Gopi Chand  was accorded a fantastic reception on his return to the city after winning the All England Championship. He arrived here on 17th morning by Delhi flight at 8.45 am and it took almost 45 mts for him to come out of the Airport wading through his fans and well wishers who all stormed the Airport early morning itself. The Sports Minister and all the sports officials were also present to receive the shuttler.

From the Airport Gopi was taken on an open jeep to the Raj Bhavan where he  met the Governor. Thereafter the was taken to the Assembly  premises where the CM received him and was all praise for his fantastic performance.

Later in the evening at the reception hosted by the State government at the Lal Bahadur Stadium he was presented with the documents for house site of his choice in the twin cities worth Rs 50 lakhs and a cash award of Rs 25 lakhs.

In another function of the day,Gopi Chand was presented with a brand new Hyundai Accent car by the Jublee Hills International Club.

CM Congratulates Gopi Chand for winning All England.

The Chief Minister Mr.N.Chandrababu Naidu congratulated Pullela Gopichand for winning the All England Badminton Championship defeating Chen Hong of China in straight sets 15-12, 15-6.

The Chief Minister said Andhra Pradesh is proud of its great son Gopichand who became the second Indian to win the All England Badminton Championship after Prakash Padukone who won the championship in 1980. Mr.Naidu while greeting Mr.Gopichand said this is a big day for Indian Badminton. Mr. Naidu hailed the dedication, concentration and hard work of Gopichand who could come to the top by absolute dedication to the game. Mr.Naidu wished Mr.Gopichand many more laurels and a bright future. He also told Mr.Gopichand in a message that Andhra Pradesh in particular and the country in general is proud of him. 

"His is a story of sheer hard work & determination"
( Gopi's classmate at St.Pauls High School recollects his obsession with the game).

-March '2001

More News