Saina Nehwal

[Krisna]

Jakarta's Istora crowd totally supported Saina today... :) I wonder whether her own countrymen will support her with such a huge roaring boost like today...

[Zabee]

well i heard that apart from Cricket & Hockey ( which ow in a sorry state ) , the Indians people migth switch to Badminton....

[Oldhand]

..she might be playing at home & in front of her home crowd support, but at the same time she might be facing a different sort of pressure playing in front of them..
Well, she has already proved her confidence in front of a home crowd.
She won the World Junior Badminton title playing in India, didn't she? :)

[Krisna]

Well, she has already proved her confidence in front of a home crowd.
She won the World Junior Badminton title playing in India, didn't she? :)

Yes, that's true. And oh, the look of the Indian fans today just said it all... They were ecstatic beyond belief... as though India had won the Cricket's top prize or something... :p They should switch to badminton! :cool: We need more worldwide fans [and strong support in maintaining badminton as an Olympic sport]... :D

[ctjcad]

Well, she has already proved her confidence in front of a home crowd.
She won the World Junior Badminton title playing in India, didn't she? :)
..she did win the WJC title. But then again, she is head and shoulder way above the rest of the top junior players....Anyway, let us wait and see what she'll do in this yr's WC..

[copadh]

Yes, that's true. And oh, the look of the Indian fans today just said it all... They were ecstatic beyond belief... as though India had won the Cricket's top prize or something... :p They should switch to badminton! :cool: We need more worldwide fans [and strong support in maintaining badminton as an Olympic sport]... :D

After press conf, a group of 5 or 6 Indian men (I thought they're the same group who gave her an indian flag after the match) came down and stop her in front of press conf room. They gave her some chocolate bars as a gift (Silver Queen and Toblerone, they bought it instantly after the match in Istora minimart, for sure!) and offered a can of coffee candy to her.

The oldest man, a nearly bald-grey haired man, said to her, "Please take this as a gift from us, on behalf Indian community in Jakarta. Congratulation, you're really make us proud being Indian."

Saina was speechless... But I could see she really touched with that spontaneous gift.

[Oldhand]

For Mr Harvir Singh, it's also a Daughter's Gift on Fathers' Day (http://cricket.ndtv.com/cricket/ndtvcricket/storypage.aspx?id=SPOEN20090098307) :)

[copadh]

In my view of her plays in the Final against WL, Saina seems to have good talents; she played very smart! Very promising in WS future. :)

She's a smart girl, indeed, not only inside the court. The way she speaks, answering questions, and express what she think, show it. Main threat for CHN WS in the future.

[ctjcad]

... I think SN will go on to win more tournaments with the guidance of her coach Gobichand, the former All-E MS champion. .

..she was under the direction of Atik (Atiek) Jauhari when she won the recently concluded Indonesian Open SS. Atik is also a former coach of Boonsak Ponsana.

http://sports.rediff.com/report/2009/jun/21/my-best-win-says-saina-indonesian-open.htm
================================================== ========
June 21, 2009
'It has to be my best win'

Moments after pulling off the biggest title victory of her career, Saina Nehwal http://im.rediff.com/sports/2009/jun/21saina-nehwal1.jpg said the triumph at the Indonesian Super Series was a "dream come true" but never expected it to come at such an early age.

World No 8 Saina beat No 3 Chinese Lin Wang 12-21, 21-18, 21-9 in a 49-minute hard-fought summit showdown in Jakarta.

"It is a dream come true for me, it couldn't have been better. I am elated, excited and shocked as well. I always wanted to win a Super series but I have never thought I will win it at such an early age," she said.

"I was playing well all these months but losing close matches against top ranked players, so it was a little difficult to believe that I have actually won. It took time for realisation to sink in," she said from Jakarta.

At the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy in Hyderabad, Saina put in umpteen hours as part of a strict daily training regimen and the 20-year-old player says she is happy that the hard work has finally paid off.

"I have always believed in working hard and have given everything in training and during the matches, and so I feel extremely happy and proud of my achievement," she said.

The Hyderabad-based girl, who won the Chinese Taipei Grand Prix Gold tournament in September, ranked the Indonesian Open title as her best ever performance till date.

"It has to be my best win because I have defeated two Chinese players in this tournament. There was Lan Lu, whom I defeated in straight games and then here today against Wang I rallied well and beat her under 10 points in the third game," Saina said.

Saina thanked her Indonesian coach Atik Jauhari for devising proper strategy for her so that she could win over Wang.
http://im.rediff.com/sports/2009/jun/21sld-saina3.jpg

"The Indonesian supporters have been very supportive and I am thankful to coach, who gave me a very good plan as how to go about my match. The plan fell perfectly in place as she was under pressure," she said.

Saina is now eyeing the World Championship and a place in the top five.

"I want to break into the top five now, but my first priority is the World Championship in Hyderabad in August. I want to work harder and perform better with each match," she said.

Saina will next feature in the Malaysian Open Grand Prix Gold tournament, starting on June 23.

[robin7]

http://i0.sinaimg.cn/ty/o/p/2009-06-21/U333P6T12D4444074F44DT20090621174420.jpghttp://i2.sinaimg.cn/ty/o/p/2009-06-22/U347P6T12D4445219F44DT20090622104833.jpghttp://i2.sinaimg.cn/ty/o/p/2009-06-21/1245580100_nHnSqo.jpg

[jaydeep]

After press conf, a group of 5 or 6 Indian men (I thought they're the same group who gave her an indian flag after the match) came down and stop her in front of press conf room. They gave her some chocolate bars as a gift (Silver Queen and Toblerone, they bought it instantly after the match in Istora minimart, for sure!) and offered a can of coffee candy to her.

The oldest man, a nearly bald-grey haired man, said to her, "Please take this as a gift from us, on behalf Indian community in Jakarta. Congratulation, you're really make us proud being Indian."

Saina was speechless... But I could see she really touched with that spontaneous gift.
Thanks copadh (http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/member.php?u=31269), for sharing this interesting info.

[Ningtyas]

Congrats, Saina!
You will be the next Susi Susanti (non-chinese top WS player); winning WC and Olympic gold is within your reach, I believe.

btw I found an intersting picture of Saina here with Mr Huangkwokhau in the background.
http://foto.detik.com/read/2009/06/21/214428/1151612/463/dari-podium-indonesia-open

Again, congrats to Saina

[Zabee]

she's just 19...i believe many more glories will come ...China trops beware from now...

[Jagdpanther]

she's just 19...i believe many more glories will come ...China trops beware from now...
India has only one competitive WS so far: Saina.
While China...well, a legion.
India needs 2 or 3 more good WSs to give enough threat to China WS force...

[cooler]

Monday, 22 June 2009

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BAI announces cash award for Saina

New Delhi: Badminton Association of India (BAI) president V.K Verma has announced a cash award of Rs.2 lakh for Saina Nehwal for her title triumph in the Indonesia Super Series Sunday.

"Saina Nehwal's title win in Indonesia is a moment to cherish for Indian badminton. We have announced a cash incentive of Rs.2 lakh for Saina," Verma said.

"She has been the flag-bearer for Indian sport in the world. Like Prakash Padukone and then Pullela Gopichand, Saina has emerged as an icon for youngsters. Indian badminton will gain from her achievements at the international level," Verma said.

Verma said a lot of young players have come up in the junior ranks and Indian badminton is looking up.

"There are many junior players who have performed well at the international level recently and we are hopeful that in the coming years the sport will achieve more success at the international level."

Verma also thanked the Sports Ministry for their support in providing training and sending the players abroad.

Source: IANS

[swapnilsauti]

Hey can ny1 giv me d link of d video of that match -saina in finals in indonesian open...

[eaglehelang]

Hey can ny1 giv me d link of d video of that match -saina in finals in indonesian open...
http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=71895
for English commentary

http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=71877
for Mandarin commentary

It's under WS finals. In future, you can refer the video sharing thread for uploads.

[Dato A]

Congrats, Saina!
You will be the next Susi Susanti (non-chinese top WS player); winning WC and Olympic gold is within your reach, I believe.

btw I found an intersting picture of Saina here with Mr Huangkwokhau in the background.
http://foto.detik.com/read/2009/06/21/214428/1151612/463/dari-podium-indonesia-open

Again, congrats to Saina

Too early........Only 1 win in the SS and you put her with The Legendary Susi Susanti, WC and OG??:eek:

[Zabee]

yes we never knows who will be suprsing us next ? but no party can dominate a category most of the time........

[ctjcad]

Too early........Only 1 win in the SS and you put her with The Legendary Susi Susanti, WC and OG??:eek:
;)..The world is waiting for the next Susy Susanti or Ye Zhaoying or Tang Jiuhong..

[chris-ccc]

.
CONGRATULATIONS TO SAINA !!! :):):)

Saina would be moving into the Top 5 WS World Ranking soon.
.

[Ningtyas]

Too early........Only 1 win in the SS and you put her with The Legendary Susi Susanti, WC and OG??:eek:

Yes I believe so. She is fearless, has a very strong desire to win, she believes in hard work, and she's a smart and fast learner too. Susi Susanti also had all that traits.

Saina is still so young, if she fails to grab WC title this year she will still have many years ahead ia. I believe she will achieve what Susi once achieved. I hope she proves me right. Lets just see how she progress.

[limsy]

India has only one competitive WS so far: Saina.
While China...well, a legion.
India needs 2 or 3 more good WSs to give enough threat to China WS force...

aditi and sikki is growing,just wait:p

[lexluthor1975]

just to check how she has improved, i watched her game against Maria Kristin Yulianti in the OG quarterfinals. Gill Clark is right, her net play has improved a lot. in fact, i think it's one factor that she won the game. she is just better than Wang Lin at the net. also she is more patient now, specially in the rubber game, slowly setting her up for the winner. in the OG quarters, she's just too impatient trying to kill the shuttle immediately. well, i look forward to her winning more major tournaments in the future so that it won't just be China dominating the women's singles event....

[ways2rock]

Yes I believe so. She is fearless, has a very strong desire to win, she believes in hard work, and she's a smart and fast learner too. Susi Susanti also had all that traits.

Saina is still so young, if she fails to grab WC title this year she will still have many years ahead ia. I believe she will achieve what Susi once achieved. I hope she proves me right. Lets just see how she progress.

The commentator of Trans 7 said Saina trained since she was 8. her training was pretty hard and full of discipline- she ran nearly 50km everyday, according to the commentator.
She sure want it so bad; I am moved by her determination and hardcore will!


just to check how she has improved, i watched her game against Maria Kristin Yulianti in the OG quarterfinals. Gill Clark is right, her net play has improved a lot. in fact, i think it's one factor that she won the game. she is just better than Wang Lin at the net. also she is more patient now, specially in the rubber game, slowly setting her up for the winner. in the OG quarters, she's just too impatient trying to kill the shuttle immediately. well, i look forward to her winning more major tournaments in the future so that it won't just be China dominating the women's singles event....

I agree. Wang Lin is quite impatient on long rallies... and I notice she has a lot of openings here and there for Saina to attack, while Saina just stay calm and collected, find the right place to direct the shuttlecock, play great netting... and there she is. Patience do pay off in her case.

[Loh]

The Hindu
June 22, 2009

Bangalore (IANS): Saina Nehwal, the 19-year old from Hyderabad, is currently the "most complete player" in Indian badminton and has the making of a World No.1, says 1980 All-England champion and former World No.1 Prakash Padukone.

Speaking to IANS here on Monday, Padukone said that Saina, who won a Super Series tournament in Indonesia defeating two top Chinese stars, has all the attributes to become a World champion provided she keeps her focus on her game.

Considering that Saina is just 19, Padukone felt that she can improve further. "She is the most complete player in Indian badminton now. Saina has an all-round game. She thinks and plays, and I feel, it is a lesson for all our top Indian players. All she needs to do now is to maintain her focus and work hard," he said.

Padukone cautioned against getting swept away by the euphoria and accolades. "Yes, people are bound to celebrate and let them. The media will be after her, but they are only doing their job. Her job is to concentrate on her game. If she does that, I am certain she will become World No.1," he commented.

The 54-year old maestro who runs an academy here, felt that Saina, presently ranked No.8 in the World and likely to improve her position by a couple of slots following her Indonesian triumph, has the three fundamental attributes that makes her a champion material.

"The three things that set her apart are the physical fitness, a sound technique and mental toughness. She is fearless and plays to her strength, like she did in the final yesterday. I watched the third game and I thought she played quite brilliantly.

"She was very strong at the net and used the dribble effectively as also some deception. In fact, the Chinese girl (World No.3 Wang Lin) looked totally out of place. I am trying to get a copy of the tape to show it to my wards at the academy," he said.

Initially trained by Md. Arif and subsequently Pullela Gopi Chand, the 2001 All-England champion, Saina is undoubtedly the best woman badminton player India has produced, said Padukone referring to yesteryear stars like Madhumita Bisht (nee Goswamy) in the 1980s and Aparna Popat in the 1990s, both of whom showed rich promise but never quite made the grade at the highest level.

"Madhumita was fast and fit, but mentally not tough enough. She did not get much international exposure. Aparna was technically very good, but she got down to physical fitness rather late when she was 16. In comparison, Saina is much fitter than the other two, more determined and definitely fearless. She is not concerned about her opponent's reputation unlike most Indian players," he opined.

Looking ahead and reflecting on his own experience, Padukone said that Saina would now be under more pressure. "The expectations would be much higher now. I can say from my experience that staying at the top is more difficult than getting there. She should not worry about her ranking or points, but focus on excellence. The rest, like awards and accolades, will come automatically," he pointed out.

Asked whether Saina should play in domestic tournaments or shift her base abroad like he did by moving to Copenhagen, Denmark, after winning the All-England crown, Padukone said: "If she plays in home tournaments, the benefit is for Indian badminton. Obviously, her participation will be a big draw and will attract more sponsorship etc., and Indian players will gain by playing her.

"We have good infrastructure and facilities in India and so she need not shift her base abroad. It was different in my time. She has reached a stage where she only needs to ask and it will be given."

Padukone further hailed Saina's success as a huge boost for Indian badminton. "She is a role model for young Indian players," he said.

[Oldhand]

"[...]I am trying to get a copy of the tape to show it to my wards at the academy," he (Prakash Padukone) said. [...]
Our members in India should direct Padukone's attention to post#12 in this thread :D

[Dato A]

Yes I believe so. She is fearless, has a very strong desire to win, she believes in hard work, and she's a smart and fast learner too. Susi Susanti also had all that traits.

Saina is still so young, if she fails to grab WC title this year she will still have many years ahead ia. I believe she will achieve what Susi once achieved. I hope she proves me right. Lets just see how she progress.

Then you should also highlighted Wong Pei Xian from Malaysia also. She is also still young....

[Oldhand]

Then you should also highlighted Wong Pei Xian from Malaysia also. She is also still young....
That's Julia Wong, isn't it?
She is one up on Saina :)

[Zabee]

yea.. she is :)

[Cheung]

At the HK Open 2008, I watched Saina play again. A lot of improvement. Very determined to reach the shuttle. I noticed two weaknesses that time.

Mainly movement to either of the back corners. For the round the head shots, body turning movement was slow. Definitely some scope for improvement there. Moving to the forehand side, there were a few occasions where she could have taken an extra side step. However, for this aspect, I see a lot of top women's players are rather similar so I'm not sure if it can be regarded as a weakness.

Unfortunately, I missed this year's INA Open performance. But certainly it's great.

[Cheung]

Then you should also highlighted Wong Pei Xian from Malaysia also. She is also still young....Wong has got a busted knee. Realistically, expectations for her should be downgraded several notches.

[Ningtyas]

Then you should also highlighted Wong Pei Xian from Malaysia also. She is also still young....

Well there are many talented young girls in baddy world out there but Saina is special. Even the WBF named her "the Most Promising Player" in 2008. And little by little she shows us what she can. and I believe there is more to come.

Well, thats only my opinion. You dont have to agree with me. :)

[ctjcad]

...
Unfortunately, I missed this year's INA Open performance. But certainly it's great.
..Saina Nehwal vs. Wang Lin (2nd & 3rd games, the best)...Free, fast & no downloads necessary;):cool:
http://watchbadminton.com/djarum-indonesia-open-2009/women-singles/final-match/dab7d56a-a6e6-4c65-816a-d3e7b3525504/play.aspx?p=Part%201

[george@chongwei]

she's the current spotlight in bc now;)

[Zabee]

let's see how she fare in this week Malaysia GP Gold...

[ways2rock]

Keeping an eye on her, we are. Progressing, she must. Watch her closely, we should!

[george@chongwei]

let's see how she fare in this week Malaysia GP Gold...
she should be playing agaisnt mas wong mew choo in the quarter final..interesting to see what will happen:cool:

[Zabee]

not semis ?? anyhow this is great game....Wong M C needs to boost up in this one..

[chris-ccc]

not semis ?? anyhow this is great game....Wong M C needs to boost up in this one..



.
Sad that WMC was out of action because of her injuries in the last 6 months or so. It would take her awhile before she can make a stronger comeback.
.

[narnia]

In my view, while Wang Lin just moved by the basics, Saina did it by thinking. :)

[Oldhand]

Saina Nehwal told the media in India that she "is more popular in Indonesia and Malaysia (than in her home country)".

She also said the Malaysian cab driver refused to accept payment after ferrying her to the airport.

Now, that's indeed a very nice gesture! :)

The Times of India of 29 June 2009 (http://sports.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Other-Sports/Badminton/Im-more-popular-in-Indonesia--Malaysia-Saina/articleshow/4713667.cms) has excerpts from her interview.

[modious]

Fans of Saina Nehwal, I have uploaded her performance in the 2009 Indonesian Open Final for download.

You can refer to this thread ---> http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1200677

The video also includes the Prize Presentation Ceremony. :)

[Sealman]

Fans of Saina Nehwal, I have uploaded her performance in the 2009 Indonesian Open Final for download.

You can refer to this thread ---> http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1200677

The video also includes the Prize Presentation Ceremony. :)

great thanks! now i can learn from her footwork... :)

[modious]

great thanks! now i can learn from her footwork... :)

You are welcome. :)

Alternatively, you can watch it online. ;)
I've uploaded it to VEOH (http://www.veoh.com/). ----> http://www.veoh.com/browse/videos/category/sports/watch/v18686999fY57Ppjk

[Loh]

The Hindu
10 July 2009


MUMBAI: Badminton 45, an organisation devoted to taking badminton to the people, will present Saina Nehwal a cheque of Rs 2.5 lakh as part of a felicitation function for the Indian badminton star on Saturday. The honour is in recognition of her outstanding show at the Indonesian Open Super Series and subsequent rise to No.6 in the world women’s rankings.

Ms. Rajashree Birla will hand over the cheque at the Bombay Gymkhana.

Saina joins a galaxy of badminton achievers honoured by Badminton 45 in the past, among whom are Nandu Natekar, Prakash Padukone, P. Gopi Chand, Devinder Mohan, Prakash Nath, Dinesh Khanna, Meena Shah, Ami Shah and Rajeev Bagga.

The organisation supports junior talent by helping them get international exposure, apart from holding veterans events like the G.D. Birla Memorial veterans tournament since 1992 and National veterans tournament in association with Bombay Gymkhana.

