In a deeply emotional development that has stunned fans and the sporting fraternity alike, Indian badminton icon Saina Nehwal who won first Olympic medal for India in tennis has officially announced her separation from her husband and fellow shuttler Parupalli Kashyap, ending a partnership that spanned over seven years.
The 35-year-old athlete took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news with a heartfelt note, confirming the end of their marriage, which began in 2018. The post, though brief, struck an emotional chord with fans who have long admired the couple both on and off the court.
“Life takes us in different directions sometimes. After much thought and consideration, Kashyap Parupalli and I have decided to part ways. We're choosing peace, growth, and healing – for ourselves and each other. I'm grateful for the memories and wish nothing but the best moving forward. Thank you for understanding and respecting our privacy during this time,” Saina wrote.
A power couple in Indian badminton
Saina Nehwal and Parupalli Kashyap, both trailblazers in Indian badminton, were considered one of the sport’s most admired couples. Their journey began not only as professional teammates but also as mutual supporters in one of the most physically demanding individual sports. Their bond strengthened over years of rigorous training under the mentorship of renowned coaches Prakash Padukone and Pullela Gopichand.
Saina Nehwal’s stellar legacy
Hailing from Haryana, Saina Nehwal has redefined the landscape of Indian badminton. She captured the nation's attention after winning the BWF World Junior Championships in 2008, the same year she made her Olympic debut. Her most iconic moment came during the 2012 London Olympics, where she became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in badminton.
Over the years, she has collected numerous accolades, including:
Bronze medal at 2012 London Olympics
Two World Championship medals
BWF Super Series title (2009)
Five Commonwealth Games medals (three gold, one silver and one bronze)
Arjuna Award (2009)
Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (2010)
Padma Bhushan (2016)
World No. 1 ranking in 2015
She has been a beacon of inspiration for countless young Indian athletes, especially women striving to break into competitive sports.
Parupalli Kashyap’s historic feats
Kashyap, too, boasts an impressive career. A 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medallist, he was the first Indian male badminton player in 32 years to achieve this milestone. He reached the quarter-finals of the 2012 London Olympics and climbed to a career-best world ranking of No. 6 in 2013.
Unfortunately, recurring injuries hampered his progress, but his contribution to Indian badminton remains significant and widely respected.
A chapter closes, legacies remain
While the announcement of their separation marks the end of a personal chapter, both Saina Nehwal and Parupalli Kashyap’s legacies in Indian sport remain untouched. They have not only delivered historic performances but also brought mainstream attention to badminton in a cricket-dominated nation.
As fans continue to pour in messages of support and love, the former couple’s journey together will be remembered for its strength, grace, and mutual respect.