New Delhi, India, February 11, 2020: India’s chief national badminton coach Pullela Gopichand has been given an honourable mention by the International Olympic Committee at the 2019 Coaches Lifetime Achievement Awards.
Gopichand received the prestigious achievement for the male category of the awards. The legendary coach is the first Indian to receive this honour.
“The panel wishes to recognise his efforts in the development of badminton in India, his efforts in supporting athletes across sports and his contribution to the Olympic Movement,” the IOC said in a statement.
Gopichand told the Times of India: “I am happy with this recognition, which I see as a recognition for all Indian coaches. I am grateful for the Government of India, the sports ministry, badminton association and the Indian Olympic Association. I hope this will encourage our coaches to do even better. I am also sure this international recognition will motivate me to do better.”
Gopichand, who won the All England Badminton Championships in 2001, is synonymous with badminton in India. The 46-year-old coach has been instrumental in shaping the careers of players like Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu who both went on to win Olympic medals.