Other players who have been honoured as promising juniors in the past by the organisation include Anand Pawar, Arup Vaidya, Divya Ramesh, Chetan Anand, Aparna Popat, Nikhil Kanetkar, Jwala Gutta, Amar Mohite, Ajit Pathak, Trupti Murgunde, Ajay Jayaram, Aditi Mutatkar, and Sachin Ratti.


(Just wonder how much is Rs 2.5 lakh in US Dollars. ;)

[Oldhand]

[...](Just wonder how much is Rs 2.5 lakh in US Dollars.) ;)
About USD 5,000.

[cooler]

interview with saina nehwal
part 1 of 11 parts
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHuZ61TAqlY&feature=related

[Ningtyas]

Saina Nehwal downs with Chicken Pox. Only few days before the world meet start.

Get well soon, girl

India star down with chicken pox ahead of Worlds (AFP) – 18 hours ago
NEW DELHI — World number six Saina Nehwal of India said on Thursday she could still play in next month's badminton world championships despite falling ill with chicken pox.
Nehwal, 19, told media in India she had been advised to take a week's rest after being diagnosed with chicken pox following a bout of fever last Saturday.
"I decided to see a doctor after pockmarks appeared on my body and he confirmed it was chicken pox," she said.
"I am very disappointed as the world championship is just around the corner. I will visit the doctor after a few days and see how things go.
"I should be okay in time for the tournament, but I have lost valuable practice time because I had been training really well for the last one month."
The world championships open in the southern Indian town of Hyderabad on August 10.
Nehwal hit the headlines last month when she won the Indonesian Open in Jakarta, the first Indian to bag a Super Series badminton title.
Former All-England champion Pullela Gopichand, who coaches Nehwal, said the teenager's participation in the tournament was still uncertain.
"These things happen in life, its sheer bad luck," said Gopichand. "The doctor said she just needs to take rest and that is what she is doing. We can only wait and see how she shapes up."
Copyright © 2009 AFP. All rights reserved.

[Oldhand]

Saina Nehwal downs with Chicken Pox. Only few days before the world meet start.

Get well soon, girl

India star down with chicken pox ahead of Worlds (AFP) – 18 hours ago
NEW DELHI — World number six Saina Nehwal of India said on Thursday she could still play in next month's badminton world championships despite falling ill with chicken pox.
Nehwal, 19, told media in India she had been advised to take a week's rest after being diagnosed with chicken pox following a bout of fever last Saturday.
"I decided to see a doctor after pockmarks appeared on my body and he confirmed it was chicken pox," she said.
"I am very disappointed as the world championship is just around the corner. I will visit the doctor after a few days and see how things go.
"I should be okay in time for the tournament, but I have lost valuable practice time because I had been training really well for the last one month."
The world championships open in the southern Indian town of Hyderabad on August 10.
Nehwal hit the headlines last month when she won the Indonesian Open in Jakarta, the first Indian to bag a Super Series badminton title.
Former All-England champion Pullela Gopichand, who coaches Nehwal, said the teenager's participation in the tournament was still uncertain.
"These things happen in life, its sheer bad luck," said Gopichand. "The doctor said she just needs to take rest and that is what she is doing. We can only wait and see how she shapes up."
Copyright © 2009 AFP. All rights reserved.

Hopefully she will be in the clear by the start of the championships.

Chickenpox is highly infectious and contagious, especially in a closed and crowded environment.

Although she will be past the 'infectious' stage when the WC opens, she might still be in the 'contagious' phase.

Chicken pox thrives on direct contact (like a handshake).
Umpires and fans (and opponents), beware :p

[Zabee]

don't worry chicken pox only happen once in our life :):)

[Loh]

in MSN
Friday, 31 July 2009


New Delhi: World No.6 Saina Nehwal is down with chicken pox, but she is confident of getting fit in time for the World Badminton Championships in Hyderabad from August 10.

Saina said she has been advised rest for four days after which she will be able to take a call on when to start training.

"I saw the doctor yesterday and they said it was chicken pox. I have been advised rest for four days, so there will be a break in my training, which was going well. But hopefully I will recover in time for the tournament," Saina told IANS on Thursday over phone from Hyderabad.

"I was running temperature for last 3-4 days, but today (Thursday) I do not have fever."

"My training will suffer a bit, but I hope I will still get some sessions to hit before the tournament," she said.

Saina's coach Pullela Gopichand, too, is hopeful that she would be fine for the elite event.

"She was not feeling well since Saturday. She is under treatment for the last four days. There is still some time left for the tournament and we are hoping that she will recover," Gopichand said.

"It is not an ideal situation, but you can't do much about these things. She is taking all precautions and hopefully she will be fit for the worlds."

Saina is India's biggest hope in the elite event. She had been riding high on form and won her maiden Super Series event in Indonesia last month.

The 19-year-old, who has got a bye in the first round, is banking on her home advantage to put up a strong performance.

Source: IANS

[Cheung]

Now that is just sheer bad luck. It's being too moptimistic to think she could put up a good showing.

[Loh]

Deccan Herald
Saturday 1 August 2009

Saina: smash hit of the season

After a dream run on the international front, Saina Nehwal is aiming the peak. India’s ace badminton player has her goals set and is raring to be on top of world. Ronita Torcato traces the young champ’s journey so far.


She is the World’s No. 6 and India’s current badminton queen and she earned the sobriquet the hard way. And now, with her self-confidence on a high, after bagging the Indonesian Open Super Series title at the Istora Senayan Stadium in Jakarta recently, there’s no stopping the young girl. Saina Nehwal is dreaming big; she’s dreaming of being “number one in the world”. And why not! There can be no looking back now.

On a rainy July evening, a little-known group called Badminton 45, which is dedicated to the promotion of the sport, got Rajashree Birla to present the Hyderabad-based 19-year-old a cheque of Rs 2.5 lakh at a crowded function hosted by the Bombay Gymkhana, a club formed in 1875 exclusively for Europeans, and remaining that way well into the 20th century — even Ranji was refused admission.

Felicitation and prizes for all-time badminton greats as well as rising stars are part of Badminton 45’s agenda. The members include ex-internationals Aparna Popat, Ami Shah, Leroy DSa, Pradeep Gandhe, the great Nandu Natekar, Prakash Padukone and Pullela Gopichand, India’s current coach of whom Saina says: “He is the best training partner I can get.”

Badminton 45 was formed when a few badminton players who quit competitive play wished to continue their association with their favourite sport. During the Sub Junior Nationals in Mumbai some years ago, Badminton 45 was impressed by a young girl who had advanced to four finals and won all four. It chose to honour the girl and named her the ‘Outstanding Player of the Year’. The girl was Saina Nehwal.

After winning the Philippines Open Grand Prix title in 2006 to announce her arrival on the world stage, Saina followed that victory by snatching the 2008 World Junior Championships in Pune.

On a roll

All in all, it’s been a dramatic journey of breathtaking feats: being adjudged the world’s most promising junior by the international body and becoming the first Indian to win a Super Series title on June 21, 2009 by shocking China’s brightest new star, world No. 3 Wang Lin 12-21, 21-18, 21-9. The victory, which was sweet revenge after losing to Lin in the Singapore Open just a few days earlier, marked the finest moment for Indian badminton since Gopichand won the All England title in 2001.

Saina now acknowledges that “the anxiety to win led to mistakes” and her defeat in the Beijing Olympics singles.

Saina’s maiden Super Series triumph in the Indonesian Open was a defining moment in many ways. She stunned two top Chinese players — former world No. 2 and seventh seed Lu Lan and 2007 junior world champion Wang Lin in the semi-finals and final, respectively while breaking her jinx against the girls from the Orient. The win now pits her as the one big threat to Chinese monopoly, a status enjoyed by Prakash Padukone throughout his career.

After her return from the Malaysian Open Grand Prix Gold where she lost to Chinese qualifier Xin Wang in the quarter-finals, Saina said she wished to be “among the top five by the end of this year.”

Her immediate target is the World Championship in Hyderabad in August, followed by tournaments in Chinese Taipei and Macau. And then of course, her dream to be world No. 1. “That will be difficult, but not impossible,” says Saina.

World No. 1 Zhou Mi (a former Chinese international now playing for Hong Kong), world No. 2 Tine Rasmussen of Denmark, world No. 6 Hongyan Pi (a Chinese-born French player) and Wong Mew Choo of Malaysia are the only players who have breached the ‘Great Wall of China’.

Rasmussen is in her late 20s, while Zhou Mi, Wang Chen of Hong Kong and Hongyan are on the wrong side of 30 and Choo has had recurring knee problems. In sum, then, Saina could be the lead player in taking on China, in the next decade.

Coach’s take

Pullela Gopichand says the Indonesian Open triumph will help Saina believe that she can now win big tournaments. “It will help her perform better in the World Championship. No matter what she achieves after this, she’ll be viewed differently — as a genuine top player from now on. Her mental toughness comes from a strong desire to win. She has it in her to be the best in the world. She should be more consistent and keep winning big tournaments. It is important now to have patience and give her time so that she can come up with some more stunning performances.”

[Zabee]

hope Saina will be able to play in wc....

[anirban]

.
Harvir

Sir, How is she now? I think still there may be some physical weakness due to Chicken-Pox. Are the doctors giving any suggestions regarding participation in coming international tournament? We want our Badminton IKON to be fit and healthy at first instead of the trophy... Plz. tell her that me, one of her fans and elder brothers, is praying for her good health in this festival of Rakhsha-Bandhan.
Saina, Get Well Soon!

[chris-ccc]

Saina, Get Well Soon!



.
Saina Nehwal returned to practice on Monday 03-Aug-2009 to prepare for the 2009 World Championships.
Source: http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Fit-again-Saina-returns-to-practice/497701

Shivani Naik
Tuesday 04-Aug-2009
Mumbai

For all the challenges that Saina Nehwal has managed to brave on a badminton court, returning from a bout of mild chicken pox with a world championship only a week away is an altogether different proposition.

As Nehwal returned to practice on Monday at coach P Gopichand’s academy after having given the irritation a week to subside, she spoke of the mental fortitude that sets her apart. “I know sportspersons who, in a similar situation, would have given up, lost hope. But I’m mentally very strong and was always prepared to go back on court and give my best. I never gave not playing a thought,” she said after training for an hour on Monday and sounding unperturbed about the lost time.

“It felt good to come back, in fact I really enjoyed it out there. It’ll take two-three days to get my rhythm back, but I’m feeling alright now, and there’s no problem. Today I didn’t feel exhausted,” she said.
.

[suetyan]

.
Saina Nehwal returned to practice on Monday 03-Aug-2009 to prepare for the 2009 World Championships.
Source: http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Fit-again-Saina-returns-to-practice/497701

Shivani Naik
Tuesday 04-Aug-2009
Mumbai

For all the challenges that Saina Nehwal has managed to brave on a badminton court, returning from a bout of mild chicken pox with a world championship only a week away is an altogether different proposition.

As Nehwal returned to practice on Monday at coach P Gopichand’s academy after having given the irritation a week to subside, she spoke of the mental fortitude that sets her apart. “I know sportspersons who, in a similar situation, would have given up, lost hope. But I’m mentally very strong and was always prepared to go back on court and give my best. I never gave not playing a thought,” she said after training for an hour on Monday and sounding unperturbed about the lost time.

“It felt good to come back, in fact I really enjoyed it out there. It’ll take two-three days to get my rhythm back, but I’m feeling alright now, and there’s no problem. Today I didn’t feel exhausted,” she said.
.
glat to hear that :D

[anirban]

.
Saina Nehwal returned to practice on Monday 03-Aug-2009 to prepare for the 2009 World Championships.
Source: http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Fit-again-Saina-returns-to-practice/497701

Shivani Naik
Tuesday 04-Aug-2009
Mumbai

For all the challenges that Saina Nehwal has managed to brave on a badminton court, returning from a bout of mild chicken pox with a world championship only a week away is an altogether different proposition.

As Nehwal returned to practice on Monday at coach P Gopichand’s academy after having given the irritation a week to subside, she spoke of the mental fortitude that sets her apart. “I know sportspersons who, in a similar situation, would have given up, lost hope. But I’m mentally very strong and was always prepared to go back on court and give my best. I never gave not playing a thought,” she said after training for an hour on Monday and sounding unperturbed about the lost time.

“It felt good to come back, in fact I really enjoyed it out there. It’ll take two-three days to get my rhythm back, but I’m feeling alright now, and there’s no problem. Today I didn’t feel exhausted,” she said.
.
It is really nice to hear this that She is back to court again. Thanks for the info, chris@ccc.
Best of Luck to Saina! Good Luck to Us --- Indian Badminton Freaks.

[george@chongwei]

Yes, she's back to training now.
Hope she will be in the best condition ahead of the WC.;)

[george@chongwei]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vK1JBK0pK0U

[cooler]

India's badminton player Saina Nehwal (R) receives the "Arjuna" award from India's President Pratibha Patil (L) during the sports and adventure awards ceremony at the presidential palace in New Delhi August 29, 2009. Nehwal was conferred the award for her achievements in the field of badminton.
REUTERS/B Mathur (INDIA SPORT BADMINTON SOCIETY)

[ctjcad]

..to say the Datukship, but more in the athletic field??..Should we call her now Arjun Saina Nehwal??..:confused:
* I heard the recipient will receive a cash prize of abt Rs. 500,000, a bronze statuette of Arjuna and a scroll.
** A few notable previous Arjuna Award winners in badminton were Chetan Anand, Gopichand Pullela, Aparna Popat, Anup Shridnar & Prakash Padukone

[cooler]

..
** A few notable previous Arjuna Award winners in badminton were Chetan Anand, Gopichand Pullela, Aparna Popat, Anup Shridnar & Prakash Padukoneoh no, i hope it's not a jinx. Isn't it the performance record of the above recipents declined after receiving their award?:eek:

[SibugiChai]

oh no, i hope it's not a jinx. Isn't it the performance record of the above recipents declined after receiving their award?:eek:

i think Prakash Padukone still performin quite well till retirement? :cool:

[Zabee]

congrulations...Saina

[george@chongwei]

so now, anyone wants to debate on this saina's arjuna(a.k.a Datukship:D) award?;):rolleyes:
lol, anyway, we should call her arjuna saina nehwal now:p

[Liz Leong]

India's badminton player Saina Nehwal (R) receives the "Arjuna" award from India's President Pratibha Patil (L) during the sports and adventure awards ceremony at the presidential palace in New Delhi August 29, 2009. Nehwal was conferred the award for her achievements in the field of badminton.
REUTERS/B Mathur (INDIA SPORT BADMINTON SOCIETY)

I like her a lot. I think she got talents and she is very pretty as well. ;)

[limsy]

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/Saina-named-sportsperson-of-the-year-by-Sports-magazine/articleshow/5348175.cms

congrates to her
is time to renew this thread:p

[limsy]

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/Saina-is-a-breath-of-fresh-air-in-badminton-Taufik/articleshow/5356671.cms

"Saina is like a breath of fresh air in women's singles which has been dominated by the Chinese and coach Gopichand has been a great guide for her. I feel with Gopichand around, Saina will get the best tips and guidance which will help her perform and prolong her life in the court," Taufik said.

[limsy]

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/My-wins-have-changed-worlds-perception-towards-India-Saina/articleshow/5358086.cms

"I never take my opponents as Chinese or Indonesian. But I feel with me winning more against them, the perception of the Chinese and the whole world towards India has changed," Saina said.

"It has also given other countries the confidence that we can also beat the Chinese. So it is not only about India but it has also inspired other countries to beat the Chinese in their game," she added.

[vpsingh]

so now, anyone wants to debate on this saina's arjuna(a.k.a Datukship:D) award?;):rolleyes:
lol, anyway, we should call her arjuna saina nehwal now:p

Arjuna award is given to only sport-person of some repute, so I don't think it is something like "Datukship". The equivalent awards in India are Padma awards (Padma-Shree, Padma-Bhushan) and the highest award Bharat Ratna.
And, no George, even after getting a award, she won't be called Arjuna Saina Nehwal, since as per Indian constitution, all prefixes apart from academic ( like Dr. or Engineer) and military (Cmdr., Maj. etc ) are illegal. :confused::confused:
So sadly she will remain Saina Nehwal:D:D
Anyway, I think she deserves this award because she has created a wave among Indian kids for badminton and she is a great model for Indian teenage girls.

[george@chongwei]

i see.. thanks for the info. vpsingh;)

[chris-ccc]

So sadly she will remain Saina Nehwal:D:D

Anyway, I think she deserves this award because she has created a wave among Indian kids for badminton and she is a great model for Indian teenage girls.



.
It should not be sad. Saina Nehwal should remain as Saina Nehwal.

Let's wait for Dr Harvir Singh, Saina Nehwal's father, a BCer himself, to come in - to give some comments. ;););)
.

[limsy]

http://www.dnaindia.com/sport/report_you-win-some-you-lose-some_1326160

The reigning world junior champion feels 2009 went according to her plans. "Barring the chicken pox I don't think there was much to complain about," said the world No. 8, who succeeded in just making the cut for the World Championships in Hyderabad after the bout of illness.
"I could have done better than quarterfinals in the worlds but given my condition I think I gave the best I could," she said.

[avataar]

saina with team mates at odense, i think!

[limsy]

Saina wants to inculcate winning habit before 2010 CWG

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/Saina-wants-to-inculcate-winning-habit-before-2010-CWG/articleshow/5499745.cms

A great moment in my life: Saina

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/A-great-moment-in-my-life-Saina/articleshow/5500709.cms

Saina Nehwal: The big hope of Indian badminton

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/Saina-Nehwal-The-big-hope-of-Indian-badminton/articleshow/5515803.cms

[george@chongwei]

I saw his father during the MAS Open this year. I think her father follows her to every tournaments that she go :)

[Loafers]

Happy Birthday Saina.

[Zabee]

today is Saina birthday ??

[limsy]

mean that she share same birthday with wong wing ki and woon khe wei?:eek:
happy birthday

[anirban]

Happy Birthday Saina!!! (belated)

[Loh]

CNN-IBN
Thu, Mar 18, 2010 at 14:52,

New Delhi: India's badminton ace Saina Nehwal created history to break into top five of the world badminton rankings at the All England Badminton Championship.

Saina is the first Indian woman to reach semifinals of the prestigious All England Open. However, she failed to qualify to the finals after she was beaten by Tine Rasmussen, the 2008 champion and 2009 runners-up.

After a great year in 2009, Saina told CNN-IBN: "It's been a great one year. I am really happy. It's with the support of my coach and family. My next target is to be in top 3."
"For me now is to stay focussed and concentrate on sports and work hard. I am happy with the support of the government and the sponsors. But yes, many talented people do not get support at right time," she added.

"Everything is happening so fast in my profession. It's like a dream come true. I still have a long way to go," she further said about her future plan.

Saina had already won the Indonesian Open Super Series Tournament in 2009 and reached the semifinals of the World Super Series Masters, apart from the quarters in a number of tourneys including the World Championships, Malaysian Open, Denmark Open, French Super Series, Swiss Open, Indian Open and Singapore Open in 2009.

[chris-ccc]

CNN-IBN
Thu, Mar 18, 2010 at 14:52,

New Delhi: India's badminton ace Saina Nehwal created history to break into top five of the world badminton rankings at the All England Badminton Championship.



.
Saina Nehwal created history to break into top five of the world badminton rankings.

Well Done Saina !!! :):):)
.

