Palakkad: When asked about the thing she loves most, pat came the reply from ace shuttler Saina Nehwal: "badminton." The 33-year-old former world No.1 has been dealing with a series of injuries that regularly interrupted her career, but the thought of giving up has never crossed her mind.
The 2012 London Olympics medalist, who was in Palakkad for a private event, spoke about her struggles with injuries, rivalry with P V Sindhu and career goals in an exclusive interview with Malayala Manorama.
You have been enduring a frustrating period marred by injuries. How did it affect your performance?
For the past one year, I have been battling knee issues. The most frustrating part is it takes several days for the swelling to dissipate. Medication and therapies have helped me reduce pain and inflammation. I'm hopeful of regaining form soon. Preparing well for the 2024 Paris Olympics is my immediate goal.
Twenty-five years have passed since you started playing the game. What keeps you motivated?
It is not easy to keep the passion alive for such a long time. I love doing things that make me happy. I will continue to play badminton as long as my body allows me to do so. The support of my trainers and loved ones also makes a huge difference.
Rumours are rife about your feud with Sindhu. How do you react to them? And tell us about the relationship you have with Sindhu?
Whenever we meet we would talk to each other and exchange greetings. It is a highly competitive field and everyone plays to win. In individual sports like tennis and badminton, it is difficult to maintain a deep relationship with one another. As we all are playing to make our country proud, we feel great when the other person does well.
Do you visit Kerala regularly?
I come to Kerala quite often. I have fond memories of Kozhikode where I won the national junior title. It is a beautiful place. I really want to stay in Kerala for some time and explore the places. I am looking forward to it.
What is your message to people in Kerala who love and follow badminton?
Kerala has many outstanding achievements in the field of education. Most of the parents advise their children to study well and be doctors or engineers. Like that they need to motivate the kids to take up badminton or any other sport. I'm immensely grateful to my parents for their support and guidance.
What are your post-retirement plans? Will you join politics or consider moving into coaching?
Coaching is not an easy task. I don’t think I'm ready for that. At the moment, my sole aim is playing the sport as long as possible. I've not thought about entering politics.
