Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Oct 15: “I like Narendra Modi’s ideology, he is my favourite political leader,” said ace badminton player Saina Nehwal.
Addressing the media on October 14, Saina Nehwal, expressed admiration for prime minister Narendra Modi, calling him her favourite political leader. “I like Narendra Modi’s ideology. Sometimes I attend his events to show my support, but I’m not politically active. Politics isn’t as easy as people think; every field comes with its own challenges,” she said.
Clarifying her stance on politics, Saina said she has no plans to enter politics. “I have no interest in politics. My focus is on encouraging young children to get involved in sports. Badminton will always remain close to my heart. If I ever develop an interest in politics in the future, I’ll think about it then,” she said.
Saina Nehwal said though her passion for the sport remains intact, her body is no longer responding the way it used to. “I still have the enthusiasm to play, but my body doesn’t cooperate anymore. That’s why I had to make this tough decision. With a heavy heart I am stepping away from the game,” she said.
Saina Nehwal made it clear that she is not interested in taking up coaching at the moment and “Coaching is very difficult. It demands more effort than playing. Standing for 10 to 15 hours and constantly guiding players is not easy. For now, I am focused on motivating children to take up sports. Not just badminton, but all forms of sport. I find joy in inspiring kids to move away from social media and towards the playground.”
Lauding Prakash Padukone, Saina Nehwal called him a “legend and a real star.” “It feels great to visit his hometown. He has been a true inspiration for us players, including my coach Gopi Sir. From this region, players like Chirag Shetty and Satwik Shetty are very promising for Indian badminton,” she added.
The press conference was attended by pro vice-chancellor, MAHE, Manipal Dr Sharath Rao, chief operating officer, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, Dr Sudhakar Kanthipudi, medical superintendent, Dr Avinash Shetty, group manager, marketing, Sachin Karanth, manager, sales and marketing, Mohan Shetty and others.