PV Sindhu Leads Indian Challenge at Swiss Open 2025
The prestigious Swiss Open 2025 badminton tournament is set to begin at St Jakobshalle in Basel, Switzerland, with two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu spearheading India’s campaign. As one of India’s most accomplished shuttlers, Sindhu will be aiming to add another title to her illustrious career, having previously won the Swiss Open in 2022. A Badminton World Federation (BWF) Super 300 tournament, the Swiss Open promises exciting competition as Sindhu, currently ranked world number 16, will face off against fellow Indian and world number 28 Malvika Bansod in the first round of the women’s singles category. This all-Indian battle is expected to be a thrilling encounter, showcasing the depth of talent in Indian badminton. Joining Sindhu in the women’s singles category are Anupama Upadhyaya, Aakarshi Kashyap, and Rakshitha Ramraj. These young players have been making steady progress on the international circuit and will look to make a mark in Basel. The qualifiers for women’s singles also feature Isharani Baruah, Anmol Kharb, and Tasnim Mir, further demonstrating India’s growing talent pool in women’s badminton. Men’s Singles Challenge The men’s singles category also presents an exciting all-Indian clash in the first round, with world number 15 Lakshya Sen facing off against HS Prannoy, the 2016 Swiss Open champion. Sen, India’s highest-ranked men’s singles player, has been in strong form and will be looking to advance deep into the tournament. Other notable Indian contenders in the men’s singles draw include Priyanshu Rajawat and Kiran George. The qualifiers for the men’s singles event see entries from Kidambi Srikanth, Ayush Shetty, Sathish Karunakaran, Tharun Mannepalli, and Sankar Subramanian. These players will be aiming to progress into the main draw and make an impact on the big stage. Doubles Events: Women’s and Mixed Doubles In the women’s doubles competition, world number nine duo Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand will be India’s top contenders. The pair has been in impressive form and will be hoping to secure a deep run in the tournament. They will be joined by other Indian women’s doubles teams, including Priya Konjengbam-Shruti Mishra and Varshini Viswanath Sri-Arathi Sara Sunil, who will also be vying for success in Basel. India’s mixed doubles challenge will be led by Ashith Surya and Amrutha Pramuthesh, alongside the pair of Sathish Karunakaran and Aadya Variyath. Additionally, the qualifying rounds include Ayush Agarwal and Shruti Mishra, who will be looking to secure a spot in the main draw and showcase their talent on the international stage. Strong Global Contenders The Swiss Open 2025 will also feature some of the best players from around the world. The men’s singles top seed is China’s Shi Yu Qi, who is expected to be a strong title contender. In the women’s singles category, Thailand’s Pornpawee Chochuwong leads the seedings and will be looking to fend off competition from the Indian shuttlers and other international players. India’s Squad for Swiss Open 2025 Men’s Singles: Lakshya Sen HS Prannoy Priyanshu Rajawat Kiran George Kidambi Srikanth (Qualifiers) Ayush Shetty (Qualifiers) Sathish Karunakaran (Qualifiers) Tharun Mannepalli (Qualifiers) Sankar Subramanian (Qualifiers) Women’s Singles: PV Sindhu Malvika Bansod Anupama Upadhyaya Aakarshi Kashyap Rakshitha Ramraj Isharani Baruah (Qualifiers) Anmol Kharb (Qualifiers) Tasnim Mir (Qualifiers) Women’s Doubles: Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand Priya Konjengbam-Shruti Mishra Varshini Viswanath Sri-Arathi Sara Sunil Mixed Doubles: Ashith Surya-Amrutha Pramuthesh Sathish Karunakaran-Aadya Variyath Ayush Agarwal-Shruti Mishra (Qualifiers) Indian Hopes and Expectations With a strong contingent of players competing in different categories, India will be looking to make a significant impact at the Swiss Open 2025. PV Sindhu’s experience and past success at this event make her a leading contender, while Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy’s clash will be a highly anticipated battle in men’s singles. Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand’s consistency in women’s doubles also offers hope for a deep tournament run, while the young Indian shuttlers in the singles and doubles categories will be eager to prove their mettle on the international stage. As the tournament unfolds, Indian badminton fans will be keenly following the performances of their favorite players, hoping for another memorable campaign in Basel. The Swiss Open has always been an important event in the badminton calendar, and Indian shuttlers will look to capitalize on this opportunity to strengthen their presence on the global stage.
