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World Championships bronze medallist B Sai Praneeth announced his retirement on March 4 from international badminton to pursue a coaching career in the USA.
The 31-year-old from Hyderabad has chosen to retire due to persistent injuries he has been facing since the Tokyo Games, concluding a notable career highlighted by his victory at the 2017 Singapore Open.
B Sai Praneeth bids adieu to international badminton
"With a mix of emotions, I pen down these words to bid farewell and announce my retirement from the sport that has been my lifeblood for over 24 years," he posted on his Instagram account.
"Today, as I embark on a new chapter, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the journey that brought me here.
"Badminton, you have been my first love, my constant companion, shaping my character and giving purpose to my existence. The memories we’ve shared, the challenges we’ve overcome, will forever be etched in my heart," he wrote.
Praneeth is embarking on a new chapter as he prepares to assume the role of head coach at Triangle Badminton Academy in the US starting next month.
"I will be joining mid-April. I will be the head coach of the club. So, I will be overseeing all the players there. Of course, once I am there, we will discuss elaborately about the role," told PTI.
Read his post here
Throughout his international career spanning over two decades, Praneeth experienced several memorable moments. Among them, his triumph at the 2017 Singapore Open Super Series and winning the bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships in Basel, Switzerland, shine the brightest.
Praneeth achieved a career-high world ranking of number 10 and secured qualification for the Tokyo Olympics. However, he failed to make an impact, suffering losses in all matches and shockingly exiting at the group stage.
Praneeth thanks his family and coaches
"To my family - my grandparents, parents, and my loving wife Swetha - your endless encouragement has been the bedrock of my success. Without your unwavering support, none of this would have been possible," said the 2010 world junior bronze medallist.
"A heartfelt thank you to Pullela Gopichand anna, the Gopichand Academy, and the entire coaching and support staff. I also thank my coaches from childhood Arif sir, and Govardhan sir."
In 2019, Praneeth had a remarkable year, achieving the runner-up position at the Swiss Open Super 300. He then made history by becoming the first Indian male shuttler in 36 years to clinch a medal at the BWF World Championships. His outstanding performance earned him the prestigious Arjuna award in recognition of his achievement.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for Praneeth, as he grappled with multiple injuries. Despite winning a gold at the National Games in 2022, his difficulties persisted on the international circuit, leading to a rapid decline in his ranking, eventually dropping out of the top 100.
"It was really frustrating as my body was frequently breaking down," said Praneeth, who last played at the Guwahati Masters in December 2023.
(Powered by AI, Inputs by PTI)
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