New Delhi, Jul 14, 2025 : Indian badminton icons Saina Nehwal and Parupalli Kashyap have announced their decision to part ways, ending their marriage of over six years. The couple, both former Olympians and celebrated figures in Indian sport, shared the update via social media on Sunday.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, 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.”
The duo tied the knot in December 2018 after years of companionship both on and off the court.
Saina Nehwal, an Olympic bronze medallist and two-time Commonwealth Games champion, has had a trailblazing career. She rose to fame after winning the BWF World Junior Championship in 2008, and went on to become the first Indian woman to reach the Olympic quarter-finals in badminton. In 2015, she made history as the first Indian woman to be ranked World No. 1 in badminton. Her accolades include the Arjuna Award (2009) and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (2010).
Parupalli Kashyap, a former World No. 6, claimed gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, becoming the first Indian male shuttler in 32 years to do so. He also made history by reaching the Olympic quarter-finals in 2012, the first Indian male player to achieve the feat. Despite injury setbacks, Kashyap remained a resilient force in Indian badminton, training under legends Prakash Padukone and Pullela Gopichand.
The announcement marks a personal transition for two of India’s most respected badminton players, both of whom have left a lasting legacy in the sport. Their contributions have inspired a generation of athletes across the country.
