Two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu has shared a heartfelt message on social media for Tai Tzu-ying, the badminton legend from Chinese Taipei, who recently announced her retirement from the sport. Tai Tzu-ying, a two-time World Championships medalist and gold medalist at the 2018 Asian Games, decided to retire at the age of 31.
In her message, Sindhu acknowledged the fierce rivalry and the personal bond they developed over the years. "For over 15 years, you were the opponent who pushed me to my limits every single time," Sindhu wrote on her Instagram page. She highlighted specific matches, including the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2019 World Championships, where Tai Tzu-ying challenged her to dig deep. Sindhu stated that two of the most important medals of her career came after playing Tai Tzu-ying in those matches.
Sindhu also humorously mentioned their 2021 semifinal match, where Tai Tzu-ying denied her an Asian Games gold medal. Despite the intense competition, Sindhu admitted her dislike for playing against Tai Tzu-ying, recognizing her exceptional wristwork, deceptive shots, and calm demeanor. "I won't hide it: I hated playing you," Sindhu confessed. She emphasized that facing Tai Tzu-ying transformed her as an athlete, requiring her to prepare extensively before each encounter.
Beyond their rivalry, Sindhu spoke of the friendship and deep respect they built. "But beyond the rivalry, we built something truly meaningful. A quiet friendship, a deep respect, and a bond shaped through years of battles that only we fully understand," she wrote. Sindhu expressed a sense of loss at Tai Tzu-ying's retirement, stating that it felt like losing a part of her own journey. She also reflected on her generation of players slowly stepping away from the sport.
Tai Tzu-ying announced her retirement on Instagram, expressing gratitude for her badminton career. "A beautiful chapter has come to an end. Thank you, badminton, for everything you have given me," she wrote. She revealed that injuries had forced her decision and that she needed time to come to terms with it. Tai Tzu-ying added that she would enjoy a life without alarm clocks and had not yet decided on her future plans.
PV Sindhu's message showcases the respect and camaraderie between two of badminton's prominent figures. Her words resonated with fans, recognizing the impact Tai Tzu-ying had on her career and the sport. Sindhu concluded her note by wishing Tai Tzu-ying a beautiful second innings.
This isn't the first time the two athletes have shared a special moment. After the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where Tai Tzu-ying won silver, Sindhu was seen consoling her opponent. Tai Tzu-ying revealed that Sindhu's words of encouragement brought her to tears. Sindhu told her, "I know you're uncomfortable and you've been very good, but today isn't your day. I know all about it, losing in an Olympic final". Tai Tzu-ying expressed her gratitude for Sindhu's support and encouragement.
