Saina Nehwal Quits: Knee Woes End Champion's Career

Saina Nehwal, a celebrated Indian badminton player, has retired from competitive badminton. The decision stems from a chronic knee condition that has made it impossible to meet the rigorous physical demands of elite sport. She confirmed her retirement on Monday, stating that her knee issues prevented sustained training.

Nehwal's final competitive appearance was at the 2023 Singapore Open. She explained that she chose not to formally announce her retirement, feeling her career had concluded on her own terms. The former world number one cited severe knee degeneration, including arthritis and worn cartilage, as the primary drivers for her decision.

The 2012 London Olympic bronze medallist noted that while she once trained eight to nine hours daily, her knee pain now limits her to one or two hours of practice. This recurring issue, significantly exacerbated by a knee injury at the Rio 2016 Olympics, has ultimately led to her stepping away from the sport.