Marking her entry into global administrative role, two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu has taken up a full voting position on the Council of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) after being elected chair of the BWF Athletes’ Commission.
Sindhu, a former world champion, has been part of the Athletes’ Commission since 2017 and also served as a BWF Integrity Ambassador since 2020. In December last year, she was elected chair of the commission for the 2026–2029 term.
After completing the formal voting process, she officially joined the BWF Council at the end of 2025. She made her first appearance in this new role during the BWF Annual General Meeting in Horsens, marking the start of her tenure in the sport’s top decision-making body.
“It is a true honour and privilege to take on this responsibility within the Badminton World Federation and to represent the voices of athletes from around the world. Badminton has given me so much, and I feel deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the sport in this capacity.
“I am especially grateful to BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul for her warmth and encouragement, and I look forward to working closely with the Council and the wider BWF community as we continue to strengthen and grow this wonderful sport across the world,” Sindhu said in a statement.
As a voting member of the Council, Sindhu will be involved in discussions and decisions that shape the future of badminton. Her role will allow her to bring the views and experiences of top athletes directly into the sport’s global leadership.
“Her presence within the council is particularly significant as it remains rare for an active athlete competing at the highest level of the sport to simultaneously hold a voting position within badminton’s global governance structure. In this role, Sindhu will help ensure that the voices, experiences and priorities of players are represented at the highest levels of decision-making,” the BWF said in a release.
Over the years, Sindhu has built a strong reputation not just as a successful player but also as one of badminton’s leading global ambassadors. Her appointment to the Council reflects the trust placed in her experience, leadership and understanding of the game.
“Over many years, P. V. Sindhu has demonstrated exceptional skill, grace and spirit on the court, and it is wonderful to now have such an outstanding role model representing the voice of our athletes. Athletes are the heart of our sport, and their voices must remain central to every decision we make.
“Through the BWF Athletes’ Commission, our global badminton community continues to be shaped by those who live and breathe the game. We very much look forward to working closely with Sindhu in the years ahead as we continue our efforts to grow badminton and strengthen its place among the world’s leading sports,” BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul said.