Saina retires hurt, but India beat Spain in Uber Cup
NEW DELHI: India managed to overcome Spain 3-2 in their opening Uber Cup fixture despite team spearhead Saina Nehwal retiring midway through her match after losing a closely fought first game in Aarhus, Denmark, on Sunday.
Returning to the circuit for the first time since March, Saina looked rusty with restricted movement but showed glimpses of her past peak. She was trailing 12-16, fought back to lead 19-16 and had a game point too at 20-19 when her opponent, world No.58 Clara Azurmendi capitalised on Saina’s errors to win the first game 22-20. In less than two minutes, Saina spoke to the umpire and retired.
“There was a certain catch in my groin. I was surprised at how it happened. I was trying to get back my rhythm but I couldn’t and had to give it up because it was hurting when I was taking long lunges,” Saina was quoted as saying by Olympics.com.
However, Malvika Bansod and Aditi Bhatt along with the doubles combine of Tanisha Crasto and Rutaparna Panda won their contests in straight games to give India a winning start.
Before the match, Saina dismissed any talk of retirement. “When I am earning so much with the game why should I just give it up like that?,” Saina told Badminton Europe on Saturday.
The 31-year-old cited the example of Roger Federer who is still playing at 40. “Till I am happy with the sport I will continue. When I feel it is enough, my body is not helping me, I am not able to control the injuries then it is time. But at the moment I am enjoying the trips, I’m enjoying coming out to see matches. If I win something now it will be great for me.”