Badminton
Ashwini Ponnappa Machimanda, born on September 18, 1989, is an Indian badminton player who represents the country in both the women's and mixed doubles disciplines at the international badminton circuit. She is known for her successful partnership with Jwala Gutta, with whom she has won numerous medals in international events.
Ponnappa and Gutta formed a formidable pair and achieved significant success in their career. They consistently ranked among the top 20 in the BWF World Ranking, reaching as high as no. 10. Together, they won a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games and bronze medals at the Uber Cup and the Asian Badminton Championships. In 2011, they made history by winning the bronze medal at the BWF World Championships, becoming the first Indian women's pair and the second overall from India to win a medal at the World Championships.
Ponnappa's badminton journey began in 2001 when she won her first national title in the sub-junior girls' doubles category. She continued to excel and secured the national title in sub-junior girls' doubles in 2004, as well as the junior girls' doubles national title in 2006 and 2007. In 2010, she achieved success at the South Asian Games, winning the gold medal in mixed doubles and the team events.
The breakthrough moment for Ponnappa and Gutta came at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, where they made history by winning the gold medal in the women's doubles event. This victory marked India's first-ever gold medal in that event and brought them into the spotlight as household names in Indian badminton.
Ponnappa's partnership with Gutta has been instrumental in raising the profile of doubles badminton in India. Their achievements on the international stage have contributed to the growth and popularity of the sport in the country.