In a surprising turn of events, Indian badminton stars Saina Nehwal and Parupalli Kashyap have announced their separation after nearly seven years of marriage. The news, revealed by Nehwal in an Instagram post on Sunday, July 13, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the sports world.
"Life takes us in different directions sometimes," Nehwal wrote in her statement. "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". As of now, Kashyap has not publicly responded to the announcement.
The couple's relationship, which began on the badminton courts, blossomed into love over a decade before their marriage on December 14, 2018. Both trained at the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy in Hyderabad. Their shared passion for badminton and mutual support made them a power couple in the Indian sports scene.
Nehwal, born on March 17, 1990, in Hisar, Haryana, is a celebrated badminton player with numerous achievements. She is the first Indian badminton player to win an Olympic medal, securing a bronze at the 2012 London Olympics. She also won the World Junior Badminton Championships in 2008. Nehwal has won over 24 international titles, including eleven Superseries titles. In 2015, she was the first female badminton player to achieve the world's number one ranking after Prakash Padukone. However, Nehwal's performance has been inconsistent in recent years, with her last professional match played in June 2023. She has also been open about her struggles with arthritis and is considering retirement.
Kashyap, born on September 8, 1986, in Hyderabad, is a former badminton player and current coach at the Gopichand Badminton Academy. He won a gold medal in the men's singles tournament at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games. In 2012, he received the Arjuna Award for his achievements in badminton. Kashyap reached the quarter-finals of the London Olympics 2012, becoming the first male player from India to do so. He achieved a career-best world ranking of sixth in 2013. Kashyap retired from professional badminton in 2024 and has since transitioned into coaching.
In the later stages of her career, Kashyap took on the role of coaching Nehwal. His transition from a fellow player to a strategic mentor was a testament to their deep bond. In 2019, under Kashyap's guidance, Nehwal defeated PV Sindhu at the National Championships.
The announcement of their separation marks the end of an era for Indian badminton. Their relationship, which began as a shared passion for the sport, evolved into a strong partnership that inspired many. While the couple is moving in different directions, their contributions to Indian badminton will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.