Dhruv-Tanisha Pair Falls Short in German Open Mixed Doubles Semifinals
The Indian challenge at the German Open Super 300 tournament came to an end on Saturday as the mixed doubles duo of Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto bowed out in the semifinals. The eighth-seeded Indian pair faced a tough challenge against Indonesia’s Rehan Naufal Kusharjanto and Gloria Emanuelle Widjaja, ultimately succumbing to a hard-fought 25-23, 10-21, 21-15 loss in a match that lasted an hour. A Spirited Fight Ends in Defeat Dhruv and Tanisha put up a commendable performance in the opening game, battling fiercely to secure a tight 25-23 win. However, their Indonesian opponents bounced back emphatically in the second game, dominating the rallies and winning 21-10 to level the match. In the decider, the Indian pair struggled to maintain their momentum as Kusharjanto and Widjaja capitalized on their experience and superior shot-making skills to claim the final game 21-15, sealing their place in the final. Despite the loss, reaching the semifinals at an event of this stature was a significant achievement for Dhruv and Tanisha, reflecting their growing stature on the international circuit. Their performance in Mulheim an der Ruhr will certainly provide them with valuable experience as they aim for stronger finishes in upcoming tournaments. Women’s Singles Disappointment In the women’s singles category, the Indian campaign faced an early setback as both Unnati Hooda and Rakshitha Sree Santosh Ramraj were eliminated in the quarterfinals on Friday. Their defeats marked the end of India’s hopes in the women’s singles draw. Adding to India’s misfortunes, young shuttler Tasnim Mir was forced to retire during the initial stages of the deciding game in her quarterfinal encounter. Her withdrawal was an unfortunate end to a promising campaign, as she had showcased impressive skills in the earlier rounds. Tharun Mannepalli’s Run Ends in Men’s Singles In the men’s singles event, India’s hopes rested on qualifier Tharun Mannepalli, who had a remarkable run through the tournament. However, his journey came to a halt in the quarterfinals, where he faced a strong challenge from French shuttler Toma Junior Popov. Mannepalli fought valiantly but ultimately fell short, bringing an end to his impressive campaign. Looking Ahead While the German Open may not have yielded a title for Indian shuttlers, the tournament offered crucial exposure and learning experiences. Dhruv and Tanisha’s semifinal appearance is a positive sign of their growing potential in mixed doubles, and they will be eager to build on this performance in future events. For the young women’s singles players, including Unnati, Rakshitha, and Tasnim, the event was a platform to test themselves against higher-ranked opponents. Their performances, despite the losses, will help them prepare better for upcoming tournaments. Similarly, Tharun Mannepalli’s journey as a qualifier reaching the quarterfinals is commendable. His performance suggests that Indian men’s singles has a promising talent pipeline that could produce strong results in the near future.
