Gopichand launches new Ahtlen Academy in Doha

Pullela Gopichand, the former All England Champion, has ambitious plans to promote badminton in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

As part of his strategy, the Indian legend hopes to open multiple academies in GCC countries under the Gulf Badminton Academy (GBA) umbrella.

With the goal of grooming talent and producing future champions, GBA has launched Ahtlen Academy in Doha in collaboration with Qatar-based Athlen Sports Events. The goal of Athlen Sports Events partnering with the GBA is to bring world-class coaching to Qatar.

The former world champion shuttler was optimistic that Qatar, which will host the Asian Games in 2030, would make inroads into the sport.

“Qatar has invested heavily in sport and that’s reflected in their initiatives like the FIFA World Cup, the 2030 Asian Games and Aspire Academy. They also have passionate athletes. Badminton is a big sport at the Asian Games and if Qatar can make some inroads and be a part of it at a substantial level, it’ll be great. Eight years is a long time and I hope with a structured programme, it can be achieved,” he said.

Gopichand will train the Academy’s coaches at his academy in Hyderabad. Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy (PGBA) senior coaches will visit on a regular basis to teach advanced skills. GBA, Doha students will be able to train at the GBA Center of Excellence in Dubai as well as the Pullela Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad. Students with Champion potential will be able to transfer to PGBA, Hyderabad.