Mani Maran’s, a passionate badminton player, rediscovered his love for the sport in 2010 and has never looked back. From founding the Indian Badminton Association-Kuwait to winning international Masters medals, his journey has been driven by competition, adventure, and a love for the sport.
As he prepares for the 2025 World Masters Games in Taipei, Mani is eager to take on an exciting new challenge and explore another exciting destination. We caught up with him to discuss his badminton journey, the thrill of Masters sport, and his advice for those looking to stay active through competition.
Can you give us a little introduction about yourself and your journey in badminton?
I’m a passionate badminton player who grew up watching my dad compete, which sparked my love for the sport. Though I played various sports in school and college, I truly rediscovered my love for badminton after moving to Kuwait in 2010.
That journey led me to establish the first professional badminton academy, the Indian Badminton Association-Kuwait (IBAK). My Masters adventure started at the European Masters Games in Tampere, where I had great success, winning gold in XD 50, gold in MD 45, and a team bronze.
I later earned a bronze at the Canadian Masters (XD 50) but had to sit out the Cleveland Games due to health reasons. Now, I’m excited and ready to take on the competition in Taipei!
How has Badminton shaped your life?
Badminton has been a part of my life in different phases—starting in school, then during med school, and finally becoming a regular part of my routine since 2010. I’ve always been passionate about sports, competing at district, state, and national levels in my younger years. My journey into Masters sport began in 2023 at the India level, and it’s been an exciting new chapter.
What has been the key to sustaining your love of badminton until now?
My passion for sport has always burned brightly, and what keeps it going is the thrill of competing – both locally and internationally.
The challenge of pushing myself, improving my game, and achieving strong performances on different stages keeps me motivated.
How important is the travel and adventure aspect of Masters sport to you?
I absolutely love to travel, and I’m passionate about badminton – so the Masters Games are the perfect combination of both!
With each edition hosted in a different venue, it allows me to explore new places while doing what I love most.
What are some of your career highlights or favourite moments?
One of my proudest moments was winning my first international Masters medal in badminton, especially since I was competing in a lower age category.
Another unforgettable memory was during med school, when I managed to win a crucial final game for my class—despite playing with a dislocated shoulder! That victory helped us secure the overall championship, and it’s an achievement I’ll always cherish.
Beyond the medals, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to compete in over 20 countries, and my goal is to one day play badminton on all seven continents!
What is your advice to anyone considering pursuing Masters sport?
Go for it while you can! Masters sport is an incredible opportunity to stay active, challenge yourself, and connect with like-minded people.
You are planning on competing in Taipei at the 2025 World Masters Games—what are you most looking forward to?
I’m excited to explore a new place and, of course, take on the competition!
Sign up for the World Masters Games in Taipei & New Taipei City here.
