Top 10 Indian Badminton Players [Legendary Players of Badminton]

Pinkey Sharma |

Badminton |

2024-12-09 |

null mins read

Badminton Players

Table of Contents

One of the most famous sports in India is badminton, which has a long history of success at the international level. Badminton players from India have regularly put on great shows over the years, earning praise all over the world. Whether it's the Olympics, the World Championships, or the famous All England Open, Indian shuttlers keep shining and making young people want to play.

Indian badminton became famous after Prakash Padukone won the historic gold medal at the 1978 Commonwealth Games. In 1982, he was given the nobel Padma Bhushan. Young Indian tennis players like P.V. Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, and Lakshya Sen carry on this tradition and inspire others to do their best on the court.

This blog post will talk about the Top 10 Indian Badminton Players who have had a big effect on the sport at home and around the world.

List of Top 10 Badminton Players of India:-

Given Below is the list of Indian Best 10 Badminton Players:-

1. P.V. Sindhu – The Iconic Champion

P.V. Sindhu is captured in action on the badminton court, wearing a sports jersey, showcasing her focus as she prepares to deliver a decisive shot. A legend with 2 Olympic medals to her name.

Without a question, P.V. Sindhu is one of India's most famous athletes and a badminton legend around the world. She is one of the best badminton players in the world and has won two Olympic medals in her long and successful career. It is very rare for a badminton player to win back-to-back Olympic medals. Sindhu won a silver medal in Rio 2016 and a bronze medal in Tokyo 2020. In 2019, she won India's first-ever gold prize at the BWF World Championships. That was her proudest moment.

India is known as a badminton giant because of her success on the world stage. In addition to her Olympic success, Sindhu has won a number of BWF World Tour wins and has always been one of the best female tennis players in the world.

Category

Details

Date of Birth

December 5, 1995

Place of Birth

Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Statistics

Tournament

Year

Medal

Event

Olympic Games

2016 Rio de Janeiro

🥈 Silver

Women's Singles

Olympic Games

2020 Tokyo

🥉 Bronze

Women's Singles

World Championships

2019 Basel

🥇 Gold

Women's Singles

Interesting Facts

  • At age 21, P.V. Sindhu won an Olympic silver medal, making her the youngest Indian woman to do so.

  • She won the first gold medal for an Indian woman in the World Championships (2019).

  • In 2020, P.V. Sindhu was named the highest-paid female athlete in India, earning more than other well-known female athletes.


2. Kidambi Srikanth – A Trailblazer in Men’s Badminton

Kidambi Srikanth is poised mid-game, about to smash the shuttlecock, reflecting his agility and skill. One of India's top shuttlers with four Super Series titles in 2017 alone.

Kidambi Srikanth has become one of India's best male badminton players. He is known for playing aggressively and being very consistent. He made history in 2017 when he became the first Indian male shuttler to win the BWF World Super Series Final. He had won many other tournaments, too, like the Indian Open in 2014 and the China Open in 2015. He has also consistently been in the top 10 of the BWF rankings, which shows how good he is at the highest level of competition. People who like and dislike Srikanth both praise his speed, agility, and smart play. In men's singles badminton, he is one of the toughest rivals because he stays calm and performs well under pressure.

Category

Details

Date of Birth

February 7, 1993

Place of Birth

Ravulapalem, Andhra Pradesh, India

Statistics

Tournament

Year

Medal

Event

BWF Super Series Final

2017

🥇 Gold

Men's Singles

Indian Open

2014

🥇 Gold

Men's Singles

China Open

2015

🥇 Gold

Men's Singles

Interesting Facts

  • With his four Super Series wins in 2017, Srikanth became the first Indian player to reach this level of success.

  • Srikanth was the first man from India to win the BWF World Super Series Finals.

  • The way Srikanth acts is known for being cool and calm, which helps him do well when the game is on the line.


3. Saina Nehwal – The Pioneer of Indian Badminton

Saina Nehwal is intensely focused on the court, gripping her racket with precision. She made history as the first Indian woman to achieve a World No. 1 ranking and clinch an Olympic medal.

Many people consider Saina Nehwal to be one of the main contributors to the growth of badminton in India because of her unmatched contributions to the game. In 2012, she created Olympic history by being the first Indian woman to win a bronze medal. Following her triumph in the London Olympics, she went on to fulfil a number of additional goals, such as becoming the first Indian woman to rank #1 in the world in badminton in 2015. Saina has dominated a number of major competitions, such as the Commonwealth Games, where she took home the gold in 2010, and the All England Open.