[limsy]

congrates saina:D
u had done a great job in all england

[CLELY]

Yeah, congrats to Saina, thanks to her good run in last week AE, lost to eventual winner Tine Rasmussen at semifinal. Highest WR so far for Saina, well done!

[sting1988]

I can't help but to notice that SN always looks so angry...seems like she wants to bash all her opponents lol now I feel chilling watching her matches :(

[chris-ccc]

I can't help but to notice that SN always looks so angry...seems like she wants to bash all her opponents lol now I feel chilling watching her matches :(



.
That's because SN is always serious whenever she is playing against an opponent. It's her determination to win a match. :):):)

But when you get to meet her as a friend (in person), you will find that she is very sweet and friendly.
.

[cooler]

indian women need to eat all kind of foods:p
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-3cwYYYyfM

[Fan888]

indian women need to eat all kind of foods:p
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-3cwYYYyfM

Aah! That is the secret to success revealed :D

[avataar]

this year my focus is to train hard and play less tournaments - saina's comments minutes after her 1st rd win at the BAC

[SibugiChai]

It's all or nothing in Nehwal's quest to be best in the world

World's number ten badminton player dreams of Olympic gold
http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/saina-nehwal-1.618578%21image/1992265904.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_475/1992265904.jpg
The world’s No 10 best badminton player Saina Nehwal at the BITS Pilani, Dubai.
Image Credit: Abdel-krim Ka llouche/Gulf News
Dubai: It has always been 100 per cent or nothing for Saina Nehwal.

She knew she couldn't serve two masters at the same time so she chose to set her books aside and pursue a career in badminton instead.

A decision to place anything above studying in a degree-hungry country such as India is sure to be frowned upon.

However, her stunning results and rise to number five in the world rankings have proved that Nehwal has indeed exercised good judgment in choosing the court over the classroom.

At 20, she is easily India's most successful sportswoman with numerous coveted trophies, including the BWF Super Series Indonesia Open and two Commonwealth Youth Games titles in her display cabinet.

"I wanted to focus on one thing and that's why I gave up [on studies after 12th Grade]," Nehwal said.

"The game is more important and that's what I want to focus on right now.

"When I am done with playing I will think about graduating."
Nehwal was recently the guest of honour at the prize giving ceremony of the seventh BITS Sports Festival at BITS Pilani, Dubai.

"My father is a scientist and he wanted me to take up medicine, but after playing well at a young age and representing India at the Olympics, and reaching the top eight in the world and then number five, everything seemed to be happening so good that I don't want to change a thing or even focus on anything other than badminton."

Nehwal said the next few years would be crucial to her career as she hoped to improve her world ranking and add to her dazzling list of successes.

"Five years from now I see myself as the world number one; as someone who has won the world championship — won the Olympics and Commonwealth Games, as someone who has won everything" she said.

"I believe I have the potential to do that because of the way I am playing against all the top players.

"I have been beating them regularly. If I work hard I know I will win good tournaments.

"An Olympic gold has always been my dream. I think I got ahead of myself and started thinking of the semis instead of focusing on my quarter-final match when I drew a blank and lost [at the 2008 Beijing Games]. When you really want something, sometimes you don't get it."

A semi-finalist at this year's All England Championships, Nehwal said her current coach Pullela Gopichand had a big hand in her transformation into an "international-level" player.

"I've been with him for the last four to five years," she said.

"I was a no-one a few years back, but he helped me improve. I was good at smashing and playing that fast, aggressive game, but he helped me with the good strokes."

Fact file
Name: Saina Nehwal
Date of birth: March 17, 1990
Height: 5ft 5in
Nationality: India
Style: Right-handed
Highest ranking: World No5
Current ranking: World No 10
Major tournaments won: BWF Super Series Indonesia Open (2009); Commonwealth Youth Games (2004, 2008); Philippines Open (2006); Yonex Chinese Taipei Open (2008); World Junior Badminton Championship (2008)

[chris-ccc]

However, her stunning results and rise to number five in the world rankings have proved that Nehwal has indeed exercised good judgement in choosing the court over the classroom.

"I wanted to focus on one thing and that's why I gave up [on studies after 12th Grade]," Nehwal said.

"The game is more important and that's what I want to focus on right now.

"My father is a scientist and he wanted me to take up medicine, but after playing well at a young age and representing India at the Olympics, and reaching the top eight in the world and then number five, everything seemed to be happening so good that I don't want to change a thing or even focus on anything other than badminton."

Nehwal said the next few years would be crucial to her career as she hoped to improve her world ranking and add to her dazzling list of successes.

"I believe I have the potential to do that because of the way I am playing against all the top players.

"I have been beating them regularly. If I work hard I know I will win good tournaments.

"An Olympic gold has always been my dream. I think I got ahead of myself and started thinking of the semis instead of focusing on my quarter-final match when I drew a blank and lost [at the 2008 Beijing Games]. When you really want something, sometimes you don't get it."


Fact file
Name: Saina Nehwal
Date of birth: March 17, 1990
Height: 5ft 5in
Nationality: India
Style: Right-handed
Highest ranking: World No5
Current ranking: World No 10
Major tournaments won: BWF Super Series Indonesia Open (2009); Commonwealth Youth Games (2004, 2008); Philippines Open (2006); Yonex Chinese Taipei Open (2008); World Junior Badminton Championship (2008)


.
Our lives are usually determined by our dreams. We usually follow that dream which makes us happier.

It looks like Saina is happy continuing with Badminton.

Let us wish that Saina can make more of her dreams come true.
.

[SibugiChai]

.
Our lives are usually determined by our dreams. We usually follow that dream which makes us happier.

It looks like Saina is happy continuing with Badminton.

Let us wish that Saina can make more of her dreams come true.
.

lotta people follow their dream but it turns out to be nightmares...

[chris-ccc]

lotta people follow their dream but it turns out to be nightmares...



.
If our dreams have not come true, and/or do not make us happier, then we need to follow another dream.
.

[CLELY]

Badminton: Saina's Dubai desire

World No. 6 tells XPRESS she hopes to play here in the near future after her first visit to the city

By Jaydip Sengupta, Sports Writer
Published: 00:00 April 29, 2010

Dubai: Saina Nehwal was back in school...well, college for a few hours at least. Dropping in for a quick visit to grace the BITS Sports Festival at BITS Pilani, the World No. 6 shuttler regaled students to three games of exhibition stuff, as they cheered her every move.

She was scheduled to play just one game, but so caught up was she with the mood of the occasion that she extended her stint on the court.

In a courtside chat to XPRESS, she said: "Their enthusiasm is so infectious. It is really sad that Dubai doesn't have any international tournament, or a badminton federation for that matter. I would love to play here some day.

"But at least BITS Pilani, Dubai have invited me. The one in India still haven't," she said, on what was her first visit to Dubai.

Saina's stay was short, but she still managed to take in a bit of the city. "I always wanted to see the world's tallest building and I managed to do so on my way from the airport," she said.

The 20-year-old, who cracked the top five earlier this year, is just biding her time, as she seeks to be the best player in the world. "All those above me are from China. They play against themselves all the time in order to get better. I am all alone in that respect in India, with no other player in sight. So, I have to keep playing matches against them.

---------------------------------

*Full article : gulfnews.com -- http://gulfnews.com/sport/other-sports/badminton-saina-s-dubai-desire-1.619324

[chris-ccc]

The 20-year-old, who cracked the top five earlier this year, is just biding her time, as she seeks to be the best player in the world. "All those above me are from China. They play against themselves all the time in order to get better. I am all alone in that respect in India, with no other player in sight. So, I have to keep playing matches against them.

---------------------------------

*Full article : gulfnews.com -- http://gulfnews.com/sport/other-sports/badminton-saina-s-dubai-desire-1.619324



.
Saina could get top IND Mens Singles to play against her. IMHO, Saina is luckier than LCW, PG, TH, and many others in that respect.

Think positive Saina. You can do it !!! :):):)
.

[SibugiChai]

.
Saina could get top IND Mens Singles to play against her. IMHO, Saina is luckier than LCW, PG, TH, and many others in that respect.

Think positive Saina. You can do it !!! :):):)
.

We need to break China dominance in order for badminton to survive...

WOMEN POWER!!!!!!!!!

[limsy]

http://thestar.com.my/sports/story.asp?file=/2010/6/20/sports/6508530&sec=sports

[chris-ccc]

.
It's great to find Saina Nehwal winning the 2010 Singapore Open Womens Singles. http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif
.

[badMania]

Saina Nehwal just needs more consistency in terms of beating the other top CHN players like Wang Yihan (who has been losing left, right, and centre this year), Wang Xin, and Wang Shixian. Plus....one more European top-gun....Tine Rasmussen.

[Loh]

TODAY
05:55 AM Jun 21, 2010

India's Nehwal says Chinese women no longer as strong


by Low Lin Fhoong

SINGAPORE - Change is in the air, with signs pointing to a revolution in women's badminton.

Heading that revolution are the South Korean women's team, who upset the Chinese giants 3-1 in the Uber Cup finals for the first time in 12 years to lift the coveted trophy in Kuala Lumpur last month.

India's top female player Saina Nehwal, who won the Badminton World Federation's (BWF) Junior Championship in 2008, is another who has savoured the feeling.

The 20-year-old defeated China's Wang Lin (world No 4) at last year's Indonesia Open Super Series to clinch her first major senior title, and is currently the top-ranked non-Chinese shuttler at world No 6.

The newly-crowned India Open Grand Prix Gold winner gave fans back home much to cheer about yesterday, after clinching her second super series title at the Li Ning Singapore Open at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, with a 2-0 win over 16-year-old Tai Tzu Ying of Taiwan.

Victories over China's reigning world champion Lu Lan (world No 10) and Li Xuerui in Singapore have once again put her in the spotlight.

Nehwal, who was guided by 2001 All England winner Pullela Gopichand, is revelling in the attention and believes this could be the end of the Chinese women's stranglehold.

"The current players are not as strong as those like Zhang Ning, and their young ones are beatable," she said. "There is a lot of change in the game, and it's about time that happened. Everyone has good strokes, but it takes stamina and fitness to beat them.

"A lot of time in the women's game, players give up when they meet the top Chinese, but for me, even when I play the world No 1, I feel like a champion and that mentality has helped me," she added.

For her week-long effort at the Li Ling Singapore Open, the Indian took home the winner's cheque of US$15,000 ($20,700).

"This is one of my best performances and I'm happy with how I did today, but obviously the world champs in August are the next target," she said.

Nehwal heads to Jakarta to defend her title at the Indonesia Open this week.

On the cards later are the BWF World Championships, October's Commonwealth Game in New Delhi and November's Asian Games in Guangzhou.

And winning the Commonwealth Games gold in front of her home crowd will be special for the shuttler.

For now, Nehwal is just hoping to get some shopping done before she jets off to the Indonesian capital.

"I'm off to Mustafa (shopping centre) after this," she told MediaCorp.



Results (x denotes seeding):

Men's singles Sony Dwi Kuncoro (INA x7) bt Boonsak Ponsana (THA x4) 21-16, 21-16

Women's singles Saina Nehwal (IND x1) bt Tai Tzu Ying (TPE) 21-18, 21-15

Men's doubles Fang Chieh Min/Lee Sheng Mu (TPE) bt Howard Bach/Tony Gunawan (USA x8) 21-14, 21-15

Women's doubles Shinta Mulia Sari/Yao Lei (SIN) bt Kim Min Jung/Lee Hyo Jung (KOR x5) 21-17, 22-20

Mixed doubles Thomas Laybourn/Kamilla Rytter Juhl (DEN x2) bt Nova Widianto/Liliyana Natsir (INA x1) 21-12, 21-15


Some pictures of the final from my album.

[chris-ccc]

TODAY
05:55 AM Jun 21, 2010

India's Nehwal says Chinese women no longer as strong


by Low Lin Fhoong

SINGAPORE - Change is in the air, with signs pointing to a revolution in women's badminton.

......

Nehwal heads to Jakarta to defend her title at the Indonesia Open this week.

.....

.
Wish that Saina Nehwal could continue to do well at the 2010 Indonesia Open, after winning the 2010 Singapore Open. :):):)
.

[limsy]

http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/kr39-rm/Article

[robin7]

http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/saina-nehwal-1.618578%21image/1992265904.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_475/1992265904.jpg
She looks so pretty when she smiles. Seriously, she can even take part in Miss Universe Pageant with those make-up! lol

[robin7]

http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/kr39-rm/Article
The reporter mistyped Saina's name as Saina Mirza (Sania Mirza is an Indian tennis player)... lol

[chris-ccc]

She looks so pretty when she smiles. Seriously, she can even take part in Miss Universe Pageant with those make-up! lol
.
Saina Nehwal doesn't wear make-up when participating in Badminton tournaments.

Wonder where you get your info from? :confused::confused::confused:
.

[Loh]

After her QF victory over China's Li Xuerui, 21-17, 21-14, Saina Nehwal joined her teammates at the players section.

I was seated nearby and took some shots of her including that of a young fan asking for her autograph. :D

She did not put on any make-up and it did not matter as she was looking good. ;)

[SibugiChai]

My best is yet to come - Saina Nehwal

World's sixth-ranked badminton player attributes her rapid rise to fitness


By Gautam Bhattacharyya, Deputy Sports Editor
Published: 00:00 June 23, 2010
http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/gulf-news-logo-1.505033%21image/3510741613.gif_gen/derivatives/article_credit/3510741613.gif (http://gulfnews.com/)

http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/saina-nehwal-1.644927%21image/489555400.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_475/489555400.jpg

Saina Nehwal of India returns to Tai Tzu Ying of Taiwan during the women’s singles final at the Singapore Open Badminton Super Series last Sunday. Nehwal won the match 21-18, 21-15.
Image Credit: AP


Dubai: She may have just won two back-to-back titles, one of them the second Super Series title of her career, but Saina Nehwal is not the kind of sportswoman who rests on her laurels.
Currently ranked number six in the world, the 20-year-old is now poised for a leap at the top spot — but refuses to put a date to it.
"Yes, that's my goal and I want to give my 100 per cent towards it," Nehwal told Gulf News after winning the Singapore Open on Sunday.
Coming on the heels of her triumph in the Indian Open Grand Prix, the singleminded Nehwal continued on her hot streak in Singapore — scalping world champion Lu Lan of China in the semifinal before beating qualifier Tzu Ying Tai of Chinese Taipei for the title.
The Indonesian Open, which starts today, is her next target.
Remarkable progress
Earlier in March, the spunky Nehwal had achieved her highest ranking of number five before slipping a spot — but she said she didn't want to get bogged down too much by the business of rankings.
"My goal has been to always work harder and do better … I did not ever bother much about the rankings," she said.
Nehwal's progress has been remarkable since the sportswoman captured the imagination of the Indians by becoming the first Indian woman to make the quarter finals of Olympics in 2008.
This year has seen Nehwal ride the crest of a wave, starting with being chosen as the NDTV Indian Sportsperson of the Year ahead of the likes of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Viswanathan Anand and Leander Paes.
"Yes, it's been one of my best years on the circuit but I think my best is yet to come," Nehwal replied.
Her answers in interview revealed her personality: simple, no-nonsense and focused.
International title
Nehwal said it has been the improvement in her fitness which had made the difference to her campaigns this year.
Looking back, she said: "Firstly, I was quite relieved to win an international title at home but I want to win more such titles."
"In Singapore, I beat Lu in the semifinals and hence I have now beaten her twice within a year. It is a morale booster and should help me," Nehwal said.
As someone who takes enormous pride in representing her country, Nehwal said she was keenly looking forward to the multi-discipline events this year — the Commonwealth Games and then the Asian Games.
"I want to do better in the coming events," she said.
There is no doubt that Nehwal is the most happening sportswoman of her country at the moment — notwithstanding the return of Sania Mirza on the circuit.
However, she indicated that she wanted to wear that status lightly: "I feel elated and proud at all the love and affection of the people".
"However, I don't see myself as an icon but only a badminton player of India," she said.
Factfile


Date of birth: March 17, 1990
Place of birth: Hisar, Haryana, India
Height: 5ft 5in (1.65 metres)
Weight: 60kg (130 lb)
Country: India
Handedness: Right
Coach: Pullela Gopichand
Women's singles:
Highest ranking: 5
Current ranking: 6

Do you think Saina is the most happening female sports star in India right now? Can she make it to the number one spot this season?

[SibugiChai]

My best is yet to come - Saina Nehwal

World's sixth-ranked badminton player attributes her rapid rise to fitness


By Gautam Bhattacharyya, Deputy Sports Editor
Published: 00:00 June 23, 2010
http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/gulf-news-logo-1.505033%21image/3510741613.gif_gen/derivatives/article_credit/3510741613.gif (http://gulfnews.com/)

http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/saina-nehwal-1.644927%21image/489555400.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_475/489555400.jpg

Saina Nehwal of India returns to Tai Tzu Ying of Taiwan during the women’s singles final at the Singapore Open Badminton Super Series last Sunday. Nehwal won the match 21-18, 21-15.
Image Credit: AP


Dubai: She may have just won two back-to-back titles, one of them the second Super Series title of her career, but Saina Nehwal is not the kind of sportswoman who rests on her laurels.
Currently ranked number six in the world, the 20-year-old is now poised for a leap at the top spot — but refuses to put a date to it.
"Yes, that's my goal and I want to give my 100 per cent towards it," Nehwal told Gulf News after winning the Singapore Open on Sunday.
Coming on the heels of her triumph in the Indian Open Grand Prix, the singleminded Nehwal continued on her hot streak in Singapore — scalping world champion Lu Lan of China in the semifinal before beating qualifier Tzu Ying Tai of Chinese Taipei for the title.
The Indonesian Open, which starts today, is her next target.
Remarkable progress
Earlier in March, the spunky Nehwal had achieved her highest ranking of number five before slipping a spot — but she said she didn't want to get bogged down too much by the business of rankings.
"My goal has been to always work harder and do better … I did not ever bother much about the rankings," she said.
Nehwal's progress has been remarkable since the sportswoman captured the imagination of the Indians by becoming the first Indian woman to make the quarter finals of Olympics in 2008.
This year has seen Nehwal ride the crest of a wave, starting with being chosen as the NDTV Indian Sportsperson of the Year ahead of the likes of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Viswanathan Anand and Leander Paes.
"Yes, it's been one of my best years on the circuit but I think my best is yet to come," Nehwal replied.
Her answers in interview revealed her personality: simple, no-nonsense and focused.
International title
Nehwal said it has been the improvement in her fitness which had made the difference to her campaigns this year.
Looking back, she said: "Firstly, I was quite relieved to win an international title at home but I want to win more such titles."
"In Singapore, I beat Lu in the semifinals and hence I have now beaten her twice within a year. It is a morale booster and should help me," Nehwal said.
As someone who takes enormous pride in representing her country, Nehwal said she was keenly looking forward to the multi-discipline events this year — the Commonwealth Games and then the Asian Games.
"I want to do better in the coming events," she said.
There is no doubt that Nehwal is the most happening sportswoman of her country at the moment — notwithstanding the return of Sania Mirza on the circuit.
However, she indicated that she wanted to wear that status lightly: "I feel elated and proud at all the love and affection of the people".
"However, I don't see myself as an icon but only a badminton player of India," she said.
Factfile


Date of birth: March 17, 1990
Place of birth: Hisar, Haryana, India
Height: 5ft 5in (1.65 metres)
Weight: 60kg (130 lb)
Country: India
Handedness: Right
Coach: Pullela Gopichand
Women's singles:
Highest ranking: 5
Current ranking: 6

Do you think Saina is the most happening female sports star in India right now? Can she make it to the number one spot this season?

