Daijiworld Media Network - Ningbo

Ningbo, Apr 11: In a breakthrough performance, Ayush Shetty delivered a sensational upset to enter the final of the Badminton Asia Championships, defeating World No. 1 Kunlavut Vitidsarn in a gripping semi-final at the Ningbo Olympic Sports Centre on Saturday.

Ranked 25th in the world, Ayush bounced back after losing the opening game to secure a remarkable 10-21, 21-19, 21-17 victory in a match that lasted over an hour. After being outplayed early on, he showed resilience and tactical sharpness, turning the tide with aggressive shot-making and improved net control.

The victory marks a significant milestone, making Ayush the first Indian men’s singles shuttler since H. S. Prannoy in 2018 to clinch a medal at the Badminton Asia Championships. It also ends India’s brief wait for a podium finish at the tournament, with the previous medal coming in 2023 through the doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty.

Ayush’s run to the final has been nothing short of impressive. In the quarter-finals, he defeated World No. 4 Jonatan Christie in straight games, marking his first win over the Indonesian star. Earlier, he overcame World No. 7 Li Shi Feng and also registered a solid win against Chin Yu Jen.

The reigning US Open Super 300 champion has showcased consistency, confidence, and fearless play throughout the tournament, taking down higher-ranked opponents with authority.

In contrast, India saw mixed fortunes in other categories, with two-time Olympic medallist P. V. Sindhu exiting in the second round and Lakshya Sen bowing out in the opening round.

With the final ahead, Ayush Shetty now stands on the brink of a career-defining achievement, carrying India’s hopes as he looks to cap off his dream run with the biggest title of his career.