Category

Details

Date of Birth

March 17, 1990

Place of Birth

Hisar, Haryana, India

Statistics

Tournament

Year

Medal

Event

Olympic Games

2012 London

🥉 Bronze

Women's Singles

World Ranking

2015

🥇 No. 1

Women's Singles

Commonwealth Games

2010

🥇 Gold

Women's Singles

Interesting Facts

  • Before Saina Nehwal, no other Indian woman had ever been ranked No. 1 in the world in badminton.

  • Also, Saina was the first Indian athlete to win a medal at the World Junior.

  • People think of her as one of India's best players ever because she has won two gold medals at the Commonwealth Games.


4. Lakshya Sen – A Young Star with a Bright Future

Lakshya Sen is seen smiling brightly after a match victory, wearing a vibrant sports jersey. At just 16 years old, he made history by winning his first BWF Super Series title.

One of the most promising young players in Indian badminton, Lakshya Sen, has established himself on the global scene quite rapidly. Lakshya, a gifted and adaptable athlete, made waves at the 2021 World Championships by taking home a bronze medal, making history as one of the youngest Indian athletes to do so. He is a formidable opponent in both singles and doubles competitions with to his aggressive style of play and keen court awareness.

At just 16 years old, Lakshya made history in 2016 by becoming the youngest male Indian to win a BWF Super Series title at the Bahrain International Challenge. He has steadily advanced since then, becoming one of India's most talented badminton players.

Category

Details

Date of Birth

August 16, 2001

Place of Birth

Almora, Uttarakhand, India

Statistics

Tournament

Year

Medal

Event

World Championships

2021

🥉 Bronze

Men's Singles

India Open

2022

🥇 Gold

Men's Singles

Interesting Facts

  • He was the youngest Indian man to win a BWF Super Series title when he won the Bahrain International Challenge in 2016.

  • He won the junior world title twice before moving up to the top level.

  • People love to watch Lakshya play because he can switch from defence to offence so quickly.


5. Prakash Padukone – A Legend Who Paved the Way

Prakash Padukone is in action on the court, epitomizing grace and skill as the first Indian to win the prestigious All England Championship in 1980.

Most people agree that Prakash Padukone invented modern Indian badminton. Being the first Indian to win this esteemed championship, his incredible career consists in a historic triumph at the All England Open Badminton Championships in 1980. Additionally rated World No. 1 in 1980, Padukone's accomplishment strengthened his reputation in the sport.

Beyond his playing career, he has been quite helpful in coaching and mentoring the following generation of Indian badminton players. He has also been instrumental in bringing the game front and front in India popular.

Category

Details

Date of Birth

June 10, 1955

Place of Birth

Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Statistics

Tournament

Year

Medal

Event

All England Open

1980

🥇 Gold

Men's Singles

World Ranking

1980

🥇 No. 1

Men's Singles

Interesting Facts

  • Some of the oldest and most important badminton tournaments in the world was won by Prakash Padukone in 1980. He was the first Indian to do so.

  • In 1980, he was the first Indian to be ranked World No. 1. This set a new bar for Indian badminton players.

  • Padukone received the Padma Shri in 1982, making him one of the first Indian athletes to receive this distinguished honour.


6. P. Kashyap – The Silent Warrior

Parupalli Kashyap leaps mid-air during a game, aiming to smash the shuttlecock with precision. His 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medal remains a career highlight.

Parupalli Kashyap is a skilled player who is known for being tough and able to perform at the top level. In 2014, he won a gold medal in the men's singles at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. This made him a national star. But Kashyap has always done well in BWF events, even though he has had injuries throughout his career. He is one of India's best badminton players because of how hard he works and how he plans his moves. Also, Kashyap was one of the first Indian male shuttlers to get into the top 10 rankings. This made him even more famous in Indian badminton.

Category

Details

Date of Birth

September 8, 1986

Place of Birth

Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Statistics

Tournament

Year

Medal

Event

Commonwealth Games

2014

🥇 Gold

Men’s Singles

London Olympics

2012

🏅 Quarterfinals

Men’s Singles

Interesting Facts

  • Since 1980, Prakash Padukone was the last Indian male player to make it to the Olympics' semifinals. Kashyap was the first.

  • After a long injury break, Kashyap won a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in 2014.

  • Kashyap has played for India in four straight Commonwealth Games.


