Ayush Shetty Shocks World No. 1 to Reach Badminton Asia Championships Final

Ayush Shetty has made headlines by defeating World No. 1 Kunlavut Vitidsarn in a thrilling semifinal at the Badminton Asia Championships. After losing the first game, Shetty showcased remarkable resilience and tactical adjustments to secure a comeback victory. This win not only propels him into the finals but also marks a significant milestone in Indian badminton history, as he becomes only the second Indian to reach the men's singles final at this prestigious event. Discover more about this incredible match and its implications for Shetty's career.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 11, 2026, 16:40 IST

A Remarkable Upset in Badminton

Indian badminton player Ayush Shetty delivered an outstanding performance by defeating the top-ranked Kunlavut Vitidsarn, securing his place in the final of the Badminton Asia Championships held in Ningbo on Saturday.

Resilience and Tactical Shift

In a thrilling semifinal match, Shetty showcased incredible resilience after losing the first game. He made a strong comeback, winning with scores of 10-21, 21-19, 21-17, demonstrating sharp attacking skills and control during extended rallies.

Vitidsarn's Strong Start

Kunlavut began the match with dominance, utilizing his speed and precision to take control. His effective shot placement and ability to capitalize on Shetty's errors allowed him to win the first game comfortably at 21-10, leading many to believe he would finish the match in straight games.

Shetty's Comeback in the Second Game

However, Shetty displayed remarkable composure in the second game. He adjusted his pace, minimized unforced errors, and matched Kunlavut's intensity from the baseline. This strategic shift proved effective as he narrowly won the second game 21-19, leveling the match and gaining momentum.

The Deciding Game

In the final game, both players engaged in long, physically demanding rallies. Shetty maintained his aggressive approach while also exercising patience during critical moments. At a tense 17-17, he elevated his performance, winning the last four points consecutively to secure a remarkable comeback victory.

A Milestone for Indian Badminton

With this victory, Shetty heads into the final brimming with confidence, having delivered one of the tournament's most impressive performances. This win is historic for Indian badminton, as Shetty becomes only the second Indian, following Dinesh Khanna in 1965, to reach the men's singles final at this prestigious continental event. He also made history by becoming the first Indian men's singles player to reach the semifinals since HS Prannoy in 2018.