PV Sindhu Reflects on Her Badminton Journey, Future Aspirations, and Passion for the Sport
India’s celebrated badminton star and double Olympic medallist, PV Sindhu, recently opened up about her journey in the sport, her future aspirations, and the unwavering passion that drives her to keep pushing forward. Speaking at the Nasscom Technology and Leadership Forum, Sindhu emphasized the importance of perseverance, discipline, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. Despite experiencing both triumphs and challenges throughout her career, she remains determined to achieve greater heights in the sport she loves. Sindhu acknowledged that while success brings joy and recognition, the hard work and sacrifices behind the scenes often go unnoticed. She highlighted the necessity of resilience, stating that an athlete must remain committed and hopeful, as one never knows when a breakthrough moment might occur. The Power of Discipline and Perseverance Sindhu firmly believes that success in sports is a result of years of dedication and discipline. She noted that while people often see the medals and victories, they may not fully understand the rigorous efforts and relentless training that go into achieving those accomplishments. “It’s a process. Every single day, an athlete must be willing to put in the effort. Some days are great, and everything falls into place, but there are also days when nothing seems to work out. Despite those tough moments, you must keep going,” she explained. She further stressed that training is an ongoing journey, with both highs and lows. Athletes, she said, must learn to manage their emotions and continue working hard regardless of setbacks. Whether it’s a bad training session or a poor performance in a tournament, the key is to learn from those experiences and move forward with renewed determination. Passion That Fuels Excellence Sindhu expressed that her love for badminton remains as strong as ever, despite already achieving significant milestones in her career. Addressing the perception that she has already accomplished everything one could aspire to, she countered, “People might say, ‘You have everything, what else do you need?’ But for me, it’s about passion. I still have that hunger to do much better, to improve every single day, and to reach new levels in my game.” She acknowledged that victories serve as motivation, giving her the confidence and drive to aim even higher. “These wins give me a boost, making me want to push myself further. That’s why I always say, every day is a new day, and every day is a new process. Even if you have bad days, you have to let go and come back even stronger,” she added. Overcoming Challenges and Injuries Sindhu, who recently had to miss the Asian Mixed Badminton Championship due to an injury, spoke candidly about dealing with setbacks. She emphasized that injuries and disappointments are part of an athlete’s life, but the ability to stay focused and keep striving for excellence is what sets champions apart. She also reflected on the mental and physical toll that professional sports take on an athlete. “There are times when you are extremely exhausted, and training sessions feel impossible to complete. But those are the moments when discipline matters the most. It’s important to push through those difficulties because, at any moment, things can click, and all the hard work pays off.” The Long Road to Success Sindhu hopes that people understand the level of commitment it takes to reach the top in sports. “It’s not just about working hard for a few months or a year. It takes years and years of relentless effort to get to a certain level,” she emphasized. She encouraged aspiring athletes to embrace the grind and trust in the process. “You have to believe in yourself and keep putting in the effort every single day. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but if you are dedicated and passionate about what you do, the results will come.” As she continues her journey, Sindhu remains focused on achieving new milestones and proving that she still has much more to offer. With her undying passion, commitment, and unwavering belief in herself, she continues to be an inspiration for athletes and sports enthusiasts around the world.
Olympic Medallist Shuttler Saina Nehwal Visits Maha Kumbh With Father
Indian badminton star and Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal recently made a memorable visit to Mahakumbh Nagar, immersing herself in the sacred waters of Triveni Sangam during the ongoing Maha Kumbh. Her presence at the world’s largest spiritual gathering added a touch of inspiration for many devotees and fans who had gathered to partake in this significant event. Upon her arrival, Saina expressed her deep admiration for Maha Kumbh, describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. She shared her excitement about being part of such a grand occasion and emphasized how fortunate she felt to witness this massive congregation of spirituality and devotion. Accompanied by her father, she planned to visit Triveni Sangam in the evening, a moment she looked forward to with great anticipation. She also revealed her wish to return in the future with her mother, further