7. Jwala Gutta – Queen of Doubles Badminton

Jwala Gutta, positioned near the net, prepares to return a shot with her signature style. She and her partner won a bronze medal at the 2011 World Championships, making history in doubles.

In the history of Indian badminton, Jwala Gutta is one of the best pairs players. She has won many international titles, including medals at the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Championships, thanks to her great skills and strong style of play. Jwala and her partner Ashwini Ponnappa became one of the strongest doubles teams for women in badminton. The bronze medal they won at the 2011 World Championships is still a big deal in Indian badminton history.

Category

Details

Date of Birth

September 7, 1983

Place of Birth

Wardha, Maharashtra, India

Statistics

Tournament

Year

Medal

Event

World Championships

2011

🥉 Bronze

Women’s Doubles

Commonwealth Games

2010

🥈 Silver

Women’s Doubles

Interesting Facts

  • If you look at Indian women's doubles wins, Jwala Gutta has the most.

  • She was a well-known supporter of women's sports and has helped younger players improve.

  • Jwala was on the Indian team that made it to the top 10 at the World Championships.


8. Ashwini Ponnappa – A Key Player in Doubles

Ashwini Ponnappa is captured mid-swing, delivering a powerful shot during a match. Together with her partner, she has secured multiple international medals, including at the Commonwealth Games.

Ashwini Ponnappa is one of the best doubles players in the world. She is known for being very fast and having great court sense. Together with Jwala Gutta, she had a lot of success in foreign tournaments. She won a bronze medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, one of many she won there. Ashwini has also done a lot to promote badminton in India and get young people interested in playing.

Category

Details

Date of Birth

September 18, 1989

Place of Birth

Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Statistics

Tournament

Year

Medal

Event

Commonwealth Games

2010

🥉 Bronze

Women’s Doubles

BWF World Tour

Multiple

🥇 Gold

Women’s Doubles

Interesting Facts

  • The Arjuna Award was given to Ashwini Ponnappa in 2012 for her outstanding badminton skills.

  • In women's doubles, Ashwini is known for her well-planned and put shots.

  • Through her work in coaching and mentoring programs, she continues to encourage young players.


9. Sikki Reddy – A Rising Star in Women’s Doubles

Sikki Reddy smiles brightly in a close-up shot, holding her badminton racket confidently. Known for her excellent doubles coordination, she won a silver medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Sikki Reddy is another rising star on India's women's doubles circuit. Sikki and her partner Ashwini Ponnappa have won international tournaments. They have won medals at BWF tournaments and continue to dominate the women's doubles circuit. Reddy's quickness, coordination, and court knowledge make her one of India's most promising doubles players.

Category

Details

Date of Birth

January 29, 1994

Place of Birth

Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Statistics

Tournament

Year

Medal

Event

Commonwealth Games

2018

🥈 Silver

Women’s Doubles

BWF World Championships

2017

🥉 Bronze

Women’s Doubles

Interesting Facts

  • Sikki Reddy was a member of the Indian women's team that secured the gold medal at the 2016 South Asian Games.

  • She has been acknowledged for her exceptional coordination with doubles companion Ashwini Ponnappa, with whom she has won numerous international titles.

  • Sikki Reddy has also made significant strides in mixed doubles, consistently rating among the top Indian players in the event.


10. Sourabh Verma – The Steady Competitor

Sourabh Verma is seen during a match, focused on delivering a shot. He clinched the 2017 Swiss Open title, showcasing his consistency and skill.

Sourabh Verma is a consistent and dedicated competitor in the men's singles badminton division. Verma has accomplished significant accomplishments, such as the 2017 Swiss Open, and is recognised for his strong work ethic and steady temperament. He is a critical figure in the resurgence of Indian badminton in the men's singles event, frequently reaching the finals and semi-finals of significant tournaments. Verma has achieved the highest level of competition as a result of his precise movements, rapid reflexes, and aggressive approach.

Category

Details

Date of Birth

February 5, 1993

Place of Birth

Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, India

Statistics

Tournament

Year

Medal

Event

Swiss Open

2017

🥇 Gold

Men’s Singles

India Open

2018

🥉 Bronze

Men’s Singles

Interesting Facts

  • Sourabh Verma was the first player to win the Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold event in 2017.

  • He is known for his ability to outlast opponents with his fitness and stamina in long rallies.

  • Verma has consistently been a strong contender in BWF World Tour events and has shown impressive results in both national and international tournaments.


