Proud moment for India, #SainaNehwal creates history, first #Indianwoman #shuttler to become #worldNo.1

New Delhi: Ace shuttler Saina N on Saturday created history by becoming the first Indian woman to be ranked World No.1.  Spain’s Carolina Marin’s loss to Ratchanok Intanon in the Indian Open Super Series semi-final provided an opportunity for Saina to overtake China’s Li Xuerui to become the highest ranked player in the world.

The race for the the No.1 ranking in women’s singles entered its home stretch on Friday at the $275,000 India Open Super Series with Saina and reigning World Champion Carolina Marin both making the semifinals.

Now, Saina will face Yui Hashimoto of Japan in the semi-final of the tournament.  Earlier in the day, Nehwal had said she will be ranked World No.1 if this is in her destiny.

I want to be the best. It’s not about the ranking, it’s about being consistent. Li Xuerui is injured. You can’t ignore the fact that she’s the best player in the world,” said the 25-year-old.

“But she’s been injured over the last few months. When she comes back she will be strong. The Chinese will come back and they will be ready for us,” she had said.