[ctjcad]

imo, she can make it to the top spot this season/yr (only 14,000 pts behind) if she keeps playing in more tourneys and finishing near the top (finishes around Semis Rd. as avg), just like how LCW has been doing it..and to do that, it'll go back to her new found key: her improved fitness..

[chris-ccc]

imo, she can make it to the top spot this season/yr (only 14,000 pts behind) if she keeps playing in more tourneys and finishing near the top (finishes around Semis Rd. as avg), just like how LCW has been doing it..and to do that, it'll go back to her new found key: her improved fitness..
.
Was hoping that Saina Nehwal would participate in our 2010 Australian Open GP.

Unfortunately, she won't be. :(:(:(
.

[johnjacob]

Saina is world number three now (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/Saina-Nehwal-breaks-into-top-3-of-world-rankings/articleshow/6086251.cms)!

[Cheung]

Watched some of the S'pore Open. Yes, definitely much fitter now. But I think speed on court can still improve - as in the acceleration.

This is good - it means we can look forward to even more from her.

[Cheung]

Watched some of the S'pore Open. Yes, definitely much fitter now. But I think speed on court can still improve - as in the acceleration.

This is good - it means we can look forward to even more from her.

[chris-ccc]

Saina is world number three now (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/Saina-Nehwal-breaks-into-top-3-of-world-rankings/articleshow/6086251.cms)!
.
Congratulations to Saina Nehwal !!! :):):)

Let us list the Top 7 Womens Singles Badminton players (as released by BWF today, Thursday 24-Jun-2010);

1. http://static.tournamentsoftware.com/images/flags/CHN.gif[CHN] Yihan Wang (http://bwf.tournamentsoftware.com/ranking/player.aspx?id=1527&player=108614)
2. http://static.tournamentsoftware.com/images/flags/CHN.gif[CHN] Xin Wang (http://bwf.tournamentsoftware.com/ranking/player.aspx?id=1527&player=116941)
3. http://static.tournamentsoftware.com/images/flags/IND.gif[IND] Saina NEHWAL (http://bwf.tournamentsoftware.com/ranking/player.aspx?id=1527&player=107881)
4. http://static.tournamentsoftware.com/images/flags/CHN.gif[CHN] Shixian WANG (http://bwf.tournamentsoftware.com/ranking/player.aspx?id=1527&player=108497)
5. http://static.tournamentsoftware.com/images/flags/CHN.gif[CHN] Wang Lin (http://bwf.tournamentsoftware.com/ranking/player.aspx?id=1527&player=109254)
6. http://static.tournamentsoftware.com/images/flags/CHN.gif[CHN] Jiang Yanjiao (http://bwf.tournamentsoftware.com/ranking/player.aspx?id=1527&player=109255)
7. http://static.tournamentsoftware.com/images/flags/CHN.gif[CHN] Lu Lan (http://bwf.tournamentsoftware.com/ranking/player.aspx?id=1527&player=109256)
.

[skchen]

I pick Saina Nehwal to win the DIO Super Series 2010 WS title.
If she does, it will be back to back to back wins in three consecutive tournaments (hattrick), a feat last achieved by Wang Yihan of China.

[chris-ccc]

I pick Saina Nehwal to win the DIO Super Series 2010 WS title.
If she does, it will be back to back to back wins in three consecutive tournaments (hattrick), a feat last achieved by Wang Yihan of China.
.
Hope so. :):):)

Hope that Saina Nehwal can win the 2010 Indonesia Badminton Super Series WS title.
.

[skchen]

I think SN will move up a notch in the new ranking to be released soon.
She is a real threat to the Chinese players and I pick her to win the Commonwealth Games WS in October 2010.

[ctjcad]

Saina really took advantage of the absence of a few top WS players, incl. those CHN's top players (although she beat a couple of CHN players in the S'pore Open) in the 3 consecutive tourneys..Time for her to go back, take a brief rest and start preparing for the WC (abt 2 months away)...Let's see if she can make another surprise in the upcoming WC..

[chris-ccc]

Hope that Saina Nehwal can win the 2010 Indonesia Badminton Super Series WS title.

.
So glad that Saina Nehwal won the 2010 Indonesia Badminton Super Series Womens Singles title. :):):)
.

[george@chongwei]

She really takes good advantage from the absence of chinese womens shuttlers beside Lu LAN in the spore open...by winning titles by titles..

she's really an iron lady:D..

whats next for her?;)

[Loh]

The Times of India
TNN, Jun 30, 2010, 02.47am IST

M Ratnakar,

HYDERABAD: Hundreds of sports lovers, several badminton players and sports administrators gathered at the Shamshabad airport at the break of dawn on Tuesday to receive Saina Nehwal who was returning home after accomplishing the rare feat of winning three back-to-back titles on the international circuit.

Drum beats reverberated through the airport much before Saina arrived and once she was sighted, there was an incessant rain of flowers from everywhere before she was brought to the city in a motorcade.

Saina seemed so thrilled at the reception that the normally shy player acknowledged the cheering fans without any inhibition, showing off her medals, accepting garlands and blowing kisses.

"I am proud to be an Indian sportswoman," Saina later said at a press conference held at her mentor, P Gopichand’s academy.

Though she insisted that she is not thinking too much about achieving the No. 1 world rank, Saina hinted that she has it in her to reach the summit. "If I can become No. 3, I can also become No. 1," she said refusing, however, to dwell more on the subject, by saying "At the moment, I still cannot believe that I’m No.3."

The protege thanked "Gopi Sir" whom she credited with creating a worldbeater out of her. "It’s only because of him I’m where I’m today," she said. Saina also thanked coach Bhaskar Babu, who accompanied her to all three tournaments. "The tactical advise of Bhaskar Sir was of great help. He also helped to study the game of opponents," she acknowledged. Incidentally, Bhaskar Babu was at hand even when she won her first major international title in the Philippines in 2006.

Saina reiterated that while her immediate goals were to do well at the Worlds, Commonwealth and Asian Games, her dream is to win a medal at the London Olympics. "My focus from now on is to stay injury-free and work on my fitness. If I can do that I think I have a chance to realise my dream."

Saina felt that areas of her game which needed improvement were the backhand and defence. "I need to work on these aspects. Basically, I am an attacking player but to do well at the international level I need to improve my defence."

Saina is aware of the difficulties in sustaining her ranking and feels that the answer lies in proper planning. "I know it is very tough to stay at the top, but careful selection of tournaments so that there is enough time for rest, rehabilitation and training, will give me better results. Anyway, my coach will take care of that," she said.


HBA announces cash award for Saina Nehwal

PTI, Jun 29, 2010, 09.05pm IST

JHAJJAR: Haryana Badminton Association (HBA) has announced a cash award of Rs 5 lakh for Hisar-born Saina Nehwal for her title triumph in the Indonesia Super Series this Sunday.

Decision to this effect was taken at an annual general body meeting of the association, held under the chairmanship of its president Devinder Singh, at Sewa Bhawan in Delhi.

"Saina has brought glory to the state and the country by winning the Indonesian Open Super Series title," said Manoj Sharma, Secretary of Jhajjar unit of the association.

Manjeet Singh, senior vice-president of the association, said, "Saina has become a role model for millions of Indian girls."

Saina recently rounded a hat-trick of international titles by defending Indonesian Open Super Series trophy in Jakarta.

Before winning in Jakarta, which was the 20-year-old's third Super Series title overall, Saina had won the Indian Open Grand Prix at home and the Singapore Open Super Series.

Meanwhile, the association, at its meeting, has also decided to organise 75th Senior National Badminton Championship from January 2 to 10 next year on the campus of Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) in Rohtak.

"Four high standard courts will be prepared for efficient and smooth conduct of the championship and players from all over India would be invited to take part in it," said the secretary, adding it would be the first time that the national championship would be organised in Haryana.


PM congratulates Saina for Indonesia Open Super Series win

PTI, Jun 27, 2010, 07.51pm IST

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday congratulated badminton sensation Saina Nehwal for winning the Indonesian Open Super Series at Jakarta, her third international title on a row.

"Saina has shown spirit, determination and skill in winning the championship, her third major international title in three weeks," Singh said.

The Prime Minister also said that Saina has done the country proud and is a role model for the youth.

World number three Saina, seeded top in the tournament as defending champion, defeated unseeded Sayaka Sato of Japan 21-19 13-21 21-11 to clinch the Indonesian Open, which is her third title in as many weeks.

The Hyderabadi had won the Indian Open Grand Prix Gold in Chennai, before triumphing the Singapore Open Super Series last week, which saw her reach career best ranking of world number three.

I can become world number one: Saina

PTI, Jun 29, 2010, 11.41am IST

HYDERABAD: After notching up an incredible hat-trick of international titles, ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal on Tuesday said she is confident of becoming the world's number one player soon.

Saina, who rounded a hat-trick of titles by defending her Indonesia Open Super Series trophy in Jakarta, said she would now have to work harder to improve her ranking from number three to one.

"Now it is important for me to work harder and win the next international events rather than concentrating on the ranking. If I can become number three, then I can also become number one," Saina said at a press conference.

"I enjoyed all the matches in the three tournaments. I was a little tired but was confident that I could do it. Finally I am happy that I have won three titles in a row. Now I want to win the upcoming tournaments," she added.

Before winning in Jakarta, which was the 20-year-old's third Super Series title overall, Saina had won the Indian Open Grand Prix at home and the Singapore Open Super Series Tournament.

"Last year it was tough for me to win the Indonesia Open and it was something special as it was my first Super Series title. But the recent one is special because I have won three tournaments in a row," said Saina.

[chris-ccc]

"Saina has shown spirit, determination and skill in winning the championship, her third major international title in three weeks," Singh said.

The Prime Minister also said that Saina has done the country proud and is a role model for the youth.

World number three Saina, seeded top in the tournament as defending champion, defeated unseeded Sayaka Sato of Japan 21-19 13-21 21-11 to clinch the Indonesian Open, which is her third title in as many weeks.


.
It's great to find that Saina Nehwal is now World No.3 in our BWF Womens Singles Ranking.
.

[SibugiChai]

Only 20yo... a bright future ahead of her if she can maintain injury free & discipline..

[vpsingh]

She should do well in the forthcoming Commonwealth Games at home and in Asian Games/World Championship later. Hope she can maintain her fitness and avoid exerting herself by playing selected tournaments.:)

[SibugiChai]

Badminton: Almost famous

It has taken Saina Nehwal three Super Series titles to gain celebrity status in India but she tells XPRESS her feet are still firmly grounded


By Jaydip Sengupta, Sports Writer
Published: 00:00 July 1, 2010
http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/xpress-1.440037%21image/3876943724.gif_gen/derivatives/article_credit/3876943724.gif (http://gulfnews.com/about-gulf-news/al-nisr-portfolio/xpress)
Reader comments (0) (http://gulfnews.com/sport/other-sports/badminton-almost-famous-1.648646#readersComments)

http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/saina-nehwal-1.648754%21image/2648191827.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_475/2648191827.jpg

Saina Nehwal
Image Credit: Xpress /Abdel-krim Kallouche


Dubai: The ringtone on her cell phone, lines from a popular Hindi number which roughly translated means "why do you always talk about money and why are you so obsessed with it" can't be further from Saina Nehwal's outlook in life. For someone with increasing riches, money is possibly the last thing on her mind, as world badminton's brightest star told XPRESS in an exclusive interview from Hyderabad following her incredible feat of winning a hat-trick of titles.
"I just found that song very funny, which is why it has become my ringtone, The fact that it talks about money has nothing to do with the way I look at life. I am not after money, I can tell you that," she said, after finally getting some free time to herself following a hectic day of being honoured, dealing with the media and, finally, sleep.
"I landed in Hyderabad on Tuesday morning and since then it has been a blur really. I finally managed to catch up on some sleep later in the day," Nehwal added, still sounding a bit tired.
And tired she might be after winning the Indian Open, Singapore Open and the Indonesian Open - the last two being Super Series events - in the space of three weeks.
More relief than joy
"After winning the first two events, I was already weary. My physio actually did a great job and I managed to get through in Indonesia and defend my title, so it was more of a relief in the end," she said.
So, which of the two Indonesian Open titles does she cherish more?
"The first Super Series title is always special and I beat the then world No 1 on the way. But this year's is more special given that it was my third tournament win in a row," she said.
Having already risen to World No 3, this series of victories seems to have finally made her a celebrity in her country. "Well, one Super Series title should have been enough, but I guess it needed three in a row for me to become that," she said, tongue-in-cheek, before adding: "That of course won't change me as a person. I will still remain the same, with my feet firmly on the ground."
You would tend to believe her given how excited she was to receive a message from fellow Hyderabadi, tennis player Sania Mirza. "That was very sweet of Sania, sending a text to congratulate me," she said.
For now, it's rest and thereafter, it's the world championships where she will get to meet more of the Chinese. "I have almost cracked the Chinese puzzle. I always believed it is possible to beat them, I just had to be patient. I have improved on my stamina and defence and I now need to strengthen my net game to make that final jump. I am not overly concerned about the No 1 ranking since winning tournaments will take care of that," she said.
Rising graph


The Indonesian Open was Nehwal's third Super Series title, having won the same title last year and the Singapore Open this year
Nehwal's career best ranking of No 3 sees her sandwiched between six Chinese players at the top
Her cumulative earnings from the three consecutive tournament wins this year amounted to over $42,000 (Dh154,000)

[george@chongwei]

whoah. saina nehwal having make up eh?/;)

[CLELY]

I am not perfect: Saina

RUPAM JAIN, Jul 3, 2010, 12.00am IST

Confesses shuttle queen and World No 3 Saina Nehwal in an interview to us

------------------------------------------

Excerpts from an interview:

I’m not perfect
Ever since she went on a winning spree last year, she has been expected to continue doing well. And now that she has won three international tournaments in a row, there’s bound to be more expectations from her fans. “I appreciate that people believe in me, but at the same time, I would like to say that I am not perfect. Every sportsperson needs to keep growing, there is no end to that. To consider that I am perfect only because I have achieved this feat would be wrong. I don’t know myself whether I can repeat this performance next year or not.”

I can be No. 1
The 20-year-old believes more in herself than she does in others. “The No 3 ranking did not come easy to me. Along with my coach (Pullela Gopichand) I have worked really hard to reach here. And if I can be No. 3, then of course I have the ability to be No. 1 too. You see rankings come naturally if you keep performing well. If I do well, my rankings will improve. If I don’t, needless to say, the rankings will fall. But I am not going to let myself fall. Whenever I am on the verge of a fall, I tell myself ‘Saina, you can do it, don’t fall’. I just want to keep playing better and better and rise to new highs. I expect a lot from myself , so, there’s actually no room for outside pressures.”

-----------------------------------------
*Read completely through The Times of India.com -- http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life/people/I-am-not-perfect-Saina/articleshow/6119291.cms

[vpsingh]

Saina recently took time out from badminton to visit Hyderabad fashion week and even walk on the ramp.
She looks great in the traditional Hyderabadi Muslim Bride attire. :D:D
http://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/6123577.cms

(I don't think organisers will reveal how much she was paid :p)

[chris-ccc]

Saina recently took time out from badminton to visit Hyderabad fashion week and even walk on the ramp.
She looks great in the traditional Hyderabadi Muslim Bride attire. :D:D
http://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/6123577.cms

(I don't think organisers will reveal how much she was paid :p)
.
Thanks for the link to her photos, vpsingh.

Now our BCers can see Saina Nehwal with make-ups on. :D:D:D
.

[vpsingh]

(The Times of India 13 Jul 2010)

NEW DELHI: Star shuttler Saina Nehwal will lead India's challenge in the World Championship in Paris in August.
The nine-member squad includes Aditi Mutatkar, Jwala Gutta, Ashwini Ponnappa, Chetan Anand, Parupalli Kashyap, Sanave Thomas, V Diju and Rupesh Kumar.
Pullela Gopichand will be the chief coach.
Announcing the squad, Badminton Association of India president VK Verma hoped that Saina, the youngest Indian captain, will inspire the team to perform well.
Saina, who is World No. 3, said she will not be under pressure.
"Badminton is an individual game. Each one is responsible for himself. We have strong players. I have followed their performance in the Singapore Open. Everyone is on the same wavelength. I will focus on my game and ensure that I do well," Saina said.
"It is just the playing environment which will be different in the World Championships. I will have my team cheering for me and I, in turn, will be there for them," he said.
Saina, who last month won three titles in as many weeks, including two Super Series events, was felicitated by the Badminton Association of India (BAI) and national team sponsor Premier Brands for her achievement here Tuesday. She was presented 20 gold coins, synonymous with her age.
Premier Brands chairman Suresh Kumar said they will be presenting 101 gold coins to Saina if she performs well in the World Championships.
Saina lost in the quarterfinals of the World Championships at Hyderabad last year.

[chris-ccc]

(The Times of India 13 Jul 2010)

NEW DELHI: Star shuttler Saina Nehwal will lead India's challenge in the World Championship in Paris in August.
The nine-member squad includes Aditi Mutatkar, Jwala Gutta, Ashwini Ponnappa, Chetan Anand, Parupalli Kashyap, Sanave Thomas, V Diju and Rupesh Kumar.
Pullela Gopichand will be the chief coach.
Announcing the squad, Badminton Association of India president VK Verma hoped that Saina, the youngest Indian captain, will inspire the team to perform well.
Saina, who is World No. 3, said she will not be under pressure.
"Badminton is an individual game. Each one is responsible for himself. We have strong players. I have followed their performance in the Singapore Open. Everyone is on the same wavelength. I will focus on my game and ensure that I do well," Saina said.
"It is just the playing environment which will be different in the World Championships. I will have my team cheering for me and I, in turn, will be there for them," he said.
Saina, who last month won three titles in as many weeks, including two Super Series events, was felicitated by the Badminton Association of India (BAI) and national team sponsor Premier Brands for her achievement here Tuesday. She was presented 20 gold coins, synonymous with her age.
Premier Brands chairman Suresh Kumar said they will be presenting 101 gold coins to Saina if she performs well in the World Championships.
Saina lost in the quarterfinals of the World Championships at Hyderabad last year.
.
So unfortunate that Saina is not in Melbourne, Australia, for our 2010 Australian Open GP.

Would love to catch up with Saina again. :cool::cool::cool:
.

[johnjacob]

Oh, and by the way... Saina Nehwal is world number two now!

Linkety link (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Sports/More-Sports/Badminton/Saina-Nehwal-rises-to-world-No-2-in-rankings/articleshow/6171771.cms).


Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal is just a step away from realising her goal of becoming the world's numero uno player as she jumped one place to a career-best second in the latest international rankings.

[Thom_bad]

Yes, wining 3 titles in-a-row, she might be considered as one of the favourite for the WorldChamps

[SibugiChai]

the CHinese are always favourite when it comes to Women Singles

[Thom_bad]

For sure they are but some non chinese can challenge and upset them : Saina Nehwal, Tine Baun, Juliane Schenk, Pi Hongyan, Yippy, Zhou Mi, etc..
;)

[CLELY]

Oh, and by the way... Saina Nehwal is world number two now!

Linkety link (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Sports/More-Sports/Badminton/Saina-Nehwal-rises-to-world-No-2-in-rankings/articleshow/6171771.cms).

