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Ace Indian women's shuttler Saina Nehwal wrote a new chapter in badminton history when she won the Indonesian Open Super Series in Jakarta on Sunday.
The 19-year-old World junior champion beat China's world No 3 Wang Lin 12-21, 21-18, 21-9 to become the first Indian to win a Super Series event.
"This is great. I never expected to win," said the world No 8 after her triumph over the world No 3, who had only last week beaten the Indian in the Singapore Super Series."
"It couldn't have been better. I am elated, excited and shocked as well," added the Hyderabad-based girl, who had made it to the Olympics singles quarter-finals in Beijing last year.
Commenting on Saina's feat, former all-England champion and national coach Pullela Gopichand said, "Saina's achievement is huge not just for Indian badminton but Indian sport also.
"In terms of quality, the Indonesian event is as good as the all-England, the Olympics or the World championships with eight of the world's top 10 figuring in it."
Certainly! Saina's triumph is reward for hard work and a moment to cherish for Indian sport.
Join us in congratulating the champion on her latest conquest.