Indian badminton master Ajay Jayaram had a career-best ranking in 2017, ranking 13th in the world. After nearly 20 years in badminton, he decided to quit. The 34-year-old, the self-proclaimed Czech International and Dutch Open champion, made the same statement on social media.
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“Like all good things come to an end, so will my nearly 20-year professional badminton career. I have decided to retire from badminton and I am writing this with tears in my eyes and a choked throat.”
“As I’m immersed in these overwhelming emotions, I want to celebrate and appreciate all that badminton and sport has given me.”
“Badminton defines most of what I am today. It has shaped me, taught me, and kept my feet on what I dreamed of doing,” Jayaram reflects on his relationship with the sport.
“I’ve won, lost, cried, laughed, struggled, experienced highs and lows, lived and prospered, all in a 44-by-20-foot rectangle,” the emotional athlete said.
“My mom, dad, sister, coach, fiancé, friends, colleagues, competitors, sponsors, physiotherapist, coach have all played an integral role in shaping my career and I will be forever grateful for them.”
Jayaram, the first Indian to win a medal at the Korea Open, expressed his gratitude to those who made his career a success.
“To all my lovely fans, followers, critics and well-wishers, you supported me when I was struggling and celebrated with me when I won. Unconditional support is everything to an athlete. Love you. “
When it comes to his future, the badminton player, who played for the Mumbai Rockets in the badminton Premier League, was not explicit.
“While I do feel a huge void, the silver lining is that I’ll be jumping into new, exciting territory, but more tomorrow.”
“Right now, I’m trying to get everyone to understand that,” the statement concluded.
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