New Delhi, Aug 27 (UNI) Indian badminton star HS Prannoy has announced an indefinite hiatus from upcoming tournaments to expedite his recovery from the lingering effects of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral disease. The 32-year-old shuttler, who was diagnosed just before the Paris 2024 Olympics, has been struggling to regain his peak form since the illness.
Prannoy made his Olympic debut in Paris, advancing to the Round of 16 in the men’s singles event before being knocked out by compatriot Lakshya Sen in straight games. Despite recovering in time for the Olympics, the aftereffects of chikungunya have continued to hamper his performance, forcing him to withdraw from the Japan Open 2024 and Korea Open 2024.
In a statement shared on social media, Prannoy expressed his gratitude to fans and emphasized the importance of focusing on his health. “After careful consideration with my team, I’ve decided to withdraw from some of the upcoming tournaments to focus on recovery. Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. I’ll be back stronger,” Prannoy stated, without specifying a timeline for his return to competitive play.
The Kerala-based shuttler has also faced a series of physical setbacks, including a stomach disorder and back injury, in the lead-up to the Olympics. His decision to take a break comes at a crucial time as he aims to fully recover and reclaim the form that made him one of India’s top badminton players in recent years.
Since 2022, Prannoy has been a standout performer on the international badminton circuit. He famously defeated two-time Olympic gold medallist Viktor Axelsen in the quarterfinals of the World Championships, securing a bronze medal in Copenhagen last year. At the Asian Games 2023, Prannoy clinched a bronze medal in the men’s singles event and contributed to India’s silver-medal finish in the team event. He was also a key member of the Indian men’s team that won the historic Thomas Cup in 2022.
Meanwhile, Commonwealth Games champion Lakshya Sen will also be absent from the Japan Open this week. Sen is currently in Salzburg, Austria, undergoing a physical assessment to enhance his performance in upcoming BWF tournaments. He plans to focus on his fitness in Austria before returning to India.