cementing her emotional connection to the festival. Speaking about her experience, Saina said, “Being part of this sacred event is truly special. I commend the Uttar Pradesh government for organizing such an incredible festival. It’s heartwarming to see people from all walks of life come together in faith and devotion. I hope this event continues to gain recognition globally, inspiring more individuals to participate.” Her words resonated with many, as Maha Kumbh is known for its profound spiritual impact and rich traditions. The shuttler was visibly moved by the sense of unity and strength displayed by the attendees. She emphasized the importance of cultural and spiritual events in shaping society and fostering a collective sense of belonging. “It’s a beautiful sight to see so many people united in faith. This festival is a reflection of our country’s rich heritage and deep-rooted traditions. I feel honored to witness this firsthand.” Saina also took a moment to extend her best wishes to the youth of the nation, highlighting the role of spiritual gatherings in promoting positivity and inner strength. She encouraged young people to embrace such experiences, recognizing them as opportunities to find balance and motivation in their lives. “These events instill a sense of discipline, energy, and inspiration. They remind us of our cultural values and offer moments of introspection that are essential for growth.” Reflecting on the broader significance of Maha Kumbh, Saina prayed for India’s continued progress and success. She expressed her hopes for the nation to achieve greater heights in various fields, from sports to development. “India is moving forward in so many ways, and I sincerely hope we continue this journey of progress. Events like Maha Kumbh remind us of our shared history and encourage us to work together for a brighter future.” Maha Kumbh has always been a magnet for devotees and visitors from across the world. This year has been no exception, with millions flocking to take the holy dip and participate in various spiritual rituals. The festival, which began on January 13 and will continue until February 26, has witnessed the presence of many prominent figures. Before Saina’s visit, Olympian boxer and former Rajya Sabha MP Mary Kom, former cricketer Suresh Raina, and ICC chairman Jay Shah were among the renowned personalities who made their way to the sacred event. As the festival continues to draw people from all walks of life, Maha Kumbh stands as a testament to India’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy. The participation of celebrated athletes like Saina Nehwal not only adds to the significance of the event but also inspires many to explore and embrace the spiritual essence that lies at the heart of this grand gathering. For those who have yet to experience Maha Kumbh, Saina’s visit serves as a reminder of the festival’s unique charm and the deep spiritual fulfillment it offers. Whether for faith, tradition, or self-discovery, this gathering remains one of India’s most extraordinary cultural spectacles, uniting people in devotion and hope for a better future.
PV Sindhu Set To Marry on December 22: All You Need to Know
Two-time Olympic medallist and badminton star PV Sindhu is set to tie the knot on December 22 in Udaipur. Sindhu, a former world champion and one of India’s most celebrated athletes, will marry Venkata Datta Sai, an executive director at Posidex Technologies based in Hyderabad. According to Sindhu’s father, PV Ramana, the two families had known each other for a while, but the wedding was finalized only a month ago. December 22 was chosen as the wedding date due to Sindhu’s packed schedule beginning January. The wedding festivities will kick off on December 20, followed by a grand reception in Hyderabad on December 24. Sindhu plans to resume her training shortly after the celebrations, as the upcoming badminton season is crucial for her career. Sindhu boasts an illustrious career with five world championship medals, including a gold in 2019, and two Olympic medals—a silver in Rio 2016 and a bronze in Tokyo 2020. She also achieved a career-high world ranking of No. 2 in 2017, cementing her status as one of India’s greatest athletes. The announcement of Sindhu’s wedding comes shortly after her impressive performance at the Syed Modi International badminton tournament in Lucknow. Sindhu advanced to the finals of the BWF Super 300 event, ending a two-year title drought. In the semi-finals, she defeated her 17-year-old compatriot Unnati Hooda with a commanding score of 21-12, 21-9. Ranked 18th in the world, Sindhu will face China’s Wu Luo Yu, ranked 119th, in the final. This victory marks a potential turning point for Sindhu, who last won a BWF World Tour title at the Singapore Open in July 2022. With her strong comeback at the Syed Modi International, Sindhu has reignited hopes of achieving further glory on the badminton circuit. As Sindhu prepares to celebrate a new chapter in her personal life, her dedication to her sport remains unwavering. Balancing her wedding celebrations and rigorous training schedule, Sindhu continues to inspire millions as a symbol of perseverance and excellence in Indian sports.