And she may get seeding #2 at upcoming WC;)


the CHinese are always favourite when it comes to Women Singles

Last year edition, China WS grabbed one set medal, only Wang Yihan failed to win any medal.
Will it repeat once again in Paris?

[chris-ccc]

Oh, and by the way... Saina Nehwal is world number two now!

Linkety link (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Sports/More-Sports/Badminton/Saina-Nehwal-rises-to-world-No-2-in-rankings/articleshow/6171771.cms).


And she may get seeding #2 at upcoming WC;)


.
Saina Nehwal is World No.2 !!! :):):)

Congratulations to Saina. I still remember my post in this thread, Post #6, that Saina will one day be a World Singles Champion.



I am very happy for Saina Nehwal. I watched her played well at the Commonwealth Games, Melbourne just weeks ago. I told Saina, herself, that she will one day be a World Singles Champion. But I didn't think she believed me. Saina is only 16.

[PoLLuX]

double post. sorry

[PoLLuX]

Raeding article at #377 and #399 post, makes me realize that Saina has great mental attitude. Hope she will perform great at WC.

[skchen]

the CHinese are always favourite when it comes to Women Singles

I am not so sure about the Chinese now.
Saina Nehwal will be in contention for the WC WS title in August 2010.
She won back to back to back (1 Grand Prix and 2 Super Series) titles this year and is strong mentally and with Pullela Gopichand the former AE MS champion as her coach, SN will hone her skills even more.
I just root for her to win.

:D:D:D:D:D:D

[majyun]

By Omer Farooq, Correspondent
Published: 00:02 July 18, 2010


Nehwal, who appears to be determined to become Queen of the badminton world by reaching the top rank soon, has started attracting the attention of corporations as a potential brand ambassador.

Hyderabad: She may not be able to scale the heights of Mahinder Singh Dhoni's Rs2.1 billion (Dh165 million) deal but India's badminton sensation and world No 2 badminton player Saina Nehwal is about to give other stars some tough competition in brand endorsements.

Nehwal, who appears to be determined to become Queen of the badminton world by reaching the top rank soon, has started attracting the attention of corporations as a potential brand ambassador.


Herbalife, the US company which direct-sells nutrition products and energy drinks signed up 20-year-old Nehwal for an undisclosed amount for one more year on Friday.


Full article at:
http://gulfnews.com/sport/other-sports/world-no-2-badminton-player-saina-nehwal-calls-for-endorsements-1.655569

************************************************** ****************
Note: Rs 4 million is about USD 85,000.
More of this in badminton please...Hopefully more Chinese companies can start sponsoring the sport.

[chris-ccc]

By Omer Farooq, Correspondent
Published: 00:02 July 18, 2010


Nehwal, who appears to be determined to become Queen of the badminton world by reaching the top rank soon, has started attracting the attention of corporations as a potential brand ambassador.

Hyderabad: She may not be able to scale the heights of Mahinder Singh Dhoni's Rs2.1 billion (Dh165 million) deal but India's badminton sensation and world No 2 badminton player Saina Nehwal is about to give other stars some tough competition in brand endorsements.

Nehwal, who appears to be determined to become Queen of the badminton world by reaching the top rank soon, has started attracting the attention of corporations as a potential brand ambassador.

Herbalife, the US company which direct-sells nutrition products and energy drinks signed up 20-year-old Nehwal for an undisclosed amount for one more year on Friday.

Full article at:
http://gulfnews.com/sport/other-sports/world-no-2-badminton-player-saina-nehwal-calls-for-endorsements-1.655569

************************************************** ****************
Note: Rs 4 million is about USD 85,000.
More of this in badminton please...Hopefully more Chinese companies can start sponsoring the sport.
.
Well said by Saina Nehwal;

Though the worth of the deal between Nehwal and Herbalife was kept under wraps, sources said that it could be between Rs3 million to Rs5 million.

Nehwal's endorsement value had zoomed up following her recent victories and her rise to the world's number two in World Badminton Federation rankings, sources said.

"It will go up to Rs10 million per endorsement if she succeeds in becoming world number one," a market expert said.

But Nehwal said the game of badminton would remain her first love.
.

[lcleing]

India's Saina Nehwal, the world No 2, has been awarded India's highest sporting honour.


By Rod Gilmour
Published: 4:29PM BST 30 Jul 2010

76892
Joy: Saina Nehwal displays her medals to the crowd on her arrival at the airport in Hyderabad, India in July Photo: AP

India in July Photo: AP Nehwal was named the recipient of the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award after a string of impressive performances that saw her become the first Indian to win a Super Series title when she triumphed at the 2009 Indonesia Badminton (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/badminton/) Open.



"I am really happy. It's unbelievable, a dream come true for me," she said. "I have done well in the last two years and the three titles that I won recently have really boosted my confidence.



"I am now preparing for the World Championship and hope to win the title," she said.
Nehwal, this year's All England Championships semi-finalist, is now a serious threat for next month's World Championships in Paris.



************************************************** **************
Full article: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/badminton/7919193/Badminton-No-1-Saina-Nehwal-awarded-Indias-highest-sporting-honour.html
************************************************** **************
Congratulation, Saina! Keep up the good work!

[lcleing]

Pradeep Vijaykar (http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Sportvicarious), 30 July 2010, 06:36 PM IST

Saina Nehwal being picked for India's highest sporting distinction, the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award, puts her in the league of another young achiever, cue legend Pankaj Advani, who got it when just 20, a year younger than Saina.It will no doubt provoke comparsions with tennis queen Sania Mirza. I won't fall into this trap. I would rather try and put Saina in perspective vis-a-vis other baddy players.

Saina, the BPCL player, is No 2 in the world.

Saina is the first Indian woman to reach the singles quarterfinals at the Olympics. She went on o win the World Junior Badminton Championships and capped a fine run with a hat-trick of wins clinching the Indonesian Open in 2009, the Singapore Open title in June, 2010, and the Indonesian Open a week later. These wins make here arguably our best baddy player, man and woman going solely by international performances.

Winning two Super Series events is like winning two All England Championships. Our men legends, Prakash Padukone and Gopichand one one each while Prakash also won one World Open. To use the words of Pradeep Gandhe, former Asian Games doubles bronze winner and vice-president of the Badminton Federation of India, a volcano has erupted. Gandhe pays tribute to the focus of Saina after the setback of not going beyond the first round for a full year in 8-10 events after reaching the last eight of the Beijing Olympics.She was working onher fitness and it all erupted in the season 2009-10. Any other player would have been disheartened.

In years past there were fine women players like Mumtaz Lotwala, Shashi Bhatt, Prem Parasher, Sushila Kapadia, Manda Kelkar, Meena Shah, Sudesh Minocha, Razia Latif, Vasanti Yederi, Tehmi Shroff, Siloo Vakil, Damayanti Subedar,Nirupama Pradhan, Sharayu Phalnikar, Shobha Moorthy and Uma Murthy. Lotwala was a great striker and agile. Parashar was a returning machine. Kapadia had great attacking shots. Kelkar, who died young, had steadiness and great footwork. Shashi and Minocha were good partners to our great Nandu Natekar in the mixed doubles.Uma was the partner of Prakash.


************************************************** *******************************
Full article: http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Sportvicarious/entry/saina-has-put-icing-on
************************************************** *******************************

[chris-ccc]

India's Saina Nehwal, the world No 2, has been awarded India's highest sporting honour.

"I am really happy. It's unbelievable, a dream come true for me," she said. "I have done well in the last two years and the three titles that I won recently have really boosted my confidence.

"I am now preparing for the World Championships and hope to win the title," she said. Nehwal, this year's All England Championships semi-finalist, is now a serious threat for next month's World Championships in Paris.

.
Yes, Congratulations to Saina Nehwal.

And keep up with the good work.
.

[Loh]

While it is good that Saina has almost single-handedly aroused great interest in India on the badminton game and side-lined cricket for a while, I hope she is not too much side-tracked into the endorsement and popularity fervour that she lost sight of her WC ambition and had less time to train and focus.

Have we not noticed that the Chinese kept very much in the background with their shocked Uber Cup loss to Korea? Their silence is deafening and worrying, I would say! Do you think they would do nothing to recapture their glory days? And having a great abundance of talent even "Queen" Zhu Lin has to be "deported" as she is of not much use to them. China only sent token representation in recent SS and GP tournaments while I suppose their solid senior players remained at home to prepare for the WC summit!

So watch out Saina!

[skchen]

India's Saina Nehwal, the world No 2, has been awarded India's highest sporting honour.


By Rod Gilmour
Published: 4:29PM BST 30 Jul 2010

76892
Joy: Saina Nehwal displays her medals to the crowd on her arrival at the airport in Hyderabad, India in July Photo: AP

India in July Photo: AP Nehwal was named the recipient of the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award after a string of impressive performances that saw her become the first Indian to win a Super Series title when she triumphed at the 2009 Indonesia Badminton (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/badminton/) Open.



"I am really happy. It's unbelievable, a dream come true for me," she said. "I have done well in the last two years and the three titles that I won recently have really boosted my confidence.



"I am now preparing for the World Championship and hope to win the title," she said.
Nehwal, this year's All England Championships semi-finalist, is now a serious threat for next month's World Championships in Paris.



************************************************** **************
Full article: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/badminton/7919193/Badminton-No-1-Saina-Nehwal-awarded-Indias-highest-sporting-honour.html
************************************************** **************
Congratulation, Saina! Keep up the good work!

SN deserves the honour.
It is hoped she wins the WS title in this year's WC in August in Paris and with that the World no. 1 player ranking and lots of endorsements. :):):)

[undeadshot]

Yup, hopefully she at least takes over from WS no. 1 Wang Yihan, who seems to be faring like KKK/TBH this year.

[george@chongwei]

this is specially for chris:D..


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWW-fXaScWE

[chris-ccc]

this is specially for chris:D..


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWW-fXaScWE
.
Thanks george. :):):)

Now, let's look at Saina Nehwal's training and diet schedule.

5:00 am - Day begins with some meditation.

7:30 -11:30 am - A light breakfast of bread, eggs and milk, followed by morning training. This includes playing at the courts with coach Pullela Gopichand, and running (sprints, cross-training and long runs). Saina also does interval training that includes 30 seconds of sprint followed by another 30 seconds of jogging. She does drills that improve reflexes, footwork, accuracy and agility.

1:30 pm - Lunch usually consists of chicken, daal, chapatis and lots of veggies. After lunch, a little rest.

3:30 pm - 7:30 pm - Time to hit the gym for weight training and agility training to aid quicker movement.

8:00 pm - Dinner is quite similar to lunch. And then, early to bed.

Source: http://www.hindustantimes.com/Ready-set-gold/Article1-601401.aspx
.

[chris-ccc]

.
Congratulations to Saina Nehwal for winning the GOLD medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games Womens Singles Individual Badminton event. :):):)
.

[vpsingh]

Breaking the traditions of keeping quite over social issues, Saina took the bull by its horns. She has spoken against the skewed *** ratio in her home state and the discrimination a girl/woman has to face even in modern Indian society.

Report from Times of India -

NEW DELHI: She is one of the most sought after female sporting stars in India but when Saina Nehwal was born in patriarchal Haryana, her own grandmother refused to look at her because of the inherent discrimination against the girl child in the state.
"I was really surprised when I was told that my grandmother did not come to see me till a month after my birth. I was born seven years after my only sister Chandranshu and my birth was a big disappointment for her," the ace shuttler, fresh from a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games, wrote in a column.
"But in it there is a message that I understand very well now about the discrimination against the girl child," she said.
Saina still counts her blessings for having parents who were liberal enough to allow her pursue sports.
"My mother Usha Rani had represented Haryana in badminton and she was consistent in her encouragement. That helped me build my career successfully and at just 14, I had a sponsor in Bharat Petroleum and Deccan Chronicle now. We live in an apartment bought with my prize money and my parents have taken care that it is in my name," she revealed.
"Many Haryanvi sportspersons, particularly women, are not half as lucky. They do not have generous sponsors even after doing exceedingly well," she rued.
But she lauded the Haryana government's efforts to recognise international performers.
"The Haryana Government has in the last two years offered several incentives - the highest prize money for medal winners at the Commonwealth Games and a car too. No state has matched this so far. This is a welcome sign for sportswomen as it gives them new recognition," she said.
Haryana, which has a skewed *** ratio of 847 women to every 1000 men, is notorious for female infanticide and honour killings.
Saina said given the scenario, it was incredible to have Haryana women doing well in the sporting arena.
"Men are domineering in rural Haryana and that shows in sport too. That Haryanvi women are in the spotlight for their excellent performance and have brought many medals to the state should make a difference," she said.
The 20-year-old revealed that her ties with her relatives have strained on the issue of how the women in the family should be treated.
"My uncles and other relatives are against encouraging girls in every aspect and that includes sports. I hardly interact with them. My parents are more open. They back me all the way," she said.

Read more: My grandmother wanted a boy: Saina Nehwal - The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/off-the-field/My-grandmother-wanted-a-boy-Saina-Nehwal/articleshow/6787260.cms#ixzz135NRe000

[extremenanopowe]

Discrimination sucks. Good one for Saina. ;)

[cobalt]

This feature in 2 parts covers the journey to Gold by some of the women athletes from India in the recently concluded Commonwealth Games. It is worth watching and hearing, and an eye-opener to what a human being can achieve in the face of incredible odds.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56xhE-nO-Uc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56xhE-nO-Uc


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hr3TDvTrdTs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hr3TDvTrdTs

[vpsingh]

This feature in 2 parts covers the journey to Gold by some of the women athletes from India in the recently concluded Commonwealth Games. It is worth watching and hearing, and an eye-opener to what a human being can achieve in the face of incredible odds.


Thanks cobalt for this. This was shown in all major TV channels in India and to be honest a great viewing. Must encourage any athlete to do well....

[vpsingh]

Report by The Times Of India (28-Oct-2010)

HYDERABAD: On October 15, reporting Saina Nehwal's thrilling victory in the Commonwealth Games women's singles final, TOI said she was now probably India's best loved sportsperson after Sachin Tendulkar. Corporate India seems to agree. India's badminton sensation, riding high after three consecutive tournanment wins, apart from the CWG triumph, is now being signed up by major brands for an annual fee which is touching the Rs 1 crore mark:eek:.
To put that in perspective, Saina now commands a fee that was earlier the preserve of only cricket superstars like Virender Sehwag. Only MS Dhoni and Tendulkar get significantly more than her. Dhoni, apparently, is now offering advertisers the option of paying him by the day, rather than charging an annual fee.
Interestingly, Sania Mirza, who was once eagerly sought after by advertisers, is now said to get a fee of around Rs 25 lakh. Industry sources say her brand value has been hit by her indifferent form as well as her marriage to Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik.
Barely a couple of years ago, Saina's brand equity was valued at a mere 10-15 lakh per endorsement and she didn't have any top brands in her kitty.
From being a brand ambassador of Cancer Society of India and a herbal product, Saina has come a long way to now have on her list companies such as Airtel, Adani Wilmar, Yonex, Jaypee Cements and Star Plus. And the word is that the queue is getting longer by the day, at the head of which is a famous noodle company.
According to sources close to the shuttler, Saina inked two deals - Adani Wilmar and Airtel - in July, each worth Rs 1 crore. She had earlier signed similar deals with Yonex and a City-based daily. Incidentally, a change in her fortunes came about after she switched from Globosport Management Group to Deccan Chargers Sporting Ventures last year.
Sources close to the shuttler told TOI on Wednesday that the deal with Jaypee Cements is in the closing stages and that her management firm is in talks with Star Television Group, apparently for a foreword to 20-25 episodes of a serial titled 'Kali Ek Agnipariksha' which is all about a woman shuttler's travails. Saina is likely to be paid Rs 5 lakh per episode.
Apart from these major signings this year, Saina has received 20 gold coins weighing 10g each from Premium Brands, the official sponsor of Indian badminton team. At the bottom end of her endosements, however, is Aspire which fetches her Rs 2 lakh a year, a deal that runs through 2012.
Besides, Deccan Chargers Sporting Ventures - who give her a guarantee fee of Rs 1 crore per year and do not take any percentage from the deals they get for her - are likely to hike her guarantee fee
Read more: Soaring Brand Saina gets Rs 1cr per ad deal - The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/Soaring-Brand-Saina-gets-Rs-1cr-per-ad-deal/articleshow/6824811.cms#ixzz13dj5jf7A

For your reference -
1 crore = 10 million
1 lakh = 100 thousands
1 US$ = 45 Indian Rupees (approx)

[SibugiChai]

Ready to serve



http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/saina-nehwal-1.619615%21image/2273101853.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_475/2273101853.jpg

Saina Nehwal
Image Credit: Xpress /Abdel-Krim Kallouche


As one drives into the city of Hyderabad in south India from the airport, you will be greeted with hoardings almost at regular intervals featuring a familiar face: Saina Nehwal. Head tilted up, shuttle in the air, the women's world No 3 badminton player is getting ready to serve.
It's an advertising campaign for one of that city's biggest media houses — who have chosen Saina as their brand ambassador over any illustrious member of their IPL franchise Deccan Chargers.
To earn one's place as the most saleable sporting icon in a city which boasts of the likes of a V.V.S. Laxman or Sania Mirza is no mean task — and it gives one a pointer to the growing stature of this 20-year-old in the Indian sporting horizon.
Little wonder then that there would be others trying to cash in on the ‘Brand Saina.'
The hottest piece of news in the country's sports endorsement sector over the past week had been her touching the Rs10 million mark for a sponsorship deal when telecom giants Airtel signed her up for that amount. And guess who all she joins in the marquee line-up of Airtel brand ambassadors — Shah Rukh Khan and Sachin Tendulkar.
The girl next door
However, broach the subject with Saina and one realises that despite the world changing around her over the last two years rapidly, she remains very much the girl next door.
"I want to thank Airtel for recognising a badminton player and I am happy to accept the offer. However, it's nothing compared to the cricketers as that is a more popular game in our country," she told Gulf News from Hyderabad.
It's been more than two years now since she became the first Indian to make the quarterfinals of the Olympics in Beijing — and how life has changed around her. For the average Indian sports fan fed on an overdose of cricket and its overpaid, nose-in-the-air stars, Saina is like a breath of fresh air.
Her recent exploits on court has everyone — from the Bollywood biggies to the man on the street — wishing her luck whenever she embarks on a new tournament in recent times.
There's of course a small price to pay for all this — apart from getting mobbed at public places, there is this frighteningly high level of expectations from a country of a billion people whenever she steps on to the court now.
"Yes, it is wonderful to have achieved so many things in the last two years. People now recognise me at all places and show a lot of love and affection. However, I have little time to go for outings," she confides.
Saina is, of course, well aware of the fact that her Commonwealth Games gold — coming under an intense pressure situation — is only going to fuel the expectations of an encore at the Asian Games.
Tougher battle
As the number two seed, the battle will be much tougher for her this time with the Chinese girls coming back and the event taking place at their backyard in Guang Zhou.
"I have gone back to my daily schedule under Gopi [Pulella Gopichand] sir: daily six to seven hours in two sessions. Yes, I know the Chinese will be tough at home but I have a good record against them in recent times and will do my best for a podium finish," she said.
The current year had been like a dream for her so far. Not only has it seen her perched permanently among the top three in the world rankings, official recognition have come in thick and fast with the Rajiv Khel Ratna and the NDTV Sportsperson for the Year while the on-court form had been tremendous. The only place where she hadn't been able to give of her best was the World Championships, and Saina wants to set the record straight there at the next opportunity.
"This year had been good to me for I had been getting the results for all the hard work I had put in. There is still a lot more to do," comes the matter-of-fact observation.
As you wish to sign off with best wishes for ‘Mission Guang Zhou,' Saina had a message for the Indian expat population in the Middle East.
"Please convey my Diwali greetings to all the Indians living in that part of the world."


