Currently training at the Nikhil Kanetkar Academy in Balewadi, Varun Kapur is regarded as one of the top badminton prospects in India. He was ranked 1 in the BWF Junior Rankings (March 2021), winning the Uganda International series in 2021, the Lithuanian Juniors in August 2019 and Li Ning Cyprus Juniors & Valmar Juniors in April 2019. He has played a total of 75 matches with a win percentage of 78% and has received a Golden Visa from the Dubai Sports Council.
In this exclusive interview, Varun Kapur speaks about his badminton journey, moving to Pune for his professional career, experience at the Nikhil Kanetkar Academy, special achievements, overcoming challenges and his future goals.
Q 1) When were you first introduced to badminton and what made you pursue it professionally?
I started playing badminton back in Kolkata when I was six, but that was only for fun. My coaches said that I was playing well, but there was no infrastructure there (Kolkata) to develop as a badminton player so I decided to move to Pune. I had been here before for summer camps and that helped me make my decision.
Q 2) How difficult was it to shift to Pune at the age of 11 to become a professional badminton player?
Born and brought up in Kolkata, it was due to the love for the sport that I decided to move to Pune. Leaving my family and coming to seek new pastures in the city with my mother was a hard thing to do for an 11-year-old.
Q 3) How has your experience been at the Nikhil Kanetkar Academy in Balewadi?
My coach Nikhil Kanetkar built my confidence, instilled courage and made me work harder, which I am glad about. I have excellent relations with Nikhil Sir and all the coaches in the academy.
Q 4) You have won a number of tournaments such as Uganda International series 2021, Lithuanian Juniors, Aug 2019 and Li Ning Cyprus Juniors & Valmar Juniors, April 2019. What has been the most special achievement in your career so far and why?
Two moments are very special to me : First one was being selected to represent India in the Asian Badminton Championship and the second was becoming Junior World Number 2 at the start of 2021. I am also honoured to have received the Golden Visa and would like to thank the Dubai Sports Council.
Q 5) What are some of the biggest challenges that you have faced in your career and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was to play an international tournament right after my boards. It actually worked out in my favor and was a great confidence boost
Q 6) What are some of your future goals and aspirations? How are you working towards achieving them?
Representing my country in the Olympic Games. I am training and working towards achieving this goal by practicing each day.