Koki Watanabe, Busanan Ongbamrungphan win 2024 Canada Open
The 2024 Canada Open, a thrilling BWF World Tour Super 500 event, concluded on Sunday with memorable victories in both the men’s and women’s singles categories. Koki Watanabe of Japan and Busanan Ongbamrungphan of Thailand emerged as champions, showcasing their exceptional skills and determination. Busanan Ongbamrungphan wins women’s singles In the women’s singles final, Ongbamrungphan faced Line Hojmark Kjaersfeldt of Denmark, the No. 4 seed. Ongbamrungphan, who had previously defeated the top seed Zhang Beiwen from the USA in the semi-finals, dominated the final match. She led throughout both sets, securing a 21-16, 21-14 victory in just 53 minutes. This win marked Ongbamrungphan’s first title of 2024 and her first BWF World Tour title since the 2022 India Open. Koki Watanabe wins men’s singles On the men’s side, the tournament saw significant upsets with both the No. 1 seed Anders Antonsen and the No. 2 seed Kodai Naraoka being eliminated in the quarter-finals. This made the way for the No. 6 seed Koki Watanabe to face an unexpected opponent in the final, the unseeded Alex Lanier from France, who is ranked World No. 37. Watanabe, who had earlier won over Naraoka in a challenging quarter-final match, demonstrated resilience and skill. Despite losing the first game to Lanier, he made a strong comeback to win 20-22, 21-17, 21-6, capturing his first BWF World Tour title since the 2023 Swiss Open. The men’s doubles final featured the top-seeded Danish pair Kim Astrup and Anders Skaarup Rasmussen. They were tested by the English duo Ben Lane and Sean Vendy, ultimately securing victory after dropping the first game. The Danish pair won 18-21, 21-14, 21-11. In the mixed doubles category, Danish pair Jesper Toft and Amalie Magelund pulled off a surprising upset. They defeated Mathias Christiansen and Alexandra Bøje in a thrilling match that ended 9-21, 24-22, 21-12. Japan also claimed victory in the women’s doubles category. The top duo Rin Iwanaga and Kie Nakanishi overcame the Taiwanese pair Hsu Yin-Hui and Lin Jhih Yun with a decisive 21-13, 21-13 win. The 2024 Canada Open was a showcase of incredible talent and unexpected outcomes, highlighting the competitive spirit and resilience of the athletes. As Watanabe and Ongbamrungphan celebrate their well-deserved victories, the badminton world eagerly anticipates their future performances on the global stage.
India’s young badminton brigade ready for 2024 US Open
India’s rising badminton stars are set to shine at the US Open 2024 in Texas. As the country’s top players prepare for the upcoming Paris Olympics, the spotlight will be on emerging talents like Gayatri Gopichand/Treesa Jolly, Priyanshu Rajawat, and Malvika Bansod. Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu and world championship medallists Chirag Shetty/Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, HS Prannoy, and Lakshya Sen have opted out of this year’s BWF Super 300 tournament. This absence opens the door for younger players to make their mark on the international stage. The challengers of India In the women’s doubles, Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly, ranked 24th in the world, are seeded second. The duo, who won a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games, are seeking their first BWF title since their triumph at the Odisha Open over two years ago. Their recent performance at the Singapore Open, where they reached the semi-finals of a BWF Super 750 tournament, was particularly impressive. They defeated All England champions Baek Ha Na and Lee So Hee, as well as Tokyo 2020 bronze medallists Kim So Yeong and Kong Hee Yong. In Texas, Gayatri and Treesa have received a bye in the first round of the women’s doubles event, to be held at the Fort Worth Convention Center. Priyanshu Rajawat, a member of India’s historic 2022 Thomas Cup-winning team, is another player to watch. Ranked 40th in the world, Rajawat is seeded eighth in the men’s singles and will face Jan Louda of Czechia in the first round. Rajawat is aiming for his first BWF title since winning the Orleans Masters in April last year. The women’s singles will feature India’s Malvika Bansod and Tanya Hemanth in the absence of star shuttler PV Sindhu. Malvika ranked 49th globally and Tanya, ranked 73rd, will lead India’s challenge in this category. Both players have a chance to prove their mettle and gain valuable experience on the international circuit. The importance of US Open The US Open 2024 promises to be a significant event for these rising stars. Their performances could signal the beginning of a new era in Indian badminton, showcasing the depth of talent in the country. With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, this tournament is a crucial stepping stone for these young shuttlers to establish themselves and gain momentum. As India’s established stars prepare for the Olympics, the US Open offers a unique platform for the next generation to step up and make their presence felt. The performances of Gayatri Gopichand/Treesa Jolly, Priyanshu Rajawat, and Malvika Bansod will be closely watched by badminton enthusiasts and could set the stage for more Indian success on the global stage. The future of Indian badminton looks bright, and the US Open 2024 is an exciting opportunity for these young athletes to demonstrate their skills and potential. With the right mix of talent, determination, and support, they could very well follow in the footsteps of their illustrious predecessors and bring more glory to the nation.
