Glasgow, Scotland – One of India’s most decorated badminton players, Saina Nehwal, has publicly expressed her disappointment following the decision to exclude badminton from the 2026 Commonwealth Games program in Glasgow. The move, announced recently, has sparked debate within the sporting community, particularly in India, a nation with a strong track record in the sport.
Nehwal, a former world No. 1 and Olympic bronze medalist, questioned the timing and rationale behind the omission, especially considering India’s consistent success in badminton at previous Commonwealth Games. “I feel awful since we have been doing well in badminton and have been winning,” Nehwal stated, reflecting the sentiments of many athletes and fans. “We are not going this time. But as sportspersons, we just have to train and be ready.”
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will mark a significant shift for the multi-sport event, as organizers aim to streamline the program. However, the exclusion of badminton, a sport that has consistently delivered medals for India, is viewed by many as a setback for the sport’s visibility and growth within the Commonwealth framework. India secured multiple medals in badminton at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, demonstrating the nation’s prowess in the discipline.
Nehwal, who won gold in women’s singles at the 2010 and 2018 Commonwealth Games, emphasized the importance of focusing on other major events, such as the Asian Games and the Olympics. “I can only notify the players to focus on the upcoming Asian Games, Olympics, and other super series. I am sure if badminton comes again, it will be a good thing,” she said. This pragmatic approach underscores the resilience required of athletes in the face of changing sporting landscapes.
The decision to drop badminton from the 2026 Games raises broader questions about the future direction of the event. Is the Commonwealth Games evolving into a more streamlined, commercially-focused competition, or will it maintain its commitment to inclusivity and a wide range of sporting disciplines? The answer will likely shape the event’s appeal to both participating nations and its global audience.
Beyond the Commonwealth Games situation, Nehwal recently offered support to fellow Indian badminton player Lakshya Sen following his narrow defeat in the All England Open Badminton Championships. Sen lost a closely contested final to Lin Chun-Yi, missing the opportunity to join an exclusive group of Indian champions at the prestigious tournament – Prakash Padukone and Pullela Gopichand.
“I also missed it in 2015. I think it is a matter of luck. He tried his level best. He played well throughout the tournament,” Nehwal recalled, referencing her own runner-up finish at the All England Open. She highlighted Sen’s impressive run to the final, which included a victory over then-world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi, as evidence of his potential. “He is performing very well. I feel really sad. That shows that we have the capability to grow the world’s best. It’s just that we need more hard work and dedication,” she added.
Nehwal also acknowledged the depth of talent within Indian badminton, mentioning P.V. Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth, and H.S. Prannoy as key players who contribute to the nation’s success. This strong pool of athletes provides a positive outlook for the future of the sport in India, even amidst the disappointment of the Commonwealth Games exclusion.
The veteran player’s comments underscore the complex challenges facing athletes in a constantly evolving sporting world. The ability to adapt, remain focused, and maintain mental fortitude are crucial qualities for success, particularly when faced with unexpected setbacks like the removal of a major competition from the calendar. For Nehwal, and for Indian badminton as a whole, the focus now shifts to preparing for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead on the international stage.
The omission of badminton from the 2026 Commonwealth Games is a significant development that will undoubtedly impact the sport’s profile within the Commonwealth. Even as the decision has been met with disappointment, athletes like Saina Nehwal are demonstrating a commitment to overcoming adversity and continuing to strive for excellence in other major competitions.
The next major test for the Indian badminton team will be the upcoming Asian Games, where they will aim to build on their recent successes and further solidify their position as a global force in the sport. Fans can follow updates on the team’s progress through official tournament websites and news outlets.
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