Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu announced her retirement from professional badminton at an emotional press conference in Hyderabad on Sunday, bringing down the curtain on one of the most decorated careers in Indian sporting history. Sindhu, 30, said the time has come for a new generation to carry the torch and that she is departing with gratitude and no regrets. Her career spanned 16 years, during which she won silver at Rio 2016 and bronze at Tokyo 2020 along with a World Championship gold in 2019.
Sports Minister Mandaviya called Sindhu an immortal legend of Indian badminton who inspired millions of young girls to pick up a racquet. Former coach Gopichand said she was the most dedicated player he had ever coached. Sindhu indicated she would remain involved in badminton as an administrator and mentor, and has accepted an invitation to join the Badminton World Federation athlete commission. The Badminton Association of India announced a lifetime achievement award and a special coaching fellowship would be named in her honour.