Pullela Gopichand: The Maestro Behind India's Badminton Renaissance

Pullela Gopichand, a former All England champion and India's Chief Badminton Coach, reflects on his transformative journey from a young athlete to a mentor for India's top shuttlers. Overcoming early obstacles, Gopichand credits diverse coaching influences for shaping his success and India's rise in international badminton.

Pullela Gopichand, India's Chief Badminton Coach and former All England champion, has been instrumental in revolutionizing the country's badminton scene. In a conversation with ANI, Gopichand shared his journey from a budding player to a mentor shaping India's leading shuttlers' careers.

Gopichand's initial steps into badminton were fortuitous. Growing up in Hyderabad in 1985, he was captivated by cricket following India's 1983 World Cup win. However, cricketing prospects dimmed due to broken windowpanes, leading his mother to explore alternate sports. Despite failed attempts with cricket and tennis, an opening at a badminton court became his gateway into the sport.

Juggling academics and athletics, Gopichand's dedication bore fruit with a Junior Nationals win in 1991 after a consistent regime that started at dawn. Early setbacks, including an ACL injury, couldn't dampen his passion, bolstered by coaches like Hamid Hussain and Prakash Padukone, whose mentorship profoundly impacted his career. Now, under his guidance, India has emerged as a strong contender in world badminton.

(With inputs from agencies.)