Jakarta: Indian badminton star Saina Nehwal claimed her first BWF title in two years after three-time World Champion Carolina Marin of Spain limped out of the Indonesia Masters final due to a leg injury, here Sunday.
The London Olympics bronze medallist was trailing 4-10 in the opening game when Marin decided to withdraw from the contest.
“It is important year for all of us. This was not good at all. She is a tough competitor, she started off well and it is unfortunate what happened today,” said Saina, who last won a BWF title in 2017 in Malaysia.
It is a creditable performance for the Indian, who had suffered a shin injury late last year. “I just came out of injury. I played this event to see how much I have recovered and I’m happy I could play the semifinals at Malaysia and final here. Looking forward to getting back to shape and play the next tournament,” informed Saina. It must be said here that Saina had lost in the semifinals of the Malaysia Masters to Marin.
“I have been getting injured in the last few years. I always try to come back stronger, there is no secret. I want to thank my physios and coaches who are supporting me a lot,” added the former World No.1
Saina had won a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, a bronze at the Asian Games, besides reaching the finals at the Denmark, Indonesia Masters and Syed Modi International tournaments.
PTI