No Support From Brands Despite Ranking No. 7: Prannoy HS On Challenges By Indian Shuttlers

Prannoy HS pointed out how such lack of support is demoralising youngsters from taking up badminton as a career option in sports.

Star badminton player Prannoy HS took to LinkedIn to 'shed light on an important topic' as he opened up on the challenges he himself and his peers face when it comes to bagging endorsements from corporates and brands. Prannoy, in a lengthy post on LinkedIn, explained how athletes from other sports, including badminton, struggle to attract brands and corporates unless they make a mark at the Olympics and how the lion's share is taken by cricketers, at least in India. There's no doubt that cricket as a sport enjoys a diehard fan base all over the world but especially in India, fans treat cricket as a religion and cricketers as gods.

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"As an athlete who has dedicated his life to the sport, I feel privileged to have achieved a global ranking of #7 in badminton. However, it is disheartening to admit that I continue to struggle when it comes to attracting brands to support my journey. This situation raises an important question: Is this the right path for Indian badminton?" wrote Prannoy on LinkedIn.

The veteran pointed out how such lack of support is demoralising youngsters from taking up badminton as a career option in sports.

"The lack of support sends a message of apprehension, making it harder for the next generation to take up the sport with the confidence that they will receive the necessary backing," he wrote.

Prannoy said despite attaining a historic win in the Thomas Cup 2023 he failed to get the due recognition, adding that only those badminton players who make it to the Olympics get that recognition while others are simply ignored.

"Does change in perception and support only come when an Olympic medal is won? While the Olympics undoubtedly serve as a pinnacle of sporting excellence, the journey leading up to the Games is equally important. It is during this period that support is crucial, as it empowers athletes to prepare at their best and showcase their talent on the global stage," ruminated Prannoy.