Saina Nehwal
Saina Nehwal
Saina Nehwal; born 17 March 1990) is an Indian badminton player, former world no.1 in Women's Singles . She is the first Indian to win a medal in Badminton at the Olympics. She achieved this feat by winning the Bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics on 4 August 2012. She is also the first Indian after Prakash Padukone and the first Indian woman to become world number 1 badminton player. Besides these, she is the first Indian to win...
NationalityIndian
ProfessionBadminton Player
Date of Birth17 March 1990
CityHisar District, India
CountryIndia
I never believed that India could win a medal in badminton because the competition is so tough.
When I was a kid, my parents would play badminton, but I hardly joined them. I'd just pick up their racquets and fiddle around. Check out how the racquet was made... toss it around to see how light it was! At the time, I didn't even know I'd play badminton.
Unlike most youngsters who have school as their 'second home' where they meet and make friends, for me playtime has been at the Gopichand Badminton Academy in Hyderabad. When I am not playing a tournament, my days are spent at the Academy with my coaches, physiotherapists and colleagues, who are like family. We laugh and have so much fun.
I have always wanted an Olympic medal. I always wanted to see India's national flag going up at the podium.
Both my parents were amateur badminton players. My father is a scientist and wanted me to be a doctor. But my mom was very aggressive and loved badminton. She pushed me right from the age of nine to take up the sport.
My uncles and other relatives are against encouraging girls in every aspect, and that includes sports. I hardly interact with them. My parents are more open. They back me all the way.
Badminton will gain momentum in a big manner after my win in Olympics. More players will participate in the game now.
I think studies are really important and shouldn't be compromised.
I have turned down so many endorsements. My phone never stops ringing.
I'm a normal girl. I don't go out much, and I don't know what is enjoyment.
I want to see more sports in schools.
I don't think I have the ability or patience to teach badminton to others.
Badminton is not as glamorous as cricket.
I am a huge Bollywood fan, and my favourite actor of all time is Shah Rukh Khan.