Saina Nehwal and Parupalli Kashyap Separate After Seven Years of Marriage

Star badminton player Saina Nehwal has officially announced her separation from fellow badminton player Parupalli Kashyap after nearly seven years of marriage. Both renowned in the Indian badminton community, the couple tied the knot in 2018 after a long-term relationship. Nehwal shared the news through an Instagram post on Sunday, 13 July, indicating their decision to part ways.

This unexpected announcement has taken many by surprise, particularly because of their prominence in the sports world. Saina and Parupalli, who both trained at the esteemed Pullela Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad, have been significant figures in Indian badminton, with Nehwal earning an Olympic bronze medal and Kashyap securing a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games.

Details of the Separation

In her Instagram message, Saina expressed, “Life takes us in different directions sometimes. After much thought and consideration, Kashyap Parupalli and I have decided to part ways. We’re choosing peace, growth, and healing—for ourselves and each other. I’m grateful for the memories and wish nothing but the best moving forward. Thank you for understanding and respecting our privacy during this time.” As of now, Parupalli has not made a public statement regarding the separation.

The Evolution of Their Relationship

Saina and Parupalli’s relationship dates back well before their marriage, having been together for over a decade. Their partnership extended into their professional lives, with Parupalli taking on a coaching role to support Saina during the later years of her career.

While together, Saina and Parupalli exhibited a strong connection both on and off the badminton court. Kashyap played a crucial role in Saina’s training, particularly when she was working to make a comeback after injury setbacks following the 2016 season. Over the years, his role evolved from that of a sparring partner to a strategic mentor.

Performance Under Coaching

In 2019, Saina showcased remarkable performance under Parupalli’s mentorship, particularly highlighted by her victory over PV Sindhu in the National Championships. His constant availability and tactical guidance during both domestic and international tournaments showcased the dynamic support they provided each other.

While the announcement signifies an end to their marriage, Saina and Parupalli’s shared experiences have made a lasting impression on Indian badminton. Saina last participated in a professional tournament in June 2023, while Parupalli has continued to dedicate himself to coaching.