Exclusive : Saina Nehwal Talks Legacy, Young Talent, and The Legends’ Vision Tour

There are athletes, and then there is Saina Nehwal. A World Junior Champion, India’s first woman to win an Olympic medal in badminton, and a former World No. 1. Her achievements didn’t just break records; they inspired an entire generation to pick up a racket.

But beyond the medals and titles, Saina understands what badminton means at the grassroots level in India. That’s why it felt so fitting to see the Padma Bhushan awardee in Delhi, leading The Legends’ Vision – Legacy Tour India, a global initiative that works to grow the sport through junior training, community events, and local partnerships. She was joined by Denmark’s legendary Peter Gade, one of the greats of world badminton.

Stepping back on court in her home country was a powerful moment for Saina. “It brought back so many memories, the early morning practices, long training days, and the discipline it takes to stay committed,” she says. “I realised how far I’ve come, and how those early struggles shaped me. It felt emotional because so many young Indians now look up to me. It was like coming full circle.”

As India prepares for the next big wave of badminton talent, Saina has her eyes on the future. “Unnati Huda is very promising, and of course we have PV Sindhu with us,” she says with confidence. “I truly believe both of them can do very well in the next Olympics.”

One of the most personal moments Saina shared during the tour was about her childhood — and a single belief that changed everything. “I’ll never forget when I was nine years old, my mother told me I would win an Olympic medal,” she recalls. “I actually laughed because I had only just started playing. But she believed in me so strongly. That one moment gave me the courage to dream big. It became the motivation that pushed me through every challenge.”

Saina also spoke about why she remains passionate about supporting young players today. “Sometimes all a child needs is one racket, one chance, or one person who believes in them,” she says. “If I can be that support for someone, I feel I’m giving back to the sport that gave me everything.”

And if badminton ever had the drama of a walk-on theme, Saina already knows her pick. “Anytime Chak De plays, I’m instantly charged,” she laughs. “If I had to enter a match with a song, that would be it. It makes you want to give your best.”