Jwala Gutta blasts Badminton Association of India (BAI)

Indian shutler Jwala Gutta quesioned the BAI’s policy to make it mandatory for all international players to participate in the national meet. The doubles star player is competing at the ongoing National Badminton Championships.

Known for her blunt remarks, the shuttler questioned why only specific players were being targeted to participate in this championship. Saina Nehwal, India’s top singles player has not played in the nationals since 2008, and withdrew from this year’s event, citing health problems.

“Nationals is something the system tries to give important to but at the same time also not giving importance. Last year the association made a major announcement that playing in the national was mandatory, so I am here now but a lot of players are not there,” Jwala said.

“I understand if Saina is not able to play. I have been at her place. You cannot play so many tournaments, but then why make such a rule? Why target only specific players who are not following that and let others go? That is not right.”

“I feel players like Saina, me and Ashwini (Ponnappa) should be given a special consideration because we have played and performed a lot. So for us the nationals, does not matter. I have won national championships 13 times. In spite of that, I am still being targeted and integrity questioned. If you have made it mandatory to participate, then make sure everyone participates.

We know what Saina’s level is, I will be a fool to question that, but then why are my achievements and performance questioned? Ashwini, me, Saina together have changed the way people look at badminton,” said Jwala.

The doubles star is set to open an academy in Hyderabad next year.