'Only badminton, all our other choices are ... ': Saina Nehwal's old remarks resurface after split with Parupalli Kashyap
Saina Nehwal
and Parupalli Kashyap have ended their marriage after seven years. The news came through Saina's Instagram post during the early hours on Monday. In a 2021 interview with You and I magazine, the couple had discussed their relationship dynamics.
"Only badminton, all our other choices are different!" Saina had stated during the interview.
The couple revealed their contrasting personalities. Kashyap preferred serious cinema and was sociable, while Saina enjoyed Bollywood films and was more reserved.
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On July 14, Saina shared her separation announcement: "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."
Their relationship began at
Pullela Gopichand
Academy where they trained as young badminton players. They kept their relationship private before marrying in 2018.
Saina Nehwal has been a pioneer in Indian badminton, winning the BWF World Junior Championships in 2008.
Poll
Which aspect of Saina Nehwal's career do you admire the most?
Becoming World No. 1
Winning Olympic Bronze
Pioneering women's badminton in India
During her peak, she achieved several milestones, including becoming the first Indian woman to reach an Olympic quarter-final.
She later won bronze at the 2012 London Olympics.
In 2015, Saina made history by becoming the first Indian woman to achieve World No. 1 ranking in badminton.
Parupalli Kashyap also had a significant career, becoming the first Indian male player to reach Olympic quarter-finals in 2012.
He reached his career-best world ranking of No. 6 in 2013. The following year, he won gold at the Commonwealth Games, ending India's 32-year wait for a men's singles title. Despite facing frequent injuries throughout his career, Kashyap maintained his position as a respected figure in badminton.
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