“PV Sindhu recalls fierce rivalry and lasting bond as Olympic champion Marin announces retirement”
Punjab Newsline,Sports :
Following the retirement announcement of Spanish badminton legend Carolina Marin, Indian star shuttler PV Sindhu paid a heartfelt tribute, recalling their intense on-court rivalry and the strong friendship that developed over the years.
The Rio Olympic gold medallist and three-time world champion Marin announced her retirement from professional badminton on Thursday, citing ongoing struggles with the aftereffects of a serious injury sustained during Paris 2024.
Marin’s later years in the sport were heavily impacted by recurring knee injuries, which forced her to withdraw from defending her Olympic title and from the 2021 World Championships. Despite these setbacks, she made a remarkable comeback, reaching another World Championship final and showing strong form heading into the Paris Olympics.
Sindhu shared that some rivals become an inseparable part of one’s journey, and Marin was certainly one of them. She recalled their first meeting as teenagers in the Maldives and how it marked the beginning of many memorable battles on court.
Their 2016 Olympic final remains one of the most iconic matches in badminton history, showcasing extraordinary intensity and skill. The rivalry also saw its share of heated moments, including a notable on-court exchange during the 2023 Denmark Open semifinal.
Despite the fierce competition, Sindhu emphasized that mutual respect and friendship defined their relationship off the court. She wished Marin happiness in her retirement, adding that the badminton world will deeply miss her presence.