Ayush Shetty Shines at Badminton Asia Championships with Silver Medal

Ayush Shetty, a rising star in Indian badminton, recently clinched a silver medal at the Badminton Asia Championships in China. His journey included impressive victories over top-ranked players, earning him praise from legends like PV Sindhu. As he prepares for his debut in the Thomas Cup, Shetty reflects on his experiences and aspirations, showcasing the potential of India's badminton talent. Discover more about his remarkable performances and future goals in this exciting story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 14, 2026, 02:16 IST

Ayush Shetty's Remarkable Journey

Indian badminton player Ayush Shetty recently made headlines by winning a silver medal at the Badminton Asia Championships in China. His impressive performances throughout the tournament left a mark, earning him accolades from senior players, including two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu, and setting the stage for his upcoming debut in the Thomas Cup.

In the final, Shetty faced off against world number two Shi Yu Qi. Despite the loss, he made history by becoming only the second Indian to reach the men's singles final, following Dinesh Khanna's achievement in 1965.

Impressive Tournament Performance

The 20-year-old shuttler showcased his skills in several challenging matches. His first significant test came against world number seven Li Shi Feng, whom he defeated in straight games, 21-13, 21-16. Advancing to the semifinals, he triumphed over Olympian Jonatan Christie, ranked fourth globally, with a score of 23-21, 21-17, demonstrating remarkable composure under pressure.

In the semifinals, Shetty pulled off a stunning upset against world number one Kunlavut Vitidsarn, winning 21-19, 21-17 after losing the first game. This victory highlighted his potential and resilience, even as he ultimately fell short in the final.

Reflections on His Performance

After securing the silver medal, Ayush expressed his pride in representing India, stating, "Winning a medal for my country is always special. I am happy with my performance throughout the tournament, even though I aimed for gold." He acknowledged that Shi Yu Qi played strategically, limiting his ability to dominate the net.

Shetty emphasized the importance of competing against top players, viewing it as an opportunity to prove himself. "Playing against the best is a challenge I relish, and it motivates me to elevate my game," he remarked.

Inspired by Family and Legends

Ayush's passion for badminton ignited at the age of eight, inspired by watching his father play. He aspires to represent India at the highest levels and dreams of winning prestigious medals for his country.

His achievements have garnered praise from PV Sindhu, who referred to him as a "generational talent." Ayush appreciates the guidance he has received from established players like Lakshya Sen and Viktor Axelsen, learning valuable lessons about mental strength and training intensity.

Looking Ahead to the Thomas Cup

Ayush has been selected for India's squad in the upcoming Thomas and Uber Cup, aiming to contribute to India's quest for a second men's title, four years after their historic victory against Indonesia in 2022. He expressed excitement about playing alongside renowned players like Lakshya, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, and Chirag Shetty, stating, "The team is strong, and we are determined to bring the trophy home."