A lot has changed in Indian badminton after his win in 1980

The only player, after whose win the Indian badminton got the recognition as a major world leader in the sport is Prakash Padukone. He is the first Indian player who brought All England trophy to India in 1980. Almost after 25 years, Padukone went to All England Open as the chief guest in March 2017.

In the finals at London’s Wembley Arena, Padukone defeated Liem Swie King of Indonesia. It was an easy going match for Padukone as he thrashed his opponent by 15-3, 15-10. Padukone was 3rd seed after King and Morten Frost Hansen of Denmark and still believes it was his deception that forced King on the back-foot and played an influential role in the victory.

While the event moved to Birmingham in 1994, he said that he looked forward to meeting old friends after decades. He said, “I have never played at this venue in Birmingham and have seen only once in 2003 when I went to cover The World Championship for a newspaper.”

“My 1980 victory would undoubtedly go down as a historical event in Indian badminton," said Padukone. "I was delighted that I was able to win this prestigious event despite many odds. More than my personal triumph, I was happy that Indian badminton got the recognition as a major world leader in the sport," said the soft-spoken 61-year-old.

"It was difficult to predict the future for Indian badminton at that time because of funding related issues. I knew for sure that there was a lot of talent even during that time but the players never got the right opportunities to exhibit the talent," he said.

"There is definitely a sea change in the funds available for the youngsters today which is one of the reasons for our players doing so well on the international circuit. It is satisfying to see the new crop of boys and girls emerging on the Indian badminton horizon," he added.

If we compare bygone scenarios with the present, it was difficult to predict the future for the Indian badminton because of funding issues. There were lot of talented players but they didn’t get the proper opportunity to showcase their talent in badminton.