I Learned The Smash From Volleyball: Indian Shuttler Satwik
Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy have taken the badminton world by storm. The bronze medallists from the 2022 World Championship in Tokyo and the 2022 Asian Games gold medallists have become the first Indian men’s doubles pair to be ranked world No.1. As they gear up to represent India at Paris 2024, their journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Recently, the duo shared insights into their game and personal lives during an engaging session with Dinesh Karthik on JioCinema’s ‘Get Set Gold’. The conversation revealed some fascinating aspects of their training, their camaraderie, and the influences that shaped their sporting careers. Satwik’s intriguing revelation One of the most intriguing revelations came from Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, who holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest badminton hit at a staggering speed of 565 km/hr. He shared how he developed his powerful smash, a crucial element in his game. Surprisingly, Satwik’s inspiration came not from badminton, but from volleyball. “I learned the smash from volleyball, observing how players jump and smash. It looked heroic, and that’s how I started practising my jump. No one taught me; it was something I picked up on my own,” Satwik explained. He also described his strategy of taking a peripheral view to sense opponents’ positions, transitioning from hitting angled shots to targeting opponents’ bodies directly. In their chat with the media, Shetty and Rankireddy discussed the physical demands of their sport and the surprises they often encounter from their opponents’ sheer physicality. Shetty elaborated on the nuances of playing doubles, emphasizing that it’s not just about power. “The game involves a lot more, like defence, net play, and getting the lift right. Defence is a critical part of the game. Doubles isn’t just about power; it’s about precision and strategy,” he said. Beyond the court partnership Beyond the court, their partnership has grown through shared experiences and common interests. Shetty humorously recounted how Rankireddy influenced his music preferences, switching from Punjabi beats to South Indian tracks. “Before the Asian Games, Satwik introduced me to Anirudh Ravichander’s music,” Shetty shared. Rankireddy added that their playlist, featuring songs like ‘Hukum’ and ‘Chaleya’, helps set the mood, with the KGF background score serving as their entrance theme. The journey to the top The journey to becoming the world’s top-ranked pair was not without its challenges. Shetty candidly spoke about the early days of their partnership, which were marred by a language barrier. “I used to feel burdened, as if playing together was forced upon us. I spoke Hindi, and Satwik was more comfortable with Telugu. But our then-coach Kim Tan believed in our potential, which made us feel less pressured and more willing to partner each other,” Shetty recalled. Rankireddy reflected on how their partnership evolved into a seamless collaboration. He described how they now communicate almost telepathically during matches, understanding each other’s moves and strategies instinctively. Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy’s story is one of perseverance, mutual respect, and shared goals. As they continue to push boundaries and set new records, their journey serves as an inspiration to many young athletes in India and around the world. With the Paris 2024 Olympics on the horizon, all eyes will be on this dynamic duo as they strive to bring more glory to their country.
