Saina Nehwal Hangs Up Her Racket: India's Badminton Icon Bows Out Due to Chronic Knee Condition
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In a candid conversation, Indian badminton legend Saina Nehwal revealed that she has retired from competitive badminton due to a chronic knee condition that has plagued her for years. The 2012 London Olympic bronze medallist attributed her decision to the severe degeneration of her knee cartilage and arthritis, which made it impossible for her to maintain the physical demands of elite sport. Saina, 35, had been dealing with knee issues since the 2016 Rio Olympics but made a remarkable comeback, winning World Championship bronze in 2017 and Commonwealth Games gold in 2018. However, recurring problems continued to hinder her progress. In 2024, she openly discussed her arthritis and cartilage wear, acknowledging that elite-level training had become extremely challenging. Saina surprisingly revealed that she felt no need to formally announce her retirement, citing her prolonged absence from competition as a clear indication of her decision. In a podcast, she stated, 'I actually felt that I entered the sport on my own terms and left on my own terms, so there was no need to announce it.' Her last professional appearance was at the 2023 Singapore Open. Saina's remarkable career has been marked by numerous achievements, including her Olympic bronze medal and World Championship bronze. Though her retirement marks the end of an era, it also highlights her courage and honesty in acknowledging her limitations. As she moves on from competitive badminton, fans and fellow athletes alike will remember her as a true champion and an inspiration to many.
