Badminton News: President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday engaged in a friendly badminton match with renowned badminton player and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Saina Nehwal at the badminton court inside the Rashtrapati Bhavan complex.

Before the badminton match, President Murmu had the honour of unveiling the venerable Durand Cup, along with the President's Cup and the Shimla Cup, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The 133rd edition of the Durand Cup football tournament, which marks the beginning of the Indian football season, will begin on July 27 and the final match is scheduled for August 31.

The Indian President's official social media account shared a glimpse of Droupadi Murmu's badminton session with Saina. As part of the 'Her Story – My Story' lecture series featuring women who have been awarded the Padma, Saina is scheduled to address an audience at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on Thursday.

“President Droupadi Murmu's natural love for sports and games was evident as he played badminton with the very famous player, Ms. Saina Nehwal, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan badminton court. This inspiring decision by the President is in line with India's emergence as a badminton powerhouse, with women players who have made a huge impact on the world stage. As part of the 'Her Story – My Story' lecture series featuring women Padma Award recipients, Ms. Saina Nehwal, an iconic Indian sportsperson, who has been awarded the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan Awards, will deliver a lecture and interact with the audience at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre tomorrow,” the Indian President wrote on the official social media handle while sharing the pictures.

Born in Haryana, the 33-year-old badminton player first came to prominence after winning the BWF World Junior Championships title in 2008 early in his career.

That same year he made his Olympic debut, but it took him another four years to win a medal at the Summer Olympics.

In 2008, Saina Nehwal achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian woman to reach the quarter-finals of the Olympic Games.

His outstanding achievements were recognized with the Arjuna Award in 2009 and the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award in 2010.

Throughout her illustrious career, the shuttler has represented India in various prestigious badminton tournaments, winning numerous trophies and medals. She has the distinction of being the only Indian player to achieve the world No. 1 ranking in the sport, thus revolutionising badminton in the country.

Saina Nehwal's impact extends beyond her personal achievements, as she has inspired many athletes and youth across the country to strive for excellence in their endeavours.

Article tag: Saina Nehwal, India