Viktor Axelsen loses top spot ahead of Paris Olympics
In a significant shift in the world of badminton, Viktor Axelsen has been dethroned from his long-held position as the number one men’s singles player in the BWF World Rankings. After an impressive 132-week reign at the top, Axelsen has been overtaken by Shi Yuqi of the People’s Republic of China. A new era in men’s badminton The latest rankings released mark a new era in men’s badminton. Shi Yuqi’s rise to the number-one spot comes on the heels of his outstanding performances in recent tournaments. Shi clinched consecutive victories at the Singapore Open and the Indonesia Open, showcasing his dominance on the court. Conversely, Axelsen, the Olympic champion from Denmark, faced a setback as he had to withdraw from the Indonesia Open due to an injury. This unfortunate turn of events contributed to his fall in the rankings. The last time Axelsen was not ranked first was on November 23, 2021, when Japan’s Momota Kento held the top spot. Momota retired from professional badminton, making Axelsen’s subsequent reign uncontested until now. With the Paris 2024 Olympics fast approaching, Axelsen’s focus will undoubtedly be on reclaiming his position and defending his Olympic title. The badminton tournament at the Paris Games is set to begin on July 27, and Axelsen will be keen to prove that he remains a formidable force in the sport despite his recent ranking drop. The competitive nature of international badminton The updated BWF rankings not only highlight Shi Yuqi’s ascent but also reflect the competitive nature of international badminton. The list of the top 25-ranked singles shuttlers includes a mix of seasoned players and rising stars, making the road to Paris 2024 even more exciting. Shi Yuqi’s achievement is a testament to his hard work and resilience. Climbing to the top of the rankings is no small feat and requires consistent excellence. His recent triumphs in Singapore and Indonesia demonstrate his readiness to challenge the best and solidify his status as the world’s leading shuttler. As fans and athletes gear up for the Paris 2024 Games, the shift in rankings adds an extra layer of anticipation. Will Axelsen reclaim his throne, or will Shi Yuqi maintain his newly acquired position at the summit of men’s badminton? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the competition will be fierce, and the stakes higher than ever. In the meantime, badminton enthusiasts worldwide will be watching closely, eager to see how this rivalry unfolds in the lead-up to the Olympics.
Australian Open: HS Prannoy to lead India’s charge
HS Prannoy will lead India’s badminton challenge at the Australian Open, starting June 11 in Sydney. This BWF Super 500 event is crucial for Prannoy, who is keen to regain his form after recent setbacks. Prannoy, seeded fifth in this tournament now aims to turn his luck around, beginning with his opening match against Ygor Coelho of Brazil. Prannoy’s recent performances have been less than stellar. At the Thailand Open last month, he suffered a surprising defeat in the first round to compatriot Meiraba Luwang Maisnam. Following that, at the Singapore Open, Prannoy lost to Kenta Nishimoto in a hard-fought Round of 16 match, ending 13-21, 21-14, 15-21. These losses have motivated Prannoy to make a strong comeback in Sydney. Men’s singles challengers In addition to Prannoy, several other Indian shuttlers will compete in the men’s singles category too. Sameer Verma will face Indonesia’s Chico Aura Dwi Wardoyo in the opening round, while Ravi will take on the challenging eighth seed, Loh Kean Yew of Singapore. Mithun Manjunath will also play against Alwi Farhan from Indonesia, Kiran George is matched with Canada’s Xiaodong Sheng, and S Sankar Muthusamy Subramanian has a tough draw against top seed Jonatan Christie of Indonesia. Women’s singles challengers The women’s singles category sees eighth seed Aakarshi Kashyap leading the Indian contingent. She is set to play Polina Buhrova of Ukraine in her opening match. Other notable matches include Ashmita Chaliha facing Peru’s Ines Lucia Castillo, Anupama Upadhyaya battling Malaysia’s Wong Ling Ching, and Samiya Imad Farooqui taking on top seed Akane Yamaguchi of Japan. Additionally, Keyura Mopati and Malvika Bansod will compete against each other in an all-Indian first-round clash. The doubles’ challengers In doubles, India has no representation in the men’s doubles category. However, the Panda sisters, Rutuparna and Swetaparna, seeded seventh, will lead the charge in the women’s doubles, along with the pair of Harshita Rout and Sruti Swain. The mixed doubles category features three Indian pairs: eighth seed B Sumeeth Reddy and Sikki Reddy will play against the Malaysian duo of Wong Tien Ci and Lim Chiew Sien, Tarun Kona and Sri Krishna Priya Kudaravalli face another Malaysian pair, Hoo Pang Ron and Cheng Su Yin, and the duo of Ayush Raj Gupta and Sruti Swain will compete against Australians Jordan Yang and Sydney Tjonadi. The Australian Open is an important opportunity for Indian players to showcase their skills on an international stage. For Prannoy, this tournament is particularly significant as he seeks to bounce back from recent disappointments and prove his mettle. The competition is stiff, but the Indian contingent is prepared to face the challenges head-on. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how these athletes perform, with hopes high for a successful campaign in Sydney.