Image: The Hindu
Devika Sihag aims for the top-30 in badminton rankings. Discover her inspiring journey from Panchkula to international success and her next steps.
GlipzoDevika Sihag, a promising young talent in Indian badminton, is setting her sights on becoming one of the top players in the world. After impressive performances in recent tournaments, including a significant win at a BWF Super 300 event in Thailand and a title in Azerbaijan, Sihag is on a fast track to prominence. With her next competition at the Orleans Masters in France starting on March 17, 2026, the badminton world is eager to see how she continues to build on her success.
Devika's journey began on the recreational courts of Panchkula, Haryana, where she started playing badminton as a casual activity encouraged by her father. Initially, it was just a fun evening hobby for her and her younger brother, but as Devika displayed her talent by excelling at both State and National levels, her family recognized her potential for a professional career in the sport.
At just 14 years old, Devika was advised by her coach to move to Bengaluru for a more rigorous training regimen. This pivotal decision required her to leave home, a transition that was challenging at first. "The first two weeks were very difficult; I was homesick," Devika recalled. However, she adapted quickly, and her dedication to badminton began to flourish.
Devika's journey has not come without its challenges. Initially, her father was hesitant about her move to Bengaluru, concerned about balancing her studies with her rigorous training. However, her mother played a crucial role in convincing him of the importance of this opportunity. Now, as she approaches the completion of her Bachelor's degree in Sports Management from Chitkara University, Devika manages her time effectively, often studying independently to keep her academic pursuits on track.
"Now, I have almost finished my studies," she mentioned, highlighting her commitment to both education and sports.
Under the guidance of Irwansyah Adi Pratama, Devika is training in one of India’s premier badminton environments, the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy. Her previous coaches, including Rohit Mandhan and Umendra Rana, laid the foundation for her skills, but it’s her current coach who is helping elevate her game further. Devika expresses her gratitude to her team, including support from organizations like Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ) and the Haryana Badminton Association (HBA).
Training alongside seasoned players like P.V. Sindhu has immensely influenced her work ethic. "I watch her; she is very disciplined and does her work very meticulously. I have learned many things from her," Devika noted, emphasizing the importance of learning from the best.
Despite her height of 5’9”, which generally provides advantages in badminton, Devika faces unique challenges, particularly with knee issues common among tall athletes. These physical struggles have forced her to be more mindful of her training and recovery routines. Nevertheless, her determination to succeed remains unshaken as she continues to push through the physical demands of the sport.
Devika attributes her recent successes to significant tactical shifts and improvements in her mental resilience. Competing against seasoned players has helped her adapt her game and develop a stronger competitive mindset. As she prepares for upcoming matches, she is focused on building a robust strategy that leverages her strengths while also addressing areas in need of improvement.
"I want to be in the top-30 worldwide," Devika stated, setting a clear goal for her future. Her aspirations reflect a growing trend in Indian badminton, where young athletes are increasingly competing on the global stage.
As Devika gears up for her next competition in France, the badminton community is watching closely. Her trajectory suggests that she could become a significant player in the international circuit, especially with the support of her training environment and her commitment to continuous improvement.
In conclusion, Devika Sihag represents the promising future of Indian badminton. With her sights set on the top echelons of the sport, the coming months are sure to be pivotal in shaping her career. Her journey not only inspires young athletes but also highlights the evolving landscape of badminton in India, where talent and hard work are paving the way for greatness.
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