Date of birth: March 17, 1990 Place of birth: Hisar, Haryana
Height: 1.65m (5 ft 5 in) Weight: 60kg (130 lb)
Country: India Handedness: Right
Coach: Pullela Gopichand
Women's singles
Current Ranking 3 (October 14, 2010)

Walking the ramp

The fans of Saina Nehwal were in for a pleasant surprise recently when she walked the ramp recently during one of the high profile fashion weeks in India, looking quite resplendent in pink bridal wear. Asked if she would do it again, the badminton ace quickly put her priorities in place.
"That was just for fun. I am not a regular visitor to the ramp. My aim, for now, is to do well on the badminton court only," she quipped.

Do you think a rise in sponsorship earnings will make her lose focus? Can she repeat her Commonwealth Games performance in the Asian Galmes?

[skchen]

Ready to serve



http://gulfnews.com/polopoly_fs/saina-nehwal-1.619615%21image/2273101853.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_475/2273101853.jpg

Saina Nehwal
Image Credit: Xpress /Abdel-Krim Kallouche


As one drives into the city of Hyderabad in south India from the airport, you will be greeted with hoardings almost at regular intervals featuring a familiar face: Saina Nehwal. Head tilted up, shuttle in the air, the women's world No 3 badminton player is getting ready to serve.
It's an advertising campaign for one of that city's biggest media houses — who have chosen Saina as their brand ambassador over any illustrious member of their IPL franchise Deccan Chargers.
To earn one's place as the most saleable sporting icon in a city which boasts of the likes of a V.V.S. Laxman or Sania Mirza is no mean task — and it gives one a pointer to the growing stature of this 20-year-old in the Indian sporting horizon.
Little wonder then that there would be others trying to cash in on the ‘Brand Saina.'
The hottest piece of news in the country's sports endorsement sector over the past week had been her touching the Rs10 million mark for a sponsorship deal when telecom giants Airtel signed her up for that amount. And guess who all she joins in the marquee line-up of Airtel brand ambassadors — Shah Rukh Khan and Sachin Tendulkar.
The girl next door
However, broach the subject with Saina and one realises that despite the world changing around her over the last two years rapidly, she remains very much the girl next door.
"I want to thank Airtel for recognising a badminton player and I am happy to accept the offer. However, it's nothing compared to the cricketers as that is a more popular game in our country," she told Gulf News from Hyderabad.
It's been more than two years now since she became the first Indian to make the quarterfinals of the Olympics in Beijing — and how life has changed around her. For the average Indian sports fan fed on an overdose of cricket and its overpaid, nose-in-the-air stars, Saina is like a breath of fresh air.
Her recent exploits on court has everyone — from the Bollywood biggies to the man on the street — wishing her luck whenever she embarks on a new tournament in recent times.
There's of course a small price to pay for all this — apart from getting mobbed at public places, there is this frighteningly high level of expectations from a country of a billion people whenever she steps on to the court now.
"Yes, it is wonderful to have achieved so many things in the last two years. People now recognise me at all places and show a lot of love and affection. However, I have little time to go for outings," she confides.
Saina is, of course, well aware of the fact that her Commonwealth Games gold — coming under an intense pressure situation — is only going to fuel the expectations of an encore at the Asian Games.
Tougher battle
As the number two seed, the battle will be much tougher for her this time with the Chinese girls coming back and the event taking place at their backyard in Guang Zhou.
"I have gone back to my daily schedule under Gopi [Pulella Gopichand] sir: daily six to seven hours in two sessions. Yes, I know the Chinese will be tough at home but I have a good record against them in recent times and will do my best for a podium finish," she said.
The current year had been like a dream for her so far. Not only has it seen her perched permanently among the top three in the world rankings, official recognition have come in thick and fast with the Rajiv Khel Ratna and the NDTV Sportsperson for the Year while the on-court form had been tremendous. The only place where she hadn't been able to give of her best was the World Championships, and Saina wants to set the record straight there at the next opportunity.
"This year had been good to me for I had been getting the results for all the hard work I had put in. There is still a lot more to do," comes the matter-of-fact observation.
As you wish to sign off with best wishes for ‘Mission Guang Zhou,' Saina had a message for the Indian expat population in the Middle East.
"Please convey my Diwali greetings to all the Indians living in that part of the world."


Date of birth: March 17, 1990 Place of birth: Hisar, Haryana
Height: 1.65m (5 ft 5 in) Weight: 60kg (130 lb)
Country: India Handedness: Right
Coach: Pullela Gopichand
Women's singles
Current Ranking 3 (October 14, 2010)

Walking the ramp

The fans of Saina Nehwal were in for a pleasant surprise recently when she walked the ramp recently during one of the high profile fashion weeks in India, looking quite resplendent in pink bridal wear. Asked if she would do it again, the badminton ace quickly put her priorities in place.
"That was just for fun. I am not a regular visitor to the ramp. My aim, for now, is to do well on the badminton court only," she quipped.

Do you think a rise in sponsorship earnings will make her lose focus? Can she repeat her Commonwealth Games performance in the Asian Galmes?

It is not easy to carry the expectations of your country on such young shoulders.
With regards to the 2010 AG, Saina should take each match as it comes and not pressurize herself with the seedings as she did at the recent XIX CWG where she was almost upset by WMC of Malaysia.
She deserves all the accolades and sponsorships and she is indeed a breath of fresh air for India.
:D:D:D:D:D

[chris-ccc]

Thanks cobalt for this. This was shown in all major TV channels in India and to be honest a great viewing. Must encourage any athlete to do well....
.
IMHO, for us Badminton enthusiasts, what Saina Nehwal has achieved for India is great.

Saina Nehwal has woken up India; that India too can perform well in Badminton.

Like many other Asian countries, Badminton has been promoted as one of their most suitable and favourite sports for their population.
.

[cobalt]

.
IMHO, for us Badminton enthusiasts, what Saina Nehwal has achieved for India is great.

Saina Nehwal has woken up India; that India too can perform well in Badminton.

Like many other Asian countries, Badminton has been promoted as one of their most suitable and favourite sports for their population.
.

More importantly, she has demonstrated the correct work ethic that will bring success.

Too often, the Indian sportspersons are content with No. 1 status within the country, and lack that really sharp competitive edge that can define success on the international stage. Although many will argue that Saina lacks certain skills that are more to be fond in other women players, she more than makes up with her raw courage, stamina, and iron will; in short, the never-say-die competitive spirit.

That is what really sets her apart from most of her Indian badminton-playing peers. Most of the Indian men's team could take a lesson from her in this respect.

The other great achievement is the triumph of her gender in a country where gender equality is still not "there."

[jazzroll]

saina nehwal.....still yoyo performance..

[chris-ccc]

saina nehwal.....still yoyo performance..
.
How can we say that (still yoyo performance); when Saina Nehwal has remained (and still is) in the top 5 spots for quite a long time now? :confused::confused::confused:
.

[skchen]

Playing and losing in China is not a true measure of a player's ranking, seeding and capability where line calls may be 'dubious' even where you have neutral umpires who cannot over-rule calls which they cannot see clearly.
The other thing about playing in China is that the Chinese players tend to take a long time to 'settle' in between points and often indicate they are not ready even when a serve has been made and the opponent has to re-serve.
The true measure would be for competition to take place in a neutral country, say, Japan, where Saina Nehwal plays, say, WYH or WSX.
So, please don't rush to judgment by saying that SN is yoyo.

:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

[cobalt]

Saina has IMO a few handicaps to begin with.

1. Her height. At only 165 cm, her reach is significantly less than most of the top 25 players on the circuit. Which means she needs to run harder, stretch more, dive more, and as if that were not enough, recover quickly enough to be ready for the next shot.

2. Limited skill set. No offense meant here. But she has time and again displayed a limited skill set on court. Her net play especially, is a very weak area of her game IMO.

3. Probable diet issues. The typical Indian diet can be quite taxing on the system, and encourages a certain heaviness and bulkiness. Not the best thing for a game like badminton, where agility is very important. There is also a good case to be made for more high-altitude training.

But she balances this with her attitude (never-say-die,) and truly incredible stamina. She is focussed, intelligent, and has a very wise and mature head on her young shoulders. And she hates losing! :D

If she really wants to get to the podium at the prestigious events, I think she and the BAI need to consider a change of coach, support team, and rotation of practise venues, with the objective of taking her "to the next level." The reason she has done so well in South-East Asia is that the climatic and other conditions are similar to Hyderabad, her base, in many ways. But take her out of that "comfort zone" and into colder arenas (AE, WC2010 etc) and she has come up short...

No she is no yo-yo. But the BAI need to step back and re-assess the way they have handled her so far, and where they want to go from here. Otherwise, I suspect they will be doing her, and India a disservice. The problem is, it's very easy for them to get carried away with the (limited) successes they have had in the past 2 years or so with her. I would say, to a lesser extent she has got to where she is not because of, but in spite of, BAI.

My 2 cents.

[chris-ccc]

Saina has IMO a few handicaps to begin with.

1. Her height. At only 165 cm, her reach is significantly less than most of the top 25 players on the circuit. Which means she needs to run harder, stretch more, dive more, and as if that were not enough, recover quickly enough to be ready for the next shot.

2. Limited skill set. No offense meant here. But she has time and again displayed a limited skill set on court. Her net play especially, is a very weak area of her game IMO.

3. Probable diet issues. The typical Indian diet can be quite taxing on the system, and encourages a certain heaviness and bulkiness. Not the best thing for a game like badminton, where agility is very important. There is also a good case to be made for more high-altitude training.

But she balances this with her attitude (never-say-die,) and truly incredible stamina. She is focussed, intelligent, and has a very wise and mature head on her young shoulders. And she hates losing! :D

If she really wants to get to the podium at the prestigious events, I think she and the BAI need to consider a change of coach, support team, and rotation of practise venues, with the objective of taking her "to the next level." The reason she has done so well in South-East Asia is that the climatic and other conditions are similar to Hyderabad, her base, in many ways. But take her out of that "comfort zone" and into colder arenas (AE, WC2010 etc) and she has come up short...

No she is no yo-yo. But the BAI need to step back and re-assess the way they have handled her so far, and where they want to go from here. Otherwise, I suspect they will be doing her, and India a disservice. The problem is, it's very easy for them to get carried away with the (limited) successes they have had in the past 2 years or so with her. I would say, to a lesser extent she has got to where she is not because of, but in spite of, BAI.

My 2 cents.
.
I am sure Saina and her father will read and think over your comment. I know they read our BadmintonCentral forums :):):)
.

[cobalt]

.
I am sure Saina and her father will read and think over your comment. I know they read our BadmintonCentral forums :):):)
.

Well, it would be very interesting to find out if Atik Jauhari as extended his contract with BAI.

[undeadshot]

Saina is definitely not a yoyo. But perhaps shown lack of skills... and big match mentality. WS is harder than MS, don't think she can even end up with an AE. Her big match mentality is like LCW, can lose to other players whom he/she would have always beaten, but so far LCW outclasses her in skills. But of course I cannot compare WS and MS.

[chris-ccc]

Saina is definitely not a yoyo. But perhaps shown lack of skills... and big match mentality. WS is harder than MS, don't think she can even end up with an AE. Her big match mentality is like LCW, can lose to other players whom he/she would have always beaten, but so far LCW outclasses her in skills. But of course I cannot compare WS and MS.
.
Believe it or not... Saina Nehwal has returned as WS World No.2 again, based on this week's world rankings.

Saina is behind China's Xin Wang with 63211.26 points. Xin has 66152.40 points.

The rise was courtesy of Wang Yihan's fall. Wang, who held onto the number two spot for eight weeks, slipped to the third spot with 62488.91 points.

Tine Baun of Denmark is placed fourth and Chinese Shixian Wang fifth.

Source: http://sify.com/news/saina-climbs-to-second-spot-in-world-rankings-news-national-kl1su7digdh.html
.

[chris-ccc]

Believe it or not... Saina Nehwal has returned as WS World No.2 again, based on this week's world rankings.

Saina is behind China's Xin Wang with 63211.26 points. Xin has 66152.40 points.

The rise was courtesy of Wang Yihan's fall. Wang, who held onto the number two spot for eight weeks, slipped to the third spot with 62488.91 points.

Tine Baun of Denmark is placed fourth and Chinese Shixian Wang fifth.

Source: http://sify.com/news/saina-climbs-to-second-spot-in-world-rankings-news-national-kl1su7digdh.html
.
Processed on 02-Dec-2010, Saina Nehwal remains as WS World No.2. Tine Baun of Denmark is now placed as World No.1.

http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/ranking/category.aspx?id=1806&category=473
.

[limsy]

congrats for saina
winning in the final after beaten wang shi xian
she should improve her backhand push.

[jasonmarc]

CWG Women Single Champion has beaten Asian Games Women Champion.............well done, Saina Nehwal.

[undeadshot]

Congratulations, Saina Nehwal! I hope she can take this kind of positive gameplay into big tournaments like the AE, WC and Asian Games... otherwise she'll be hard-pressed to ever win a major... see the difference between the WC and this one?

[Zabee]

Congratulations to Saina for winning the HKO women singles ^^

[extremenanopowe]

She is the only chinese slayer left. ;)

[Zabee]

yea ... but future looks good for RI as well ~~

[thereal]

Didnt she just win the Singapore open 2010??

[chris-ccc]

.
Congratulations to Saina Nehwal for winning the 2010 Hong Kong Open SS Womens Singles title.
:):):)
.

[lcleing]

.
Congratulations to Saina Nehwal for winning the 2010 Hong Kong Open SS Womens Singles title.
:):):)
.

Good response. She will be much more famous that her counterpart in tennis(Sania) if SN keeps playing like this.

Edit: Actually she is already making more $$$ from ads compared to Sania Mirza. Hope she can eleveated badminton in India to a new level.

[Qidong]

Great job by beating the hottest or arguably the best woman player right now to win the HK Open. Even though I like WSX, but I also like to see a non-Chinese player able to challenge the Chinese WS players to make it more fun to watch.

[ctjcad]

Didnt she just win the Singapore open 2010??
..if referring to Saina, then yes; in fact, she won 3 consecutive tourneys during that span (the India Open and the INA Open SS were the others, with S'pore Open SS sandwiched in between)..

[madbad]

Good response. She will be much more famous that her counterpart in tennis(Sania) if SN keeps playing like this.

Edit: Actually she is already making more $$$ from ads compared to Sania Mirza. Hope she can eleveated badminton in India to a new level.

I mentioned in the HKSS Finals thread that Gillian Clark said Saina is the 6th highest earning sportsperson, only behind them superstar cricketers.

Now, that's amazing considering how much money is poured into cricket.

[vpsingh]

I mentioned in the HKSS Finals thread that Gillian Clark said Saina is the 6th highest earning sportsperson, only behind them superstar cricketers.

Now, that's amazing considering how much money is poured into cricket.
I don't find Gillian's comment easy to digest. Yes, cricketers are making lot of money, but Saina right after them! I don't think so.
There are few tennis players (Leander Paes/Mahesh Bhupathi) and chess player (Vishwanathan Anand) who definitely earn more money. Perhaps she was talking of year 2010. Badminton is still some way to go in India.

[chris-ccc]

I don't find Gillian's comment easy to digest. Yes, cricketers are making lot of money, but Saina right after them! I don't think so.
There are few tennis players (Leander Paes/Mahesh Bhupathi) and chess player (Vishwanathan Anand) who definitely earn more money. Perhaps she was talking of year 2010. Badminton is still some way to go in India.
.
Yes, Gillian was only talking about this year, the year of 2010.
.

[madbad]

I don't find Gillian's comment easy to digest. Yes, cricketers are making lot of money, but Saina right after them! I don't think so.
There are few tennis players (Leander Paes/Mahesh Bhupathi) and chess player (Vishwanathan Anand) who definitely earn more money. Perhaps she was talking of year 2010. Badminton is still some way to go in India.


.

Yes, Gillian was only talking about this year, the year of 2010.
.

We should ask her what exactly she means. I'm sure there must be many more than 6 cricket players making than Saina

[abedeng]

Whatever she earned, Saina has progressed far this year compared to just about a year ago during the Super Series Finals 2009. All she needs now is a bit more on the soft touch deception to be complete. It always seemed that Saina worked the points too hard by applying power and speed all the time, and while it worked in HK, it could also backfire like in Guangzhou and almost did in CWG.

[chris-ccc]

We should ask her what exactly she means. I'm sure there must be many more than 6 cricket players making than Saina
.
No, SN is getting many sponsors this year, 2010. Only a few cricketers managed to get more than her. I have read articles from India about this. I haven't saved any of those articles, otherwise I would have given you all the links.

I am sure SN will get the World No. 1 ranking one day; Then perhaps she can outdo Indian cricketers. :):):)
.

[thereal]

.
No, SN is getting many sponsors this year, 2010. Only a few cricketers managed to get more than her. I have read articles from India about this. I haven't saved any of those articles, otherwise I would have given you all the links.

I am sure SN will get the World No. 1 ranking one day; Then perhaps she can outdo Indian cricketers. :):):)
.

Yes, fingers crossed, India's no. 1 seat is ranked no 26 [Chetan Anand] so our only hope for now, to achieve the no.1 seat would be SN...

Any idea which tournament is the most prestigious in badminton? I think it is the Yonex All England held every year.

[extremenanopowe]

Sad that some indian news not covering her wins. ;)

[cobalt]

New Delhi, Dec 13 (IANS) Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president Suresh Kalmadi Monday congratulated shuttler Saina Nehwal for her sensational win in the Hong Kong Super Series calling her an 'inspiration' for young sportspersons across the country.
The 20-year-old Indian, who won three back-to-back tournaments in Indian Open and the Indonesian and Singapore Super Series in June besides bagging a gold at the Commonwealth Games in October, capped a successful year with the title win in Hong Kong Sunday for her career's fourth Super Series title.

'I would like to congratulate Saina Nehwal for raising the bar yet again. She has kept the Indian flag fluttering on the badminton circuit. In fact, she is an ambassador not only for badminton but also for Olympic sport,' Kalmadi said.

'She has been among the most consistent performers in Indian sport this year, winning the Indian Open Grand Prix and the gold medal at the Commonwealth Games.

'Saina has emerged as an inspiration to young sportspersons across the country and I am sure that, given her determination, dedication and discipline, she will continue to not only do well for herself and for India but also motivate thousands of young Indians to emulate her drive to conquer new frontiers.'

http://sify.com/news/ioa-chief-kalmadi-congratulates-saina-news-national-kmntEschdje.html

[cobalt]

"When I saw the trophy, I liked its colour. I really wanted to win it."

India’s Golden Girl Saina Nehwal has done it one more time for India by beating Shixian Wang of China in the Hong Kong Open Series. Although she suffered a setback in the beginning, by losing 15-21, she came back majestically to beat the Chinese 21-16, 21-17 in 71 minutes.

