PV Sindhu vows to represent 'voices of athletes' after assuming governance role as BWF Council Member

Indian badminton star PV Sindhu has vowed to "represent the voices of athletes" after making her first appearance as a voting member of the Badminton World Federation Council. The two-time Olympic medallist, among the most decorated players in badminton history, had been granted voting powers on the BWF Council after her appointment as Chair of the BWF Athletes' Commission in December.

And on Saturday, Sindhu made her maiden appearance before the global badminton membership during the BWF Annual General meeting in Horsens, Denmark – where the governing body had passed the landmark decision to alter the scoring system.

"It is a true honour and privilege to take on this responsibility within the Badminton World Federation and to represent the voices of athletes from around the world," Sindhu was quoted as saying in an official release.

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"Badminton has given me so much, and I feel deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the sport in this capacity.

"I am especially grateful to BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul for her warmth and encouragement, and I look forward to working closely with the Council and the wider BWF community as we continue to strengthen and grow this wonderful sport across the world," the 30-year-old added.

BWF welcomes 'outstanding role model representing voice of athletes'

BWF president Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul hailed Sindhu's "skill, grace and spirit on the court" while welcoming the star shuttler into the Council.

"Over many years, P. V. Sindhu has demonstrated exceptional skill, grace and spirit on the court, and it is wonderful to now have such an outstanding role model representing the voice of our athletes," Leeswadtrakul was quoted as saying in the release.

The BWF Council is responsible for the strategic direction and governance of badminton at a global level. And Sindhu's inclusion into the heart of global badminton leadership is rare for an active player still competing at the highest level of the sport.

Sindhu, who had won silver and bronze at the 2016 and 2020 Olympics respectively as well as gold at the 2019 World Championships, is expected to bring the perspective and experiences of elite athletes while participating in discussions and decisions on matters that shape the future of the sport.

Sindhu is currently participating in the Uber Cup, which is taking place simultaneously alongside the Thomas Cup in Horsens, and had pulled off two wins in as many hours in their 2-3 defeat against hosts Denmark on Friday.