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    Saina Nehwal

    Saina Nehwal

    Awards & Honours

    9

    Awards Won

    4

    Honours

    3

    Records

    Saina Nehwal's achievements stand as a testament to her extraordinary career. She is the only Indian to have medaled at the Olympics, World Championships, and World Junior Championships, a feat that underscores her consistency across every major stage. Her ascent to world No. 1 in 2015 was a historic moment for Indian badminton, and her two Commonwealth golds highlight her dominance in multi-sport events.Beyond the medals, Nehwal's impact on Indian sports is immeasurable. She inspired a generation of young players, including PV Sindhu, and her 2008 Taipei Open victory remained a benchmark for nearly two decades. Her national honours, including the Padma Bhushan and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, reflect the esteem in which she is held across the country.

    Awards

    Honours & Distinctions

    Padma Bhushan

    Government of India·2016

    India's third-highest civilian honour, awarded for her sporting achievements.

    Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna

    Government of India·2010

    India's highest sporting honour, recognizing her outstanding performance.

    Arjuna Award

    Government of India·2009

    Awarded for excellence in badminton.

    ICAR Salute

    Indian Council of Agricultural Research·2026

    Formally saluted for her Olympic bronze medal achievement.

    Records & Feats

    First Indian to win an Olympic medal in badminton

    Historic First·2012

    Won bronze at the 2012 London Olympics, a historic first for India.

    First Indian woman to reach world No. 1

    Career Milestone·2015

    Achieved the top ranking in 2015, becoming the first Indian female to do so.

    Only Indian to medal in all major BWF individual events

    Career Milestone·2015

    Has medaled at the Olympics, World Championships, and World Junior Championships.