The world no 4 Saina though with the win proved to be one of the best badminton players ,might have to settle with no 3 spot . This is due to the fact that Saina did not take part in five enthralling Super Series tournaments; mainly in France, Denmark, Japan and 2 in China. She was playing the Commonwealth and Asian Games at that time.

Saina says, “It means a lot to beat the Chinese in the final as I had lost to her in the World Championship. I was disappointed after losing in the quarter-finals of the Asian Games that I could beat those two players in one tournament means a lot to me.” Even though she can’t be the at the top of the table, she says, “I won three Super Series titles, one Grand Prix and the Commonwealth Games gold. It has been a big year. I’m happy with my performances.”


By winning this Series, she has shut the mouth of her critics. Even after the Chinese winning the first game, Saina never lost her grip over this match. She came back by winning this famous Open. She says, “It was a tough game. Shixian was in good form. I was nervous at the start. I had to play with the wind. But after the first game loss, I found my rhythm as I controlled the shuttle. the game changed a lot after I took a 11-5 lead in the second.” Saina further says, “I want to be the champion always. I love winning. When I saw the trophy, I liked its colour. I really wanted to win it.”


Hyderabadi Pullela Gopi Chand is her coach and says, ““She played some very good shots at crucial times of the game and kept her nerve. That was important. It was a wonderful final.”

http://www.india-server.com/news/saina-nehwal-wins-hong-kong-open-says-36482.html

[cobalt]

Proof that SN is definitely among the top sportsperson earners in India. INR 1 Crore = USD $224,000 approximately, by today's conversion rates.

========== ============ ==============

Last Updated: 2010-10-28T10:09:55+05:30

Gold medal winner Saina Nehwal is in real demand as she has become the top choice of big brands. It is believed that ace shuttler’s endorsement value has reached almost Rs. 1 crore per deal.

In addition to it, Saina Nehwal lately has agreed to be the brand ambassador of telecom giant Airtel.

"She is really in demand. A lot of companies want to associate with her. She has already signed up with Airtel and at least four firms operating in areas such as food and infrastructure will come on board very soon," H Manjula, Deccan Chargers Sporting Ventures Media Coordinator said.

Deccan Chargers Sporting Ventures take care of Saina's account. Saina is not new to the endorsement market as she is already the face of Deccan Chronicle newspaper, Adani Wilmar's Fortune edible oil and Herbal life's nutritional product line.

"Corporates are willing to pay that kind of money," Manjula added.

Meanwhile, Saina also agrees that her latest achievements have increased her popularity.

“Yes, after winning the titles, my fee has gone up and I am getting a lot of endorsements now. I am happy that there is demand being created for sports persons other than cricketers," Saina said.

http://www.india-server.com/news/saina-nehwal-is-the-new-face-of-airtel-34912.html

[skchen]

Proof that SN is definitely among the top sportsperson earners in India. INR 1 Crore = USD $224,000 approximately, by today's conversion rates.

========== ============ ==============

Last Updated: 2010-10-28T10:09:55+05:30

Gold medal winner Saina Nehwal is in real demand as she has become the top choice of big brands. It is believed that ace shuttler’s endorsement value has reached almost Rs. 1 crore per deal.

In addition to it, Saina Nehwal lately has agreed to be the brand ambassador of telecom giant Airtel.

"She is really in demand. A lot of companies want to associate with her. She has already signed up with Airtel and at least four firms operating in areas such as food and infrastructure will come on board very soon," H Manjula, Deccan Chargers Sporting Ventures Media Coordinator said.

Deccan Chargers Sporting Ventures take care of Saina's account. Saina is not new to the endorsement market as she is already the face of Deccan Chronicle newspaper, Adani Wilmar's Fortune edible oil and Herbal life's nutritional product line.

"Corporates are willing to pay that kind of money," Manjula added.

Meanwhile, Saina also agrees that her latest achievements have increased her popularity.

“Yes, after winning the titles, my fee has gone up and I am getting a lot of endorsements now. I am happy that there is demand being created for sports persons other than cricketers," Saina said.

http://www.india-server.com/news/saina-nehwal-is-the-new-face-of-airtel-34912.html

There seems to be no restriction on SN to sign endorsements or to be brand ambassadress. This should be the case as sports champions deserve the recognition and successful companies want to be associated with global winners.
However, as recently reported, LCW cannot sign or enter into endorsements without first getting the ok from BAM for fear of 'conflict of interest'. The restriction obviously caps LCW's earning potential. He is the 'king of badminton super series' having won 15 titles to date and successful corporates want the face of an international champion to project them.

[cobalt]

Within reason, of course. You can be a brand ambassador or a great endorsement as long as you remain a great sportsperson, or great person in whatever field you choose to excel. It is indeed sad if true, that LCW cannot leverage his achievements more than "allowed" by BAM to improve his income. There may be some reason, and I can think of a good one: Often the player finds that endorsements, shoots, appearances etc take up so much of quality time, it interferes with performance, training and participation. This can be counter-productive. There was for example, a lot of criticism, some justified, of some of the superstar cricket players from India in this regard.

I hope that Saina's managers are selective with signing her on for these lucarative contracts, and maintain the balance that is so required for her to do what she does best: play great badminton! :)

[chris-ccc]

There seems to be no restriction on SN to sign endorsements or to be brand ambassadress. This should be the case as sports champions deserve the recognition and successful companies want to be associated with global winners.
However, as recently reported, LCW cannot sign or enter into endorsements without first getting the ok from BAM for fear of 'conflict of interest'. The restriction obviously caps LCW's earning potential. He is the 'king of badminton super series' having won 15 titles to date and successful corporates want the face of an international champion to project them.


.
I am hoping that one day our Badminton players can be independent as professional players.

To me, it is great that National Associations are helping to bring up players' standard for their nations.

But why tie their players down? :(:(:(

National Associations should look at themselves like schools and universities - to train players for their career. After graduation, players should be set free.

This is just my opinion.
.

[limsy]

.
I am hoping that one day our Badminton players can be independent as professional players.

To me, it is great that National Associations are helping to bring up players' standard for their nations. But why tie the players down? National Associations should look at themselves like schools and universities - to train players for their career. After graduation, players should be set free.

This is just my opinion.
.

if this is true
then those poor family wont able to afford the 'study fees'
lol
player like lcw and tbh will never emerge

[chris-ccc]

if this is true
then those poor family wont able to afford the 'study fees'
lol
player like lcw and tbh will never emerge
.
Don't worry for potential top players, limsy. :):):)

Talented players (trainees), when found, are often offered scholarships.
.

[limsy]

.
Don't worry for potential top players, limsy. :):):)

Talented players (trainees), when found, are often offered scholarships.
.

how many can get top scholarship like ratchanok.tai tzu ying,taufik or lee yong dae do?
zhang ning will have failed in this case
she only getting better and better in her late 20

[chris-ccc]

how many can get top scholarship like ratchanok.tai tzu ying,taufik or lee yong dae do?
zhang ning will have failed in this case
she only getting better and better in her late 20
.
True. Scholarships are usually awarded through a panel of judges. If the judges fail to notice the potential of a player, then that player would miss out on the scholarships. We can only blame the panel of judges. :o:o:o

We in Australia do help our potential top sportspersons. And many of our them are now earning good income.
.

[limsy]

.
True. Scholarships are usually awarded through a panel of judges. If the judges fail to notice the potential of a player, then that player would miss out on the scholarships. We can only blame the panel of judges. :o:o:o

We in Australia do help our potential top sportspersons. And many of our them are now earning good income.
.

last post before it get way too off topic
and the denmark player might find it even harder except for victor axelsen and peter gade
martin lungaard and jens erickson will also fail to shine in this case

[lcleing]

Published on Mon, Dec 20, 2010 at 07:54 | Updated at Mon, Dec 20, 2010 at 13:19 | Source : Forbes India

86197

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Read More at: http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/features/saina-nehwal-what-dedication-can-do_505899.html
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The last question of the interview comes up. We ask her if there’ll be another Saina Nehwal sometime soon. “No,” she says. “You have to train really hard to be like me. I can go on for the whole day but most girls today are very lazy. They won’t do it.”
Nicely put, simply classy. I like her character :cool:.

[OneToughBirdie]

.
I am hoping that one day our Badminton players can be independent as professional players.

To me, it is great that National Associations are helping to bring up players' standard for their nations.

But why tie their players down? :(:(:(

National Associations should look at themselves like schools and universities - to train players for their career. After graduation, players should be set free.

This is just my opinion.
.

YY sponsor BAM, and with YY $$$, BAM can fund this badminton program, send players to tournaments and the perks (flights, coaches, pay, etc) that come along. BAM players like LCW, TBH/KKK are bound by YY agreement with BAM to get permission before endorsing others. It takes a lot of $$$ investment to train and develop a player like LCW into what he is today.
So if LCW is allowed to find his own sponsors, YY sponsorship may be in jeopardy and who in future would want to sponsor BAM when after all the early years of investing $$$ into a young talent and when the talent becomes a star, this star player can walk away and choose his/her own sponsor, what if the sponsor the player choose is LN.
I am sure LN would be interested in sponsoring just one player from MAS and the baddy market that the people in MAS looks up to. Let YY do all the early sponsor/investing, and when the prospect player turns in a mega star, sign that player up, it is cheap cos LN will get it all back and more.
BAM goal is to find great baddy players to represent MAS and young players to replace the fading stars, and BAM needs $$$ from govt and sponsors to do that. So, LCW cannot have both sides of the cake...he just have to pick one like TH did.

[chris-ccc]

YY sponsor BAM, and with YY $$$, BAM can fund this badminton program, send players to tournaments and the perks (flights, coaches, pay, etc) that come along. BAM players like LCW, TBH/KKK are bound by YY agreement with BAM to get permission before endorsing others. It takes a lot of $$$ investment to train and develop a player like LCW into what he is today.
So if LCW is allowed to find his own sponsors, YY sponsorship may be in jeopardy and who in future would want to sponsor BAM when after all the early years of investing $$$ into a young talent and when the talent becomes a star, this star player can walk away and choose his/her own sponsor, what if the sponsor the player choose is LN.
I am sure LN would be interested in sponsoring just one player from MAS and the baddy market that the people in MAS looks up to. Let YY do all the early sponsor/investing, and when the prospect player turns in a mega star, sign that player up, it is cheap cos LN will get it all back and more.
BAM goal is to find great baddy players to represent MAS and young players to replace the fading stars, and BAM needs $$$ from govt and sponsors to do that. So, LCW cannot have both sides of the cake...he just have to pick one like TH did.
.
What you have said actually happened to Lin Dan, who was first playing under YY sponsorship and then later playing under LN sponsorship.

Sponsors can only tie down a player within the period of the sponsorship; It's not a contract to tie down a player forever.
.

[cobalt]

Elite players can earn their revenue from different streams.

Sponsorsip: Tied to the team, associations etc, with logos on official kits etc. Active partners in the sport in the country. Top Tier. Official "partners." Players can in addition be contracted for endorsements, active involvement, promotions etc.

Endorsements: Television commercials and other media contracts, but not directly connected to the sport. Can be either one-offs or annual or 2-year or 5-year contracts depending on the perceived benefits etc. Generally allowed by apex association as long as no conflict of interest is perceived with Official patners. Huge earning potential.

Brand Ambassador: Active participation at events, appearances etc, apart from endorsements for TV and radio commercials etc. Generally allowed by apex association as long as no conflict of interest is perceived with Official patners. Also huge earning potential.

[chris-ccc]

Published on Mon, Dec 20, 2010 at 07:54 | Updated at Mon, Dec 20, 2010 at 13:19 | Source : Forbes India

86197

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Read More at: http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/features/saina-nehwal-what-dedication-can-do_505899.html
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Nicely put, simply classy. I like her character :cool:.
.
Somehow I felt some of SN's replies were somewhat arrogant, like this reply;

Although media comparisons to Sania Mirza are unavoidable, she firmly puts it to rest. “The comparison was there; not anymore. I mean, they can compare if both of us are World No 2. She does really well in doubles but not in singles. I have won four Super Series’ which is the equivalent of Grand Slams. And she hasn’t won a single one. So there is no question of comparison.”
.

[cobalt]

.
Somehow I felt some of SN's replies were somewhat arrogant, like this reply;

Although media comparisons to Sania Mirza are unavoidable, she firmly puts it to rest. “The comparison was there; not anymore. I mean, they can compare if both of us are World No 2. She does really well in doubles but not in singles. I have won four Super Series’ which is the equivalent of Grand Slams. And she hasn’t won a single one. So there is no question of comparison.”
.

She is quite correct in her evaluation. Besides, the media in India have this totally stupid obsession with comparing the careers of the 2 girls; they are like apples and oranges! But I understand your point. :) What I found very disappointing however was this statement...

The last question of the interview comes up. We ask her if there’ll be another Saina Nehwal sometime soon. “No,” she says. “You have to train really hard to be like me. I can go on for the whole day but most girls today are very lazy. They won’t do it.”

Just very unfair. There are many young girls from the smaller towns and even villages in India who have in recent years shone in their chosen sport, even becoming international champions. They work, train and push the envelope every bit as hard as Saina does; some even more so. In fact, Saina would do well to consider that she needs to add a few more arrows to her quiver, work really hard on her backhand (how come she has virtually no backhand to speak of, is a mystery to me!! :confused::() and her courtcraft.

She has so far, been displaying a very stable and balanced head on her young shoulders. I just hope she is not getting too cocksure. Pride goes before a fall. Ask WYH.

[chris-ccc]

She is quite correct in her evaluation. Besides, the media in India have this totally stupid obsession with comparing the careers of the 2 girls; they are like apples and oranges! But I understand your point. :) What I found very disappointing however was this statement...


Just very unfair. There are many young girls from the smaller towns and even villages in India who have in recent years shone in their chosen sport, even becoming international champions. They work, train and push the envelope every bit as hard as Saina does; some even more so. In fact, Saina would do well to consider that she needs to add a few more arrows to her quiver, work really hard on her backhand (how come she has virtually no backhand to speak of, is a mystery to me!! :confused::() and her courtcraft.

She has so far, been displaying a very stable and balanced head on her young shoulders. I just hope she is not getting too cocksure. Pride goes before a fall. Ask WYH.
.
Saina Nehwal's father (a member of BadmintonCentral), and perhaps even Saina herself, is probably reading our posts. Hope that it was the press that was misquoting Saina's words.
.

[OneToughBirdie]

.
What you have said actually happened to Lin Dan, who was first playing under YY sponsorship and then later playing under LN sponsorship. Sponsors can only tie down a player within the period of the sponsorship; It's not a contract to tie down a player forever.
.

Actually the entire CHN team switches over to LN sponsorship, not LD choice. And as long as LD is playing under CHN team, then he is tied down to LN, forget YY. I think if the sponsor does not compete with LN in the same products, then LD can endorse provided CHN approves that.

[OneToughBirdie]

She is quite correct in her evaluation. Besides, the media in India have this totally stupid obsession with comparing the careers of the 2 girls; they are like apples and oranges! But I understand your point. :) What I found very disappointing however was this statement...


Just very unfair. There are many young girls from the smaller towns and even villages in India who have in recent years shone in their chosen sport, even becoming international champions. They work, train and push the envelope every bit as hard as Saina does; some even more so. In fact, Saina would do well to consider that she needs to add a few more arrows to her quiver, work really hard on her backhand (how come she has virtually no backhand to speak of, is a mystery to me!! :confused::() and her courtcraft.

She has so far, been displaying a very stable and balanced head on her young shoulders. I just hope she is not getting too cocksure. Pride goes before a fall. Ask WYH.

By the time ZN 'falls', she has earn enough to say 'bye bye', the moment is now to capitalize on her earnings, hit the kettle while it is still hot before she becomes yesterday woman and forgetable. Pro baddy is a business and a full time job...it is money that counts, the hardware is nice to look at, still money talks.
And next year with the revamped WR system, wait till CHN unleash her mighty CHN women wall and see how ZN performs or any other woman performs. CHN will be aiming to send 3 WS to qualify for OLY12. So ZN might as well, reap all the rupees she can get and bank them after all a baddy career is fleeting at best.
Even WX is not safe if she keep losing in finals.

[nokh88]

:confused: ZN ? Who is ZN? Is it SN = Saina Nehwal. I thought you were referring to Zhang Ning until the word Rupees appears.

[chris-ccc]

:confused: ZN ? Who is ZN? Is it SN = Saina Nehwal. I thought you were referring to Zhang Ning until the word Rupees appears.
.
I am sure that OneToughBirdie was posting, meaning;
ZN = Zhang Ning, and
SN = Saina Nehwal
.

[cobalt]

Zhaina Nehwal :D
OTB getting all his girls mixed up; that's a bad sign! :D:p

[OneToughBirdie]

:confused: ZN ? Who is ZN? Is it SN = Saina Nehwal. I thought you were referring to Zhang Ning until the word Rupees appears.

Typo...you are correct...I mean SN;):D

[OneToughBirdie]

Zhaina Nehwal :D
OTB getting all his girls mixed up; that's a bad sign! :D:p

Wait till we talk about seasoned and mature ladies, now I really got them all mixed up...LOL:D:p

[flite]

Wait till we talk about seasoned and mature ladies, now I really got them all mixed up...LOL:D:p

So i guess between ZN and SN, the former would be your pick!:D:p

[OneToughBirdie]

So i guess between ZN and SN, the former would be your pick!:D:p

Let's stay with SN, this is her thread...honestly, 2011 IMO will see CHN WS dominate and a scramble to make CHN OLY12 team...that is my prediction.

[cobalt]

Just found this atricle in a Mumbai paper, about 10 days old...

http://www.mid-day.com/sports/2010/dec/141210-Atik-Jauhari-Saina-Nehwal-London-Olympics-2012.htm

Saina will be Olympic champion: Coach Jauhari

By: Ashwin Ferro Date: 2010-12-14 Place: Pune


Ace shuttler's coach Atik Jauhari is confident of gold in London 2012

Indonesian master coach Atik Jauhari could not have wished to return home to Jakarta on a better high as he prepares to pack his bags given his contract with the Indian badminton team expires at the end of this month.

"Saina Nehwal's Hong Kong Super Series win (on Sunday) has been one of the most satisfying results of my 29-month long stint with Indian badminton. I can now happily go home and rest considering it's a job well done," the 62-year-old told MiD DAY from Hyderabad yesterday.


http://www.mid-day.com/imagedata/2010/dec/saina1.jpg
Saina Nehwal


No telephone call
Surprisingly, even as Saina's mobile phone would have been continuously busy since Sunday as she would have been answering congratulatory messages from across the world, Jauhari and his ward have not had a chat. "We don't talk over the phone. I prefer to talk to her in person and so will be meeting her tomorrow at the Gopichand Academy," said Jauhari, who was all praise for the manner in which Saina calculatedly decimated her Chinese opponent Wang Shixian in the final.

Mental toughness
"Saina could have easily lost the match after she went down in the first game. But it's mental toughness that got her through. She worked around Wang and eventually prevailed (15-21, 21-16, 21-17). It's a well earned victory," explained Jauhari, who has previously coached legends of the game like Indonesian Lim Swie King and India's Prakash Padukone.

