Saina Nehwal Net Worth: India's Badminton Star's Salary, Endorsements, Total Earnings after Retirement

Indian badminton icon Saina Nehwal has officially confirmed her retirement from competitive badminton, citing a chronic knee condition that has sidelined her for the past two years.

The 35-year-old former world No. 1, who last competed at the 2023 Singapore Open, revealed in a recent podcast that her body could no longer handle the physical demands of elite sport.

"I thought it's enough. I can't push it anymore," Nehwal said, explaining that severe knee degeneration made high-intensity training impossible.

A Trailblazing Career

Nehwal's career is a trailblazing saga in Indian sports. She became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in badminton, securing bronze at the 2012 London Games.

Her accolades include three Commonwealth Games gold medals, two Asian Games bronzes,

and victories at prestigious events like the Indonesia Open and Australian Open.

Nehwal reached the pinnacle as world No. 1 in 2015 and inspired a generation of shuttlers, including PV Sindhu. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasized entering and exiting the sport on her terms, without a formal announcement initially needed.

"If you're not capable of playing anymore, that's it. It's fine," she added.

The Badminton Association of India and fans worldwide have paid tribute to her legacy, with many calling her a pioneer who elevated badminton's status in India. Nehwal's retirement marks the end of an era, but her impact endures.

Saina Nehwal Net Worth

Beyond her sporting achievements, Saina Nehwal has amassed significant wealth through endorsements, prize money, and investments. As of 2026, her net worth is estimated at around Rs 36-45 crore (approximately $4.3-5.4 million), making her one of India's richest female athletes.

Her annual income hovers between Rs 4-5 crore, derived primarily from brand deals with companies like Yonex and BPCL, alongside tournament earnings.

At her peak in 2018, Nehwal earned Rs 16.54 crore, though figures dipped to Rs 3 crore in 2019 amid injuries. By 2022, her yearly income rebounded to over Rs 5 crore, with monthly earnings of Rs 35-40 lakh. Assets include a luxurious Rs 4-5 crore home in Hyderabad, a Rs 2 crore Mercedes, and other high-end vehicles. Nehwal's financial savvy extends to private investments, solidifying her status among the top-earning badminton players globally.