Pullela Gopichand Right About Uncertainty
When Gopichand bhaisahab speaks, people listen—whether it’s the sports fraternity, the general public, or even the global audience. Initially, I thought his recent remarks might have been misinterpreted. However, I cannot disagree with his statement about the uncertainty of an athlete’s future and the lack of employment stability after sports.
As Gopichand rightly pointed out, there are no guarantees—no certainty of success or career security. But isn’t that true for every profession, including life itself? Success in sports, like in life, is never guaranteed.
It depends on how you start, the methodology you adopt, your grit, determination, dedication, hard work, and resilience.
There may be setbacks in any career, but athletes have a unique advantage—sports teach us not just how to win but also how to accept defeat and plan a comeback. We learn that we won’t always be winners, but we can always adapt, learn, and rise again.
The concerns Gopichand raised regarding leaves for sportspersons and appropriate job opportunities for national and international medalists are legitimate.
However, his message may not have reached everyone in India in the same way, leading to misinterpretations.
Given his stature—as Vice President of BAI, Chief Coach of the Indian Team, Secretary of a State Association, and a key member of important committees—he is heard at all levels.
Since he holds significant positions, I feel he can directly contribute by writing to the concerned authorities and working towards framing a structured policy rather than turning it into a media-driven issue, which more creates controversy and misunderstanding.
What About Disabled Athletes?
If able-bodied athletes face uncertainty, what about children with disabilities? Should their parents stop dreaming altogether?
In para-sports, perspectives have transformed because of the 1,200+ medals won by Indian para-athletes. We speak about grassroots to greatness, but when Gopichand makes such a statement, it shifts the conversation since he is a legend and being heard loudly in all corners.
I was never an elite player myself. My last national tournament was in 1998, and my playing career ended due to four knee surgeries and the Medical Boards assessed my Partial Disability as 60%.
However, it was only my “never say die” attitude, learned through sports that kept me going and fueled my passion for promoting sports among differently-abled athletes.
There was a time when people mocked me for my close association with hearing-impaired and disabled athletes, especially when I communicated with them in sign language. At that time, no one imagined that Para sports would one day be the Part of Paralympics.
Hence at this juncture of life, I can proudly say that through perseverance and passion, which I learned from sports, I went on to earn the Padma Shri and the Dronacharya Award.
Now, after more than two decades of working to promote para-sports, I have witnessed a remarkable shift in how society perceives sports including sports for Disabled.
Gopichand Promoted His Own Daughter
As sports promoters, it is our moral duty to encourage and support the next generation. Gopichand promoted his daughter, and she is performing exceptionally well—why shouldn’t he? If he believes in the power of sports, it’s only natural that he wants his own child to pursue it. How, then, can others be discouraged from doing the same?
As a parent, before putting my child into sports, I would use my wisdom as parent and evaluate the available resources, opportunities, and long-term prospects. This is where we need to focus: ensuring better infrastructure and career pathways for young athletes.
PV Sindhu Has Earned Respect Beyond Sports
The notion that elite athletes need to address bureaucrats as ‘Sir’ has sparked discussions. In my view, in Indian culture, respect is a fundamental value, unlike in Western corporate settings where officials address each other by name, irrespective of their designations.
Hence, there is nothing wrong with athletes addressing their superiors as “Sir” or “Madam.” It is simply a reflection of our cultural norms, acknowledging position, achievements, and age.
For example, PV Sindhu is a testament to how sports create a lasting impact. Today, when she walks into an event, even junior IAS officers address her as ‘Madam’—because her achievements are immortal.
India is investing heavily in sports, and the ecosystem is evolving. We must ensure that this momentum continues—so that every athlete, regardless of their background, finds opportunities and respect in society.
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