For those who believe Saina's Asian Games disappointment was shocking, here's an antithesis. "There was less than a month between the New Delhi Commonwealth Games (Oct 3-14) and the Guangzhou Asian Games (Nov 12-27). And to add to this, since Saina won gold in Delhi there were loads of felicitation functions to attend too. This left her with absolutely no time to prepare for the Asian Games. So, I don't think her defeat in the quarter-finals of the Asiad is all that shocking," said Jauhari, even as he predicted a golden future ahead for the 20-year-old Hyderabadi.

Five years to peak
"The golden age for a singles player is 25, so Saina has a long way to reach that peak age. Besides, most of her top opponents are older than her, which means they will quit the game by the time she hits her peak. I believe Saina will be an Olympic champion in London," said Jauhari.

[OneToughBirdie]

That is bold prediction, to say OLY12 gold in LD...nothing to discredit SN win in HK10 but WSX has nothing left in her leg in the 3rd set and waiting for "Saina calculatedly decimated her Chinese opponent Wang Shixian in the final", that would be true if SN capitalized on WSX tiredness.
The biggest obstacle facing SN and rest of the world WS are from CHN, OLY12 rules allow max 3 WS from one country if they finished in the top 4 WR. I predict 2011 will see CHN fight hard to qualify 3 player and SS winners will be dominated by CHN. If Jauhari meant Tine, WMC are gonzo in OLY12 because they are old, I agree but not CHN WS, they just hit peak time.
OLY12 WS gold will be CHN, I bet on that. The world needs SN, otherwise WS is the same CHN vrs CHN, great players, great performances though but not the same as nation vrs nation.

[CLELY]

The Telegraph - Calcutta (Kolkata), Friday | December 24, 2010

BWF pulls up Saina for pull-out
OUR BUREAU

Mumbai/New Delhi: Star Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal faces disciplinary action and a fine of $5000 after the Badminton World Federation (BWF) issued her a showcause notice on Thursday for pulling out of the BWF Super Series final, to be held in Taipei, next month.


World No. 4 Saina pulled out of the Super Series final, to be played between January 5 and 9, citing a ligament strain in her left leg, the same injury that kept her out of the Indian Open Grand Prix, in Hyderabad, last week.


Admitting that she has received a letter from the international body, Saina said: “They (BWF) have asked for documentary evidence of injury. I will be sending the papers tomorrow (Friday),” said the ace shuttler.


Speaking on the matter, Saina’s father Harbir Singh said: “The letter from the BWF says Saina’s withdrawal has been accepted, but it goes on to mention that we have to submit the proof (of injury) and that the matter will go to the disciplinary committee.


“We wanted to give her two weeks’ rest. That’s why she didn’t play last week. But the swelling, which subsided after some rest, came back after she started practising.


“We will give the doctor’s certificate, that’s all we can do. We don’t know how they will decide.”
--------------------------------------------------
*Full article : http://www.telegraphindia.com/1101224/jsp/sports/story_13342884.jsp

[limsy]

lol
did cba get fined for 2008 and 2009?
it will be a big fat money for bwf if they using same standard
lol

[OneToughBirdie]

lol
did cba get fined for 2008 and 2009?
it will be a big fat money for bwf if they using same standard
lol

Aiya...BWF is a paper tiger when the real tiger LYB shows up and bark louder than BWF and BWF turns chicken...BWF only frighthen the small chicken who doesn't and can't fight back...anyway, in India, no problem getting doctor certificate, if BWF wants more, SN's dad can easily get more certificates...LOL:D:p

[cobalt]

Aiya...BWF is a paper tiger when the real tiger LYB shows up and bark louder than BWF and BWF turns chicken...BWF only frighthen the small chicken who doesn't and can't fight back...anyway, in India, no problem getting doctor certificate, if BWF wants more, SN's dad can easily get more certificates...LOL:D:p

So... there is nothing wrong with Saina in your opinion?

[chris-ccc]

So... there is nothing wrong with Saina in your opinion?
.
I would guess that SN's injury is true because she has been indicating all along that she would like to win the WS title at the SS Masters Finals.
.

[cobalt]

Saina to skip Malaysian Open too

M Ratnakar, TNN, Jan 6, 2011, 01.52am IST

HYDERABAD: A nagging ankle injury forced Saina Nehwal to withdraw from the Malaysian Open Super Series, scheduled to kick off on January 18.

This would be the third straight tournament she will be missing after injuring her right ankle in the final of the Hong Kong Open Super Series on December 19.

Confirming this, chief coach of the Indian team Pullela Gopichand told TOI: "She is making rapid progress, but is not fit enough for such a big tournament. Hopefully, she will recover soon," Gopichand said, adding that the world No.4 will be fit to play the Korea Super Series.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/Saina-to-skip-Malaysian-Open-too/articleshow/7225787.cms

[avataar]

what makes saina special is the consistency of her performance in top level over the last few years and her ability to bounce back from nagging injuries

this hasnt been the case with quiet a few recent young indian players, starting with
- anup sridhar : talked abt a lot after his win for TH at the 07 WC and then has just faded away after persistant injury issues.
- arvind bhat : came back to top action post 27yrs of age and after recuperating from injury. did well in 08 and early 09 but again very inconsistent performances since then
- aditi mutatkar : to me if she only managed to stay fit, this girl can do wonders. she is the only other indian player who can disturb saina. after a wonder year in 08 and a promising start to 09 where she was competetive even against chinese players, she has been plagued by injuries .... (though she is now in the finals of the indian nationals)

her adulation is purely because of her ability to be able to bring in results and all her glory is well deserved....

[cobalt]

Avataar, you are quite right. Most of the Indian shuttlers are fundamentally laissez-faire, and believe that pushing themsleves completely out of their comfort zone is not really worth it in life. The sub-continental physique, lifestyle, culture and default diet all do not lend themselves well to excelling at a game like badminton, where agility, speed, strength and explosive power need to be allied to skill, deception, grace and lightness of foot. So they need to overcome many fundamental obstacles, i.e., work harder and put themselves totally out fo their comfort zone with single minded determination. Just like Saina has done. But how many are willing to do that? Nowadays we see even the younger players from powerhouses like Malyasia and Indonesia with the same easy-going attitude. Its really a shame.

[lcleing]

[

Nowadays we see even the younger players from powerhouses like Malyasia and Indonesia with the same easy-going attitude. Its really a shame.

I think there's also a subtle change in culture and mentality in the younger generations these days which contribute to their mediocrity. Hard work and persistency are no longer considered as absolute virtue in modern day life. Those virtues have often been distorted and labelled as 'uncooled' by those people who are used to very comfortable life(majority of the folks who were raised in big cities). Rather people who took something seriously and work hard to excel in a field are often thought as 'freaks'. Popular derogatory words like 'nerds' and 'geeks' are byproducts of such culture. And yes, you get penalized for not being 'ordinary' enough, which is why you see more and more youngters are engaging in idiotic acts(excessive drinking and loitering in clubs doing absolutely nothing) out of peer pressure.

The ease of gettting into higher education (compared to few decades ago) doesn't help either. After all who want to train hard and get your muscle sore everyday? You can do so much better by just enterting a local university, party almost everynight and still get out of the university with a degree. And with that degree, you generally won't have much trouble getting a job for living(provided you are not too ambitous).


Why so serious?-- a catch phase from the film 'the dark knight' perfectly illustrate such scenario in modern day life. This is all due to the diminishing return in profit in climbing up the ladder. The same thing is happening in academic, when you earn lesser, say than an undergraduate, when you really have a higher qualification(PhD, postdoc etc...). The fundamental flaw of our modern day system is, you earn 'too much'(as least enough to survive and still being able to enjoy non-excessively) by being 'ordinary'(ordinary as in being a degree holder not speciaizing in anything). Please don't tell me that one is good in economic just because they have an undergraduate degree in economic. They know far lesser than the proffesor in an univeristy and yet earn much more on average compared to the professors.

The same thing is happening in sport. Will you choose a harder route (train as badminton player) when you really could put in half the effort you spend in training to pursue a degree, while still very likely to end up having a better paid than badminton players? I think the answer is obvious. Even you push yourself to give up an easier path and strive for excellence in sport career, doubts will creep in when things don't go that well. Many people dropout along the way. Which is why talents are hard to come by these days. China has started to feel its effect as a result of economic bloom in recent years. How long can she keep her dominance in badminton, that's one interesting question I would wanna know.

I have disgress but this also show how much one has to sacrifice in order to reach for the top. Saina Nehwal deserve absolute credit for being focus and know what she exactly wants.

[cobalt]

Great post, LcLeing! Makes for very interesting reading, and perfectly illustrates the malaise that our society has to deal with today.

The sub-text of this post is something that people should really take time off to understand. :)

[CLELY]

Image makeover for super Saina Nehwal

Ankita Pandey Vallikappen, TNN, Feb 6, 2011, 12.30am IST


MUMBAI: Her hair is streaked blonde. The chunky bangle on her arm perfectly matches the large purple bag and her top. The make-up is subtle and she looks a million bucks. Saina Nehwal walks into the room looking more glamorous than ever before. The group gathered is of the members of Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ) foundation to honour her with a plaque for her achievements. Everyone takes notice and approves. The new avatar, she says, is thanks to the ankle injury she sustained last December.

"Recuperating at home, I had ample time. I thought let me experiment. I had to spend three hours in the parlour for the highlights. And dressing up is something I am learning after going for photo-shoots for magazines and advertisements. The results are showing, I guess," she says.


-----------------------------------------------
Read more through The Times of India.com -- http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/Image-makeover-for-super-Saina-Nehwal/articleshow/7434057.cms

[extremenanopowe]

All the best for saina this year. Below are some of her best. ;)

http://www.youtube.com/user/xtremexn?feature=mhum#p/a/f/0/tlxwuxNLIfU

[cobalt]

http://www.thehindu.com/sport/other-sports/article1512908.ece

V. V. Subrahmanyam
HYDERABAD, March 5, 2011

World No. 5 Saina Nehwal says her focus will mainly be on achieving consistency throughout the tournament in next week's All-England championship.

“It all boils down to how well you play from the start to finish in such an event. Even the best players sometimes struggle. So I am looking at getting the basics right” the champion shuttler told The Hindu.

“Honestly, my semifinal appearance in the last edition was a bit of a surprise even for me. But, things have changed a lot since then and at this level you cannot take any opponent for granted,” said Saina.

“Given my current world ranking, there will be some pressure in terms of expectations. But, I am used to these things and I am in a good frame of mind,” said Saina.

“Looking at the draw, I think I might run into different Chinese players with the same style of play. You have to be doubly careful when you face them and you should be able to come up with the right blend of caution and aggression.

“I am not scared of the Chinese but I have to be at my best,” she said.

“The four-week training programme under Gopi Sir at his Academy here was really good and I am feeling fresh and ready for the challenge,” she said.

India's chief National coach P. Gopi Chand believes Saina has a great chance this time.
“Given her ranking, her growing reputation and the all-round improvement in her game, she can go a long way,” he said.

[chris-ccc]

[URL]
India's chief National coach P. Gopi Chand believes Saina has a great chance this time.

“Given her ranking, her growing reputation and the all-round improvement in her game, she can go a long way,” he said.
.
Hope so. :):):)

If girls from other countries can do it, I am sure Saina can do it too.
.

[weeyeh]

“Looking at the draw, I think I might run into different Chinese players with the same style of play. ..."

Barring any Chinese who seep into to Q2 and Q4, if Saina beats just 1 Chinese, she will be the AE 2011 Champion!!

[madbad]

Barring any Chinese who seep into to Q2 and Q4, if Saina beats just 1 Chinese, she will be the AE 2011 Champion!!

Yes, the chips all seem to be falling in place for Saina. What a lop-sided draw for the AE WS. Top heavy with Chinese

[cobalt]

Bae Seung Hee is no pushover (if she is in the correct frame of mind... :D)...
But I'd love to see Saina v/s Ratchanok in the semis!

[madbad]

Bae Seung Hee is no pushover (if she is in the correct frame of mind... :D)...
But I'd love to see Saina v/s Ratchanok in the semis!

As far as I can see, BSH peaked at the UC last year. She has not been that impressive since then. Plus she is a year older and at her age, one year counts for a lot

[cobalt]

Why is Saina in a downward spiral for the past 3 months or more? Is it just her physical condition and injury? Or is there something more to it?


Unseeded Hirose sends fancied Saina out of All England

M Ratnakar, TNN | Mar 12, 2011, 09.19pm IST

HYDERABAD: Saina Nehwal's All England dream went up in smoke with a shocking defeat at the hands of Eriko Hirose of Japan 11-21, 20-22 in the quarterfinals at Birmingham on Friday.

Unperturbed by the devastation caused by the tsunami back home, unseeded Hirose ousted Saina, touted as the hot favourite to reach the final after the withdrawal of defending champion Tine Baun and former world No. 1 Wang Yihan from the bottom half of the draw.

full story: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/badminton/Unseeded-Hirose-sends-fancied-Saina-out-of-All-England/articleshow/7688073.cms

[cobalt]

Saina stunned in quarters

It was supposed to be her best chance of winning the coveted title but Saina Nehwal let it slip as she went down in straight games to unseeded Japanese Eriko Hirose in the quarterfinals of the prestigious All England Badminton Championship.

The fifth-seeded Saina, who was expected to win at the event given teh absence of some top Chinese players, lost 21-11 22-20 to her little-known Japanese rival yesterday.

Full story: http://www.mumbaimirror.com/index.aspx?page=article&sectid=8&contentid=201103132011031305381060736d3b74

[chris-ccc]

Saina stunned in quarters

It was supposed to be her best chance of winning the coveted title but Saina Nehwal let it slip as she went down in straight games to unseeded Japanese Eriko Hirose in the quarterfinals of the prestigious All England Badminton Championship.

The fifth-seeded Saina, who was expected to win at the event given the absence of some top Chinese players, lost 21-11 22-20 to her little-known Japanese rival yesterday.

Full story: http://www.mumbaimirror.com/index.aspx?page=article&sectid=8&contentid=201103132011031305381060736d3b74
.
Perhaps, Saina has not fully recovered from her last injury.
.

[cobalt]

.
Perhaps, Saina has not fully recovered from her last injury.
.

I'm not so sure about that. I'm sure the BAI will trot that out as a convenient excuse sooner or later.

However, I still have very serious doubts about the quality and efficacy of the training/coaching setup. There appears to be many deficiencies, and the most glaring is the absence of world-class coaching talent. I have repeatedly criticized Saina's visibly apparent bulk and inefficient muscle tone. Her shuffle to retrieve drops has always left her at a disadvantage. Her backhand is embarrasingly rudimentary. If a bystander can see all this, what have the BAI training/coaching staff been doing about it?

From what I saw of her play at the AE2011, she did not even make the effort to get back to base position from the baseline, on so many instances I lost count. That left her hopelessly out of position, time and again. Couple that with her vulnerability against sharp drops, and you have a recipe for disaster. And that's what happened.

[undeadshot]

Saina Nehwal does not have the mental strength to make it in major tournaments, similar or even worse than LCW back in 2008. She has to toughen up her mental strength like LCW before she can contend for major titles...

[chris-ccc]

I'm not so sure about that. I'm sure the BAI will trot that out as a convenient excuse sooner or later.

However, I still have very serious doubts about the quality and efficacy of the training/coaching setup. There appears to be many deficiencies, and the most glaring is the absence of world-class coaching talent. I have repeatedly criticized Saina's visibly apparent bulk and inefficient muscle tone. Her shuffle to retrieve drops has always left her at a disadvantage. Her backhand is embarrasingly rudimentary. If a bystander can see all this, what have the BAI training/coaching staff been doing about it?

From what I saw of her play at the AE2011, she did not even make the effort to get back to base position from the baseline, on so many instances I lost count. That left her hopelessly out of position, time and again. Couple that with her vulnerability against sharp drops, and you have a recipe for disaster. And that's what happened.
.
Many BCers have thought that Saina needs to work more on her footwork.
.

[cobalt]

Saina Nehwal does not have the mental strength to make it in major tournaments, similar or even worse than LCW back in 2008. She has to toughen up her mental strength like LCW before she can contend for major titles...

I would like to disagree. If anything, she is actually incredibly strong, mentally. But she is being handled incorrectly and inefficiently. Moreover, since the CWG success in New Delhi, she has become the star poster-girl for sports in India, and has been increasingly in demand in events in India that take up her time and attention, and have nothing to do with her training. :(

Compare this to the expert and highly professional manner in which the CBA girls are handled...

[allidzrused]

Congrats Saina on winning the swiss open!

[chris-ccc]

.
Congratulations to Saina for winning at the 2011 Swiss Open. :):):)

Here is an article from Indian Express;

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/saina-gets-back-to-winning-ways/765135/

====== * ====== start article ====== * ======

Mon Mar 21 2011, 00:41 hrs
New Delhi

Ace-shuttler Saina Nehwal notched up her first title of the year, clinching the Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold trophy with a straight-game victory in the summit clash against Ji Hyun Sung of Korea in Switzerland on Sunday.

Second seed Saina beat Ji Hyun 21-13 21-14 in 43 minutes to make amends for her quarterfinal exit from the All England Super Series in Birmingham last week.

The world number four Indian had beaten the unseeded Korean, ranked 19th, during the first round of Indonesia Open Super Series last year.

Saina, who had a subdued beginning to the year after recovering from a ligament injury, showed her mettle all through the tournament to swell her trophy cabinet.

Ji Hyun tried to keep pace with Saina till 7-7 but the Indian was indomitable as she broke off from their and surged ahead with gaint strides to pocket the first game comfortably.

In the second game, Saina was ruthless as she opened a four-point lead at 7-3, and held fort to canter to her first title of the season.

The 21-year-old Saina had won three Super Series titles last year — Singapore, Indonesia and Hong Kong Open — besides winning the Commonwealth Games gold and India Grand Prix gold.

She also won the Indonesian Super Series in 2009 besides winning the Chinese Taipei Open Grand Prix Gold in 2008.

====== * ====== end article ====== * ======
.

[skchen]

Congrats Saina on winning the swiss open!

Good for Saina in winning the 2011 Wilson SBO.
However, she should not have lost to EH in the quarter-final of the AE.
Had she not lost, she could have beaten Petya Nedelcheva in the semi-final and played against WXS in the final. The AE is a prestigious SS premier tournament whereas the WSBO is just a gold grand prix tournament. It was a SS tournament from 2007 to 2010.

[cobalt]

Congratulations to Saina. But I also observe that she had to grind it out in 3 games against Eriko Hirose once again at the Swiss Open as well; almost didn't make it...

The Indian media talk a lot about her ligament injury etc, but I have not seen the BAI or her coaches making any statement about her condition over the past month. She picked up the injury last December; it takes about 4 weeks at most with proper physiotherapy etc, so I don't see how they can use that as any sort of excuse for sub-par performance.

[chris-ccc]

Congratulations to Saina. But I also observe that she had to grind it out in 3 games against Eriko Hirose once again at the Swiss Open as well; almost didn't make it...

The Indian media talk a lot about her ligament injury etc, but I have not seen the BAI or her coaches making any statement about her condition over the past month. She picked up the injury last December; it takes about 4 weeks at most with proper physiotherapy etc, so I don't see how they can use that as any sort of excuse for sub-par performance.
.
Currently, what I find is: SN is trying to play with more aggression (to smash more).

Probably trying to move faster to get into position to smash (Footwork) has caused her ligament problem.
.

[demolidor]

India Today - Woman
March 2011

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee126/apis4/Untitled-2-5.jpg