PV Sindhu's title-winning performance at the Hylo Open brought cheer to Indian badminton, but the celebrations have come amid an ongoing controversy over the funding
of Indian shuttlers' European tour. Recent reports revealed that several Indian players were left struggling to finance their participation in tournaments after funding support was not released on time, with some even having to compete without their coaches.
The issue came to light just days before the Arctic Open in Finland, leaving the shuttlers with little time to make alternative arrangements. While the Sports Authority of India (SAI) attributed the delay to the Badminton Association of India's (BAI) failure to submit the required paperwork within the stipulated timeline, Sindhu's father, PV Ramana, has described the episode as a case of miscommunication.
PV Ramana Calls Funding Row a 'Miscommunication'
Speaking about the funding controversy, PV Ramana said that the family was aware that Sindhu would have to bear the expenses of her European tour. However, he believes the situation arose because of a delay in the administrative process rather than a deliberate decision to withdraw support.
"We were aware of the fact that she had to fund her own journey. However, it was just a miscommunication on the part of the association. It is maybe after the conclusion of the Asian Games that the association got busy and there was a delay in the required paperwork," PV Ramana said.
He also maintained that SAI has consistently supported Indian shuttlers and described the incident as an isolated one. According to him, the funding support is expected to continue for the players' upcoming international tours.
Ramana also expressed happiness over Sindhu's performance at the Hylo Open, crediting the support staff for helping her return to winning ways after her foot injury. "I am very happy at the way she has played in the Hylo Open, thanks to the support of the physios, coaches and others that she managed to win the title, especially coming up after the foot injury," he said.
PV Sindhu Responds to Funding Debate on Social Media
The funding controversy also spilled over onto social media, with Sindhu responding to a post by a senior journalist. The two-time Olympic medallist argued that professional badminton involves significant expenses, including travel, coaching, physiotherapy, fitness training and other support services.
In her response, Sindhu highlighted the disparity between prize money in different sports, comparing the earnings of tennis players at Wimbledon with those available to badminton players at major tournaments.
"Mr. Kannan, with all due respect, I don't think your tweet fully captures the reality of professional badminton.
"A first-round exit at Wimbledon earns £80,000. Winning the China Open, one of badminton's richest tournaments, earns $140,000. Lose in the first round? Just $2,000.
"Yet our expenses are largely similar. Travel, coaches, physios, trainers and support teams. I've had long conversations with Rohan Bopanna about this very disparity. "
Sindhu acknowledged that established athletes should work towards becoming financially independent and said she had been fortunate to receive support from sponsors. However, she pointed out that not every player enjoys the same financial backing.
She also underlined the importance of organisations such as Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ), which support athletes in their pursuit of international success.
Sindhu Raises Concerns About Young Shuttlers
Going beyond her own experience, Sindhu stressed that the bigger concern was the impact of funding disruptions on younger players trying to establish themselves on the international circuit.
She pointed out that, as highlighted in a report by The Indian Express, some young Indian shuttlers had to compete without coaches, while others were forced to withdraw from tournaments.
"More importantly, if you read Mihir's article in full, you'll see that younger players had to compete without coaches, while several withdrew from tournaments. "
"I can find ways to fund my tour. But what about the 18-year-old chasing her dreams, hoping to become the next Sindhu or Lakshya?" Sindhu also acknowledged the contribution of the Government of India and SAI, stating that their support has played an important role in the development of Indian sport.
"And I must acknowledge the tremendous support the Government of India and SAI have extended to athletes like us over the years. Their contribution to Indian sport cannot be understated. "
Concluding her response, Sindhu called for accountability while emphasising that financial assistance to athletes should be viewed as an investment in the country's sporting future.
"Accountability is absolutely necessary. But supporting athletes isn't bleeding the system. It's investing in India's sporting future. And we shouldn't lose sight of that. "
While Sindhu has managed to overcome the financial challenge and return to winning ways, the episode has raised wider questions about funding procedures and the support available to India's emerging badminton players. For young shuttlers hoping to make their mark internationally, timely financial assistance can be just as important as their performances on the court.
