Olympic bronze medalist and former world no. 1 badminton player Saina Nehwal has confirmed her separation from her husband and fellow shuttler Parupalli Kashyap after their seven-year-long marriage. The news first surfaced on Saina’s official Instagram account when she posted a short but emotional message confirming the end of her marital journey.Saina’s post said, “Life takes us in different directions sometimes; we are choosing peace, growth, and healing for ourselves and each other. Thank you for understanding and respecting our privacy,” she posted. Her heartfelt post recognized her journey with her husband and looked back at the time together, suggesting that even if you go your separate ways, it should be respectfully done.
The two got married back in 2018 with pomp and show and were a celebrated power couple of India. Their rollercoaster journey began ages ago in the courts of Pullela Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad, where they practiced together. Saina became world no. 1 and secured a bronze at the 2012 London Olympics; Parupalli came into the limelight by securing gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and breaking into the top 10 of the BWF world rankings.
Credit: Instagram/@nehwalsaina
With time, the two friends’ relationship transcended the game since their fans began to admire their friendship, discipline, and love for this game.
credit: instagram/@parupallikashyap
Speculations of strain in their marriage had also arisen previously, but Parupalli and Saina hadn’t discussed their relationship in that way. This news, however, confirms something that was once speculated. Now they have separated amicably and with respect. Saina, now 35 years old, had also been dealing with some ailments, like arthritis, and had signalled that she could retire prematurely.
A new start
Though this is their path and their marriage is over, both Saina and Parupalli remain honored names on the Indian sporting map. Now, as they move forward, both will have their fans continue celebrating their glorious past and wishing them both well for the remainder of their lives. Their undying legacy built on grit, passion, detemination and love will continue to inspire generations
