the cartilage has completely degenerated and I have arthritis,” Saina said, adding that she did not want to take up coaching so quickly.“I don’t want to become a coach right away. I will take some time and then decide.”