“It’s tough when your body finally gives up, but that is the life of a sportsperson,” said the badminton ace Saina Nehwal, as quoted in the Gulf News, a few days ago, at the time of announcing her decision to retire from the sport that she glorified so much, even as she earned milestones of achievements.

Champions may be born or made, but finally, a time comes when there is no escape from health, fitness, or injury issues that hasten the moment to leave the sport behind. As a former chief national junior coach, Sanjiv Sachdeva said, few players put in as much effort into their training and playing schedule as Saina used to in her drive for excellence. But, then in the last two years, knee issues had kept her away from the sport and with medical opinion finally not in her favour, the great lady decided to take a bow.

But then there are champions who also thrive on hard work and careful planning to somehow, it would seem, extend their great journey. We have seen how cricketing great Virat Kohli, two years senior to Saina, at 37, continues to sparkle, which is what his adoring fans want, but experts know the kind of sacrifice he is going through to remain the top-notch player........

© Mathrubhumi English