NP Jayaraman
In a heartfelt announcement, India’s badminton star Saina Nehwal revealed that she and Parupalli Kashyap ‘have decided to part ways’, seven years after their marriage.
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Known for being one of the most admired couples in showbiz, their separation has taken everyone by surprise.
Credit: Instagram/@nehwalsaina
She also expressed deep gratitude for their shared journey and asked for privacy during this time.
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“Life takes us in different directions sometimes. After much thought and consideration, Kashyap Parupalli and I have decided to part ways. We're choosing peace, growth, and healing – for ourselves and each other," wrote the two-time Commonwealth Games champion.
Credit: Instagram/@nehwalsaina
"I'm grateful for the memories and wish nothing but the best moving forward. Thank you for understanding and respecting our privacy during this time," she added.
Credit: Instagram/@parupallikashyap
The news has left fans stunned, as the couple had been together since their teenage, spending much of their time jointly pursuing their badminton careers.
Credit: Instagram/@nehwalsaina
Their journey began at Hyderabad’s Pullela Gopichand Academy, where their shared passion for badminton blossomed into love.
Credit: Instagram/@nehwalsaina
After nearly 13 years of dating, Saina and Parupalli had decided to seal their relationship.
Credit: Instagram/@nehwalsaina
The couple officially became husband and wife on December 14, 2018, in an intimate wedding ceremony.
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The separation news coincides with ongoing rumors about Saina Nehwal’s possible retirement, following her battle with arthritis and a competitive absence from the court since June 2023.
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Meanwhile, Kashyap, who retired from competitive badminton in 2024, has since been coaching emerging badminton players.
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Saina and Kashyap's separation is the latest in a series of high-profile breakups in Indian sports, coming after the much-publicized splits of MC Mary Kom and Sania Mirza.
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