Thomas Cup: BAI Announces Rs 1 Crore Prize Money For Players, Rs 20 Lakh For Support Staff

Indian men's badminton team created history when they upset 14-time champions and holders Indonesia 3-0 to clinch their first ever Thomas Cup title in Bangkok on Sunday. The underdogs, who had not reached the last four stage of this prestigious tournament since 1979, had assured themselves of a medal by beating Malaysia on Thursday and then got the better of Denmark in the semi-finals with both matches going to the wire.

"It's a very proud moment for Indian badminton. We have had many individual triumphs but winning the Thomas Cup crown is very special. This shows the depth of talent we have among the men and full credit to the players and coaching staff for giving their ultimate best through this week and beating some of the biggest badminton powerhouses on their way to the title win," said Himanta Biswa Sarma, President, Badminton Association of India in a statement.

Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam, also talked to the team after their win. Talking about the same, he said: "Delighted to speak to the victorious Indian Badminton team after their historic win in Bangkok. While I was speaking to the team members, the roar of Bharat Mata Ki Jai in the stadium gave me goosebumps."

"A proud moment for every Indian. To celebrate this momentous occasion, on behalf of a grateful nation Badminton Association of India is honoured to announce a prize money of Rs 1 crore for our players and Rs 20 lakhs for our support staff. We look forward to several such national accomplishments in the coming months & years," he added.

World No. 23 HS Prannoy had justified the selectors decision to pick directly in the squad by winning both the deciding rubbers and remained undefeated, especially the second against Rasmus Gemke of