Saina Nehwal is one of the top players in Women’s Singles. The Indian talks about the current competition, and what it means for her to be perceived as a public figure in her home country.
2018 included a busy time schedule for Saina Nehwal. The Women’s Singles player from India participated in more than 13 tournaments around the world. Her highlight: winning the Commonwealth Games in April.
A strong competition
Nehwal is currently world-ranked number nine. This year, she was able to reach two World Tour finals, at the DAIHATSU Indonesian Masters and the DANISA Denmark Open.
In both matches, Nehwal had to accept defeats against the current number one in the world, Tai Tzu Ying from Chinese Taipei.
- The competition in Women’s Doubles is very strong. But it is good that the domination is varying, it has a positive impact on the publicity and sponsorship of the sport. Badminton is growing around the world, and Tai Tzu Ying is definitely encouraging young people to play badminton, Nehwahl said.
- But you cannot underestimate the Chinese competition. They are dominating since a lot of years now, but it is good to see that players from Japan, Thailand or Chinese Taipei are also establishing in the top of the world, she added.
The qualities of European top players
Regarding the development of badminton worldwide, Nehwal revealed to Badminton Europe that she perceives European top players as very strong opponents:
- I would say that European players are stronger than Asian ones. We Asians might be dominating regarding the tactics, but when it comes to power and speed, European players are better.
Not retiring soon
Saina Nehwal is 28 years old. But the Indian top player is not thinking about retiring soon. Instead, she enjoys being in the spotlight.
- Badminton is the biggest sport in India, next to cricket. You can earn a lot of money and fame. There is a lot of public interest, broadcasting companies are reporting about badminton. I enjoy being perceived as a star in the media.
- When I feel that I am happy and tried my very best, then I might retire. There are players that are 34 years old who participate in their second Olympics and win them. But life changes, who knows what will be tomorrow.