PV Sindhu Elected Chair of BWF Athletes’ Commission (2026–2029)

Sindhu’s Elevation to Global Sports Leadership

Two-time Olympic medallist P. V. Sindhu has been elected Chair of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Athletes’ Commission for the 2026–2029 term. The appointment, confirmed by Olympics.com , marks a major milestone for athlete-led governance in international badminton and places an Indian sportsperson at the heart of global decision-making.

Role and Institutional Significance

As Chair, Sindhu will also become a member of the BWF Council , ensuring that players’ perspectives are directly represented at the highest administrative level. The Athletes’ Commission functions as a formal bridge between competitors and administrators, advising the federation on tournament conditions, athlete welfare, integrity issues and long-term policy reforms. Sindhu’s leadership strengthens the principle of participatory governance in world sport.

Continuity and Acknowledgement of Past Leadership

Sindhu thanked fellow athletes for their trust and acknowledged the contribution of former Chair Greysia Polii of Indonesia. Polii, a Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medallist in women’s doubles, led the commission from 2021 to 2025 before retiring from professional badminton in 2022. Sindhu noted that the new term would build upon the foundations laid by her predecessor.

Experience and Commitment to Athlete Welfare

Sindhu has been associated with the BWF Athletes’ Commission since 2017 and has served as a BWF Integrity Ambassador since 2020 , promoting ethics, anti-doping awareness and fair play. She stated that her priority would be to work collaboratively with the federation to bring about meaningful, athlete-centric reforms with long-term impact.

Commission Composition and Future Engagements

Dutch shuttler Debora Jille has been elected Deputy Chair. Other members include Olympic champion An Se-young , Doha Hany of Egypt and Jia Yifan of China. In para-badminton, Chan Ho Yuen Daniel will serve as Chair, with Indian para-shuttler Abu Hubaida also on the panel. Sindhu is next set to lead India at the 2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships in Qingdao.

Important Facts for Exams

• BWF is the global governing body for badminton

• Athletes’ Commissions ensure player representation in governance

• PV Sindhu won Olympic silver (2016) and bronze (2020)

• Integrity Ambassadors promote ethics and fair play