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Great Opportunities in Badminton

People who play, teach, or run a business can find a lot of exciting possibilities in badminton. It gives players a chance to do well, serve their countries, and become famous around the world. Here are some of the most important chances the sport gives you:

1. Tournaments with prizes

They can play in professional leagues like the Premier Badminton League (PBL) and important games like the Olympics and the BWF World Championships. These sites not only show off ability, but they also pay people and give them praise.

2. Advice and help with coaching

A lot of people want certified coaches, especially since more and more young people are getting into the sport. Former players can become coaches or mentors and help shape the next crop of winners.

3. Entrepreneurial Projects

People who want to start their own businesses can invest in badminton schools, put together events, or make new tools and clothes. A bigger market is also growing for tech-based tools like apps that analyse matches and fitness bands that are made just for badminton.

4. Help with funding and promotion

Players who are good at their job can work with brands to become brand champions and promote their products, while also getting paid to do so.

5. Developing from the ground up

Schools and neighbourhood groups can help young people develop their skills. Governments are also putting a lot of money into local programs to make the sport stronger.

Wrap Up:

Indian badminton has witnessed a remarkable transformation from a recreational sport to a global powerhouse, thanks to the relentless dedication and groundbreaking achievements of its stars. From the trailblazing Prakash Padukone to the formidable P.V. Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, and the rising generation of champions like Lakshya Sen, the sport continues to inspire millions. As India’s badminton legacy grows, we can only look forward to more exhilarating performances, medal-winning moments, and the emergence of new stars who will take the country’s badminton glory to even greater heights. Stay tuned, the best is yet to come!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q1:- In badminton, who has achieved the greatest level of success from India?

Ans:- Of all Indian badminton players, P.V. Sindhu has won more medals at the Olympics than any other. His medal haul includes a silver from Rio 2016 and a bronze from Tokyo 2020. At the 2019 World Championships, she became India's first ever gold medal winner.

Q2:- What did Saina Nehwal do to become a famous figure in India?

Ans:- With her 2012 Olympic bronze medal and 2015 World No. 1 ranking, Saina Nehwal made history as the first Indian woman to do it. Being one of India's most successful badminton players, she has won two gold medals at the Commonwealth Games and other trophies from the BWF.

Q3:- When did India's badminton team initially gain worldwide prominence?

Ans:- When Prakash Padukone became the first Indian to win the All England Open Badminton Championships in 1980, it was a watershed moment that paved the way for future greatness for badminton on an international level for India.

Q4:- What impact did Prakash Padukone have on badminton in India?

Ans:- Many in the Indian badminton community look up to Prakash Padukone as the sport's forefather. The groundwork for future Indian greats was laid by his historic 1980 All England Open victory and 1980 World No. 1 rating.

Q5:- As far as male badminton players in India are concerned, who is the best?

Ans:- With his aggressive style and unwavering consistency, Kidambi Srikanth has earned a reputation as one of India's top male players. He has won a plethora of trophies on a global scale, including the 2017 BWF World Super Series Finals.

Q6:- In Indian badminton, what is Lakshya Sen's unique selling point?

Ans:- Among India's rising badminton talents, Lakshya Sen stands out. One of the most exciting prospects on the global stage, he has risen quickly thanks to his aggressive play and impressive accomplishments, such as a bronze medal at the 2021 World Championships.

Q7:- What do you think the accomplishments of P.V. Sindhu mean?

Ans:- P.V. Sindhu has become a worldwide icon thanks to her many accomplishments, including as her two Olympic medals (silver in 2016 and bronze in 2020) and her historic World Championship gold in 2019. She has taken badminton in India to new levels and inspired many future players.

Q8:- What impact did Ashwini Ponnappa and Jwala Gutta have on badminton for women?

Ans:- Winning numerous international medals, including bronze at the 2011 World Championships, Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa become one of India's most successful doubles pairs. For women's doubles badminton to gain traction in India, they were important.

Q9:- What are B. Sai Praneeth's most notable badminton accomplishments?

Ans:- B. Sai Praneeth became the first male Indian player to ever win a medal at the 2019 World Championships when he won bronze. In 2016, he was also an integral part of India's Thomas Cup winning team.

Q10:- How is badminton in India right now, and what does the future hold?

Ans:- Playing under the guidance of superstars like P.V. Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth, and Lakshya Sen, badminton in India is thriving. With a fresh crop of skilled players on the rise and the sport's increasing profile in India and beyond, things are looking up for the sport's future.

 

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