(Image source from: Saina Nehwal out of Hong Kong Super Series})

Bad form and poor performance continues to plague Indian top shuttler Saina Nehwal who lost her women's singles second round tie at the Hong Kong Super Series yesterday. This is her third loss in a row after French and China tournament.

Her coach and mentor Pullela Gopichand feels that the "hectic international and domestic schedule has taken a toll on Saina Nehwal's fitness and form this season” but believes that "solid training" will make the Indian ace battle-ready for 2014.

The 23-year-old Saina had a poor run this season as she failed to win a single title. Besides a couple of semifinal finishes at All England and Malaysia Open, the Indian has had nothing to show this year.

"I think it's very obvious that she has not played very well. It has been a tiring year. These results came because fitness levels came down. It has been a hectic season," Gopichand told reporters.

"The results till September have been very good. After that, there has been slight slack in form. I don't think it is a cause of concern. We will get two-three weeks good break and we will have some time to train. I am sure by next season, she should be alright," he said.

AW: Suchorita Dutta Choudhury