New Delhi, June 12 : The Badminton Association of India (BAI) on Sunday congratulated ace shuttler Saina Nehwal after she clinched her second Australian Open Super Series title by defeating China’s Sun Yu in the women’s singles event in Sydney. The BAI has announced a cash price of Rs. 10 lakh for Saina. Praising Saina’s efforts, BAI president Dr. Akhilesh Das Gupta said, “I congratulate her for this marvellous victory. This is another milestone in her career as she won second Australian Open. This win will sure motivate her for the most important Rio 2016 Olympics where she is leading the Indian Badminton contingent. On the behalf of BAI and Indian Badminton fraternity, I am congratulating her and wishing a great run in the Olympics. I also congratulate her Coach Vimal Kumar and Support Staff, who have been on their toes to bring-out the best from Saina.” “Saina has been training hard for the last many months and has showed impressive performance in all BWF tournaments. This win in Sydney showcases her preparation for the Rio 2016 Olympics and her readiness for the big matches. I am confident that Saina will continue this form and will bring another Olympic medal for the country,” he added. After going down in the first-game, seventh-seed Saina rebounded strongly to register a 11-21, 21-14, 21-19 triumph over her Chinese compatriot in the grueling summit showdown that lasted one hour and 11 minutes. With her maiden title of the season, Saina has also improved her head-to-head record with Sun Yu to 6-1. The victory in Sydney improves Saina’s chances of a second consecutive podium finish at the upcoming Olympics 2016.
