“Where Is the Recognition?” – Star Shuttler Satwik Expresses Pain

Indian star doubles shuttler Satwiksairaj Rankireddy expressed deep disappointment over the lack of recognition for badminton players despite winning medals for the country. Speaking after returning from the Thomas Cup Finals held in Denmark, where India secured a bronze medal, Satwik said not even a single fan came to the airport to welcome the team. He emotionally stated that he would not encourage his future children to choose badminton as a career if the sport continues to receive such little recognition.

Satwik revealed that after a seven-hour journey from Germany to Hyderabad, no one at the airport even recognized the players despite them wearing Thomas Cup jerseys and medals around their necks. He mentioned that fellow players H. S. Prannoy, Kidambi Srikanth, and Dhruv Kapila quietly booked cabs and left the airport individually. He expressed sadness that public conversations were focused only on IPL and elections, while achievements in badminton continued to go unnoticed.