Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal says India can be called a “sporting nation” only if it ranks among the top countries in medals. She links this to how sporting success is measured internationally and argues that achieving higher medal tallies reflects deeper support for athletes.
Nehwal also points to progress in women’s sports over the past decade, saying female athletes have increasingly realised their potential. At the same time, she calls for improvements beyond participation, including stronger funding and sponsorship, better coaching, physiotherapy, and mental health support. She argues that athletes should have greater financial security to remain in sport and build long-term careers.
The outlets agree on the core message: Nehwal highlights both the positive change in women’s participation and performance and the need for systemic backing so Indian athletes can translate potential into sustained, higher-level results at major competitions.
