Ningbo, China : In one of the standout results of the Badminton Asia Championships, Ayush Shetty produced a sensational performance to defeat world No. 1 Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the semifinals and book his place in the men’s singles final.
At just 20 years of age, Shetty has become the first Indian male shuttler to reach the final of this prestigious continental event since Dinesh Khanna, who won the title in 1965. The result guarantees India at least a silver medal and places Shetty on the brink of a historic achievement.
Thrilling Semifinal Turnaround
The semifinal unfolded as a gripping three-game contest. Kunlavut began strongly, taking the opening game comfortably as Shetty struggled initially to read the Thai star’s deceptive net play and rhythm.
The momentum shifted in the second game. Shetty built a commanding 20–14 lead but briefly allowed Kunlavut to close the gap to 20–19. Holding his nerve in a tense moment, Shetty produced a decisive down-the-line smash to level the match.
In the deciding game, it became a test of endurance and composure. While Kunlavut appeared tense at key stages, Shetty — despite visible fatigue — relied on steep, powerful down-the-line smashes and cleverly directed half-smashes to the forehand to take control and turn the match in his favour.
Final Score: 10–21, 21–19, 21–17.
Shetty Shares His Thoughts
Speaking after the match, Shetty shared a few words with Sports Science India, reflecting on how the contest unfolded and the mindset that helped him prevail in crucial moments:
“Kunlavut took the first game comfortably, and I was looking a bit sluggish. I was struggling to read the deceptive strokes from the net.”
“In the second game, after building a strong lead at 20–14, I showed a touch of anxiety and allowed it to narrow to 20–19. But I responded with a decisive down-the-line smash to close out the game.”
“In the decider, Kunlavut seemed tense while I felt physically exhausted. Yet, my steep, powerful down-the-line smashes and well-directed half-smashes to his forehand proved decisive and completely turned the match in my favour.”
“What stands out most for me is the composure. I think I handled the pressure situations remarkably well.”
These reflections highlight not only his tactical clarity but also the mental resilience that defined his performance against the world’s top-ranked player.
Final Awaits
Shetty will now compete in the men’s singles final on Sunday, April 12, where he will face the winner of the other semifinal between Shi Yuqi and Chou Tien-chen.
A victory in the final would see Shetty become the first Indian man in over six decades to win the Badminton Asia Championships singles crown.
With this historic semifinal victory, Ayush Shetty has already etched his name alongside Dinesh Khanna in Indian badminton history — now standing just one match away from an even greater milestone.
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