Saina, Srikanth clinch Indian Open title

It turned out to be a Super Sunday for Indian badminton. In a first for home players, Saina Nehwal and Kidambi Srikanth won the women’s and men’s singles titles at the Yonex Sunrise India Open Super Series to wrap up a memorable evening for the thousands who flocked at the Siri Fort Sports Complex.

Never before had Indians even reached the finals of the event. However, Saina, haunted by early exits in the tournament, beat former world champion Ratchanok Intanon of Thailand 21-16, 21-14.

Srikanth followed suit by overcoming the challenge of six-foot-five Dane Viktor Axelsen 18-21, 21-13, 21-12 to turn over a new leaf.

It had been an unforgettable run for Saina. She not only achieved her long-standing dream of becoming World No 1 on Saturday, but also clinched the title whose pursuit had always ended in heartbreak for her. Not surprisingly, she called it the best phase of her life.

“I feel a big burden has been lifted off my head. The last four years, I was struggling, losing in pre-quarters or quarters, this is the first time I have reached the finals here, and won it. So, too many surprises for me in this tournament, being the World No 1, winning the title. I am very proud of myself. Never thought this day would come after so much struggle,” said Saina.

Under Saina’s towering presence, Srikanth had been quietly and consistently rising up the rankings in the men’s singles. The talent of the 22-year-old from Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, was never in doubt, and he attracted the spotlight when he tamed the great Chinese Lin Dan in his own backyard to win the China Open in November last year. Dan called Srikanth the most complete player of the current generation.

Like Saina, Srikanth, too, aspires to be the World No 1.  It may not take him long, considering that he is already No 4 and is expected to move up a rung after this win.
“The World No 1 ranking has always been on my mind. It will be good to see myself on top of the world,” said Srikanth.