Saina Nehwal announces divorce from husband Parupalli Kashyap after 7 years of marriage: 'Grateful for the memories ...'

Economic Times

8 hours ago

Badminton stars Saina Nehwal and Parupalli Kashyap have decided to separate. They announced their decision on social media. The couple trained together at the Pullela Gopichand Academy. They married in 2018 after a long companionship. Kashyap coached Nehwal later in her career. Nehwal has requested privacy during this time. Kashyap has not yet commented publicly.
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On July 13, renowned Indian badminton player Saina Nehwal revealed her decision to separate from her husband, Parupalli Kashyap , bringing an end to their marriage of nearly seven years. The news was shared via her Instagram profile, where she posted a brief and heartfelt message announcing the mutual decision to go their separate ways."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," wrote the badminton sensation on Instagram.Both Saina and Kashyap began their badminton journeys at the prestigious Pullela Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad. They grew up training together, gradually building their identities in the sport. Saina emerged as a global figure in Indian badminton, capturing an Olympic bronze medal and rising to the world number one ranking. Kashyap, too, earned significant acclaim, highlighted by his gold medal at the Commonwealth Games and consistent performances on international platforms.The pair formalized their relationship with marriage in 2018, after more than ten years of companionship and shared sporting goals. Parupalli eventually retired from professional play and shifted his focus to coaching. In a notable transition, he began mentoring Saina during the final phase of her competitive career. This role reversal—from fellow competitor and sparring partner to coach and advisor—reflected the strength and understanding within their bond.During his time as her coach, Kashyap played a key role in Saina's attempts to return to form following a string of injuries that had impacted her after the 2016 season. Though her comeback met with mixed outcomes, Saina's resilience remained unshaken. A standout moment came in 2019 when she triumphed over a strong PV Sindhu at the National Championships, with Kashyap guiding her from the sidelines. His presence was constant, especially at domestic matches and international qualifiers, where he provided strategic insights and emotional encouragement.Their relationship had long blended professional synergy with personal connection. Before becoming life partners, they were close friends and training companions for many years. Their wedding in 2018 was a private celebration of a bond forged on and off the court.Despite the recent announcement of their split, Saina expressed gratitude for the years they spent together and emphasized that the decision was made with maturity and respect. She highlighted the importance of personal growth and emotional healing, and appealed for privacy during this transitional phase.As of now, Parupalli Kashyap has not publicly commented on the separation. Their story, filled with shared victories and mutual support, remains a unique chapter in the history of Indian sports.