Saina Nehwal Expresses Disappointment Over Badminton’s Exclusion from 2026 Commonwealth Games, Backs Lakshya Sen
One of India’s most celebrated badminton players, Saina Nehwal, has voiced her disappointment regarding the decision to exclude badminton from the sports program of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Nehwal questioned the timing and impact of this move, particularly given the sport’s historical presence and India’s consistent success in the Games.
“I feel disappointing because we have been doing well in badminton and have been winning. We are not going this time. But as sportspersons, we just have to train and be ready. I can only notify the players to focus on the upcoming Asian Games, Olympics, and other super series. I am sure if badminton comes again, it will be a good thing,” Nehwal stated.
India enjoyed significant success in badminton at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, securing medals across various categories. Historically, the sport has been a consistent medal contributor for India, with Nehwal herself playing a pivotal role in those achievements. The exclusion represents a setback for the sport’s visibility and growth within the Commonwealth framework.
“There are a lot of chances that badminton will win medals for India. It is sad as a player, but we have to overcome this sadness and train again to be ready for the next tournament,” Nehwal added.
Nehwal urged current players to prioritize other major events, such as the Olympics and Asian Games, emphasizing the importance of maintaining mental fortitude amidst schedule changes.
Saina Nehwal Offers Support to Lakshya Sen Following All England Open Final Loss
Beyond the Commonwealth Games issue, Nehwal also addressed recent international badminton competitions, specifically Lakshya Sen’s performance at the All England Open Badminton Championships.
Sen finished as runner-up after a closely contested final against Lin Chun-Yi, narrowly missing the opportunity to join Prakash Padukone and Pullela Gopichand as Indian winners of the prestigious title.
“I also missed it in 2015. I consider it is a matter of luck. He tried his level best. He played well throughout the tournament,” Nehwal recalled, referencing her own runner-up finish in 2015. She highlighted Sen’s impressive run to the final, including a victory over then-world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi, as evidence of his potential.
“He is performing very well. I feel really sad. That shows that we have the capability to become the world’s best. It’s just that we necessitate more hard work and dedication,” she said.
Nehwal also acknowledged the depth of talent within Indian badminton, mentioning P. V. Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth, and H. S. Prannoy, and expressed confidence in the future of the sport in the country.
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