In a heartfelt announcement, Olympic bronze medalist Saina Nehwal revealed on Sunday night that she and her husband Parupalli Kashyap, also a former international shuttler, have decided to part ways. The couple, who tied the knot on December 14, 2018, made the decision after “much thought and consideration.”
In an Instagram story shared with her followers, Saina wrote:
“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.”
From Partners On-Court to Off-Court
Saina and Kashyap were long-time training partners at the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy in Hyderabad and were often seen supporting each other through their careers. While Saina Nehwal rose to iconic status with a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics and a stint as World No. 1, Kashyap reached a career-high world ranking of No. 6 and clinched gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Kashyap transitioned into coaching after retiring in early 2024 and has since been active in mentoring upcoming Indian shuttlers.
Saina’s Future in the Sport
The 35-year-old Saina, once a trailblazer for Indian badminton, has been on an extended break from the sport. She last competed at the Singapore Open in June 2023, where she exited in the first round. In a podcast with shooter Gagan Narang last year, she spoke candidly about her struggles with arthritis and admitted she was contemplating retirement, likely to be assessed towards the end of 2025.
A Legacy Beyond Medals
Saina Nehwal’s impact on Indian badminton is monumental. She is:
- The first Indian to win an Olympic badminton medal
- The first Indian to reach the World Championship final
- The first Indian to win the BWF World Junior Championships
Her rise in the 2000s laid the foundation for India’s emergence as a global badminton powerhouse, inspiring the next generation of stars like PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth, and Lakshya Sen.
As fans and peers express support for both Saina and Kashyap, the focus now shifts to their respective individual journeys — one continuing as a mentor, and the other, possibly approaching a poignant farewell to a glorious career.
