The legacy of Indian badminton spans decades rather than just years. Since Dinesh Khanna’s victory in 1965, no Indian male player has clinched the Badminton Asia Championships singles title. However, in Ningbo on Sunday, Ayush Shetty, a rising star who surprised many with his performance, stands on the brink of ending this 61-year drought.
Shetty’s final challenge comes in the form of China’s Shi Yu Qi, the World No. 2. Despite Shetty trailing in their head-to-head encounters 0-2, their recent match at the Malaysia Open showcased Shetty’s potential as he pushed Shi Yu Qi to a thrilling three-game battle.
The men’s singles final between Ayush Shetty and Shi Yu Qi is scheduled to commence in Ningbo at approximately 3:30 pm local time, 1 pm IST. Viewers can watch the live-streaming of the match on Badminton Asia’s Facebook page, as there will be no broadcast of the event in India.
Ayush Shetty’s journey to the final has been marked by victories over elite players such as Li Shi Feng and Jonathan Christie. However, it was his semifinal triumph over the reigning World No. 1, Kunlavut Vitidsarn, that turned heads with his display of resilience and skill on the court.
Coach Vimal Kumar praised Shetty’s mental fortitude and composure during critical moments, emphasizing his growth as a player. This resurgence follows a period of setbacks due to injury earlier in the year, with Shetty now showcasing a blend of physical prowess and mental strength.
Shetty’s performance has impressed two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu, who sees him as a generational talent with immense potential. With a style reminiscent of his idol Viktor Axelsen, Shetty’s defensive abilities and powerful smashes have been key to his success in the tournament.
In the final showdown against Shi Yu Qi, Shetty faces a test of his defensive skills and attacking prowess. While Shi boasts a formidable record, Shetty’s recent victories have proven his ability to compete at the highest level. The final in Ningbo could mark the arrival of Ayush Shetty as a world-class contender in the badminton arena.