Taufik Hidayat announces retirement after serving Indonesia for 17 years – Badminton News
Indonesia’s one of the all time best shuttlers, Taufik Hidayat, announced his retirement during Indonesia Open Premier Super Series after losing to India’s B. Sai Praneeth. The Indonesian legend has been representing his country
for 17 years.
The 31-year-old Taufik, who won the Men’s Singles gold medal in 2004 Olympic Games and also became World Champion in 2005, was one of the most talented and stylish players all over the world. His countless fans all over the world
will continue missing this legendary shuttler for a long time.
During Indonesia Open 2013, Taufik announced his official retirement and bid farewell to his home fans in Jakarta on Sunday. He, as a professional player, also presented his resignation to Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI).
He said, "After 25 years of playing badminton, in which 17 years as professional players in national and international tournaments, this time is probably the best time for me to retire. This is an emotional moment for me. Thanks
for badminton sport stakeholders that have been backing me up along this time."
At this occasion, Taufik also gifted his racket to a young Indonesian player showing his desire that he wants youngsters to replace him at international stage.
The PBSI chairman Gita Wirjawan thanked Taufik on this occasion.
He said, "On the behalf of PBSI and people of Indonesia I thank you for your dedication and contribution. There is no such a former champion. Once a champion always a champion."
The fans will not see Taufik in action again in the arena but they will be able to see many other shuttlers trained by this Indonesian legend. He has built his badminton academy named Taufik Hidayat Arena that has all facilities
for professional players. He has said on many occasions that he will be focusing on his academy where local and international players will train.
In the presence of many all time great shuttlers, Taufik has enjoyed a complete professional life. He has also built good relations with all players of his batch including Malaysia’s Lee Chong Wei, Denmark’s Peter Hoeg Gade, Korea’s
Lee Hyun Il and China’s Lin Dan.
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