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Adil Premji’s Badminton Story: From Atlanta Courts to World Stage

NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT

Atlanta, GA, August 13, 2025: Adil Premji’s love affair with badminton began at the tender age of five, with a tiny racket in his hand and a family whose passion for the sport ran deep. His parents, AlKarim and Dilshad Premji, were more than just avid players—they were visionaries. In 1997, they founded a badminton club in Atlanta, Georgia, with a simple yet powerful mission: to grow the sport they loved and to foster a sense of community through friendly competition.

What started as a small gathering of just five members soon blossomed into a vibrant hub, welcoming players aged 21 to 70 from diverse backgrounds. For the Premjis, the club was never just about the sport—it was about creating a second family on and off the court.

From childhood, Adil trained rigorously under his parents’ watchful eyes. The family didn’t just practice together—they competed together. Over two decades, Adil built a remarkable doubles partnership with his father in men’s events, and with his mother in mixed doubles. Together, they traveled the world, representing their club and culture at tournaments, including the prestigious International Tournament in Dubai in 2016.

That same year brought one of Adil’s proudest moments: being chosen as the flag bearer for Team USA. Marching onto the world stage with the Stars and Stripes in his hands was more than an athletic honor—it was a profound privilege.

His dedication has brought an impressive haul: more than 160 trophies and 70 medals from local, national, and international competitions. In April 2025, he claimed the state championship title and capped July with a Gold and Silver Medal at the GE Festival in Dubai.

Yet for Adil, the greatest rewards are not measured in podium finishes. Today, he devotes his energy to coaching young players, instilling in them the same discipline, sportsmanship, and love for the game that shaped his own journey. Through mentorship, he continues the legacy his parents began—using badminton not just as a sport, but as a way to build character, community, and lifelong passion.

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