India’s badminton icon Saina Nehwal confirms split from fellow shuttler and Olympic quarterfinalist Parupalli Kashyap, citing peace and personal growth as reasons.
New Delhi [India], July 14, 2025 — Indian badminton legend and Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal announced her divorce from husband Parupalli Kashyap, bringing an end to their nearly seven-year-long marriage. The couple, both former top-tier shuttlers, had tied the knot in 2018 after years of companionship on and off the court.
The 34-year-old badminton star shared the news through a heartfelt Instagram post on Sunday.
“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,” she wrote.
A Power Couple in Indian Badminton
Both Saina Nehwal and Parupalli Kashyap have been instrumental in the growth and popularity of badminton in India over the past two decades.
Saina Nehwal’s Career Highlights:
- Made headlines by winning the BWF World Junior Championships in 2008.
- Became the first Indian woman to reach the Olympic quarter-finals in 2008.
- Clinched the bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics, becoming the first Indian woman to win an Olympic badminton medal.
- In 2009, she became the first Indian to win a BWF Super Series event.
- Attained the World No.1 ranking in 2015 — the only Indian female shuttler to do so.
- Honoured with the Arjuna Award (2009), Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (2010), and Padma Bhushan (2016).
Her consistency and fearless approach transformed badminton’s reach in India, inspiring a new generation of athletes.
Parupalli Kashyap’s Career Highlights:
- Won the gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow — a historic win, as it marked the first Indian men’s singles gold in the event after 32 years.
- Reached the quarterfinals at the 2012 London Olympics, becoming the first Indian male shuttler to do so.
- Achieved a career-best world ranking of No.6 in 2013.
- Trained under Indian badminton legends Prakash Padukone and Pullela Gopichand.
- Struggled with recurring injuries later in his career, impacting his consistency on the international stage.
From On-Court Partnership to Personal Journey
The duo, both hailing from the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, were long admired for their shared discipline, work ethic, and mutual support through wins and challenges. Their marriage in 2018 was celebrated widely in the Indian sporting community as a union of equals, united not just by love but a mutual dedication to the game.
While their on-court chemistry was often praised, the decision to part ways is being viewed with respect, as fans and athletes alike appreciate their request for privacy and dignity during a deeply personal transition.
A New Chapter Ahead
Though the announcement may come as a surprise to many, Saina and Kashyap’s respective statements reflect mutual respect, healing, and acceptance. As two of India’s most celebrated badminton players, both have significantly impacted Indian sports and continue to inspire young athletes across the nation.
With this announcement, Saina Nehwal embarks on a new chapter, both personally and professionally, with her legacy in Indian badminton firmly intact.