Saina Nehwal Lauds Sindhu's Fighting Comeback Spirit

Sindhu's Comeback Impresses Saina
Sindhu, now 31, claimed her first-ever Super 750 title at the Japan Open, getting past three-time world champion Akane Yamaguchi in straight games during Sunday's final in Tokyo. It stands as her most significant title since she won the World Championships back in 2019, with her only other recent silverware coming from the 2022 Singapore Open Super 500 and the 2024 Syed Modi International Super 300.

Reflecting on the win, Saina admitted the last few years had been rough for Sindhu as she battled through injuries. She pointed out how impressively Sindhu fought past several top-ranked opponents en route to the title, noting a real improvement in her attacking play. Saina acknowledged that competing at the highest level while managing fitness setbacks brings its own pressure, but felt this title would give Sindhu a fresh dose of confidence going forward. She was firm in her belief that a player of Sindhu's experience and pedigree will keep bouncing back.

Saina also touched on the next generation of shuttlers, stressing that consistency remains the key ingredient for young players hoping to make their mark. She credited that very consistency for badminton's popularity in the country, urging upcoming talents to stay focused on each tournament ahead.

Excitement Builds for World Championships in India
With India set to host the Badminton World Championships from August 17 to 23 — the tournament's return to the country after a 17-year gap — Saina expressed genuine excitement. She pointed to Sindhu's current form and the strong performances of Lakshya Sen as reasons for optimism, adding that India has a squad capable of challenging for medals on home soil, alongside a promising bunch of younger players.

Saina, who herself won silver and bronze at the 2015 and 2017 World Championships respectively, said her only wish was for the event to run smoothly, referencing earlier concerns during the India Open Super 750 in January, when the venue faced criticism over pollution, hygiene issues, and even sightings of pigeons and monkeys on the premises.

Thoughts on Commonwealth Games and Her Own Future
Looking ahead to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, starting July 23, Saina wished the Indian contingent luck but voiced disappointment that badminton, along with sports like hockey and shooting, had been dropped from this edition. A two-time CWG gold medallist herself, in 2010 and 2018, she said it was hard not to feel for the athletes affected by the exclusion, even as she wished the participating team a medal-laden campaign.

On the subject of coaching, Saina said she wasn't ready to commit just yet, pointing out how demanding the role can be, especially with a new generation of players to manage. For now, she said she prefers staying involved through motivational talks and mentorship rather than taking on a full-time coaching role.

Asked about a possible return to competitive badminton, Saina was candid, saying a comeback would be tough given her ongoing struggle with arthritis, even with the new scoring system arriving next year.