HS Prannoy, the esteemed Indian badminton player, has officially announced his decision to take an indefinite break from participating in upcoming tournaments. This decision comes as he seeks to prioritize his recovery from the lingering effects of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral illness from which he has been suffering.

Prannoy was diagnosed with chikungunya shortly before the much-anticipated Paris 2024 Olympics. Despite this setback, he managed to compete, marking his Olympic debut and reaching the round of 16 in the men’s singles event. Unfortunately, he faced defeat in straight games against his fellow countryman, Lakshya Sen. Despite his participation in the Olympics, Prannoy continues to endure the repercussions of the illness, prompting his withdrawal from key tournaments, including the Japan Open 2024 and the Korea Open 2024.

In a recent statement on social media, the 32-year-old athlete expressed gratitude for the support he has received from fans and emphasized the importance of focusing on his health before returning to the competitive circuit. “After careful consideration with my team, I have decided to withdraw from some of the upcoming tournaments to focus on recovery. Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. I will return stronger,” Prannoy stated.

It is pertinent to note that prior to his chikungunya diagnosis, Prannoy also dealt with a stomach disorder and a back injury, revealing the compounding challenges he has faced as an athlete. Although he has not disclosed a specific timeline for his recovery, his commitment to returning to form remains firm.

Since 2022, HS Prannoy has been recognized as one of the most accomplished players in Indian badminton. He notably triumphed over two-time Olympic gold medallist Viktor Axelsen during the quarter-finals at the World Championships in Copenhagen, securing a bronze medal. Furthermore, he clinched a bronze medal at the Asian Games 2023 and contributed to the Indian men’s badminton team winning silver at the Hangzhou Asian Games, alongside their historic gold medal at the Thomas Cup in 2022.

In related news, Commonwealth Games champion Lakshya Sen has also opted not to compete in the Japan Open tournament this week. Sen is currently in Salzburg, Austria, undergoing a physical assessment aimed at maximizing his performance in future BWF tournaments. He is scheduled to focus on his fitness for a week before returning to India.

In conclusion, while HS Prannoy faces significant health challenges, his dedication to recovery and future competition remains evident. His commitment to the sport and gratitude to his supporters continue to reflect his character as a prominent figure in Indian badminton.

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