Ace Indian badminton player Saina Nehwal announced on Sunday, July 13, that she and husband Parupalli Kashyap have decided to go their separate ways after nearly seven years of marriage. The Olympian shared the news on Instagram through a heartfelt post, signalling the end of a relationship that began long before their wedding in 2018.

“Sometimes life leads us down different paths. After considerable reflection, Kashyap and I have mutually decided to part ways. We’re choosing peace and personal growth as we move forward individually. I’m thankful for the journey we’ve shared and hope for the best in the days ahead. We request privacy and understanding at this time,” Saina wrote in her post.

Kashyap has not yet issued a public statement on the separation.

The two athletes rose through the ranks of Indian badminton together at the Pullela Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad. While Saina made history as a trailblazer in Indian women’s badminton—earning an Olympic bronze medal and reaching the World No. 1 spot—Kashyap made his mark by clinching a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games and delivering strong international performances.

Their personal bond extended into their professional lives. After retiring from active competition, Kashyap turned to coaching and began mentoring Saina in the latter phase of her career. His transition from training partner to coach was widely seen as a testament to their deep connection.

One of their notable professional highlights came in 2019 when Saina upset PV Sindhu during the National Championships—an achievement many credited in part to Kashyap's guidance.

Despite a string of injuries following the 2016 season, Saina remained committed to her comeback, with Kashyap often seen courtside providing strategic input and emotional support. Together, they tried to script a late-career resurgence.

Saina’s last competitive appearance was in June 2023, though she has not yet made an official retirement announcement.

Their decision to separate marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian sports, where their story had stood out not just for their on-court successes, but for their enduring partnership off it.