India’s Thrilling Start at BWF World Championships 2026
In an exciting return to hosting the BWF World Championships after 17 years, India kicked off the event with a perfect opening day in New Delhi, where all five Indian players tasted victory. Among the standout performances, one match captured the limelight.
Ayush Shetty, just 21 years old and competing in his first World Championships, electrified the home crowd by defeating World No. 1 and reigning champion Shi Yuqi in an intense three-game match at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium. This victory was more than just a win; it marked an impressive debut for Shetty on the international stage, especially as he had previously lost to Shi three times.
The Indian shuttler showcased remarkable skill, including powerful smashes and a disciplined defense. Even when the match became challenging, Shetty maintained his composure, proving he has the potential to shine at this level.
On a day where India celebrated a flawless 5-0 record, Shetty’s achievement stood out, filling the crowd with the hope that this World Championships might lead to something extraordinary. Interestingly, there is a historical note tied to Shetty’s upset victory—no unseeded player had defeated the men’s singles World No. 1 in the first round of the championships since Loh Kean Yew did it in 2021, eventually winning the title.
Shetty’s Stellar Performance
Known for his ability to pull off surprises, Ayush Shetty delivered a remarkable performance that left the audience in awe. After the match, he expressed his feelings: “I feel great. It’s a really special win, and I’m happy with how I played today.” His humble celebration reflected his relief following the considerable pressure of the moment.
Ayush had been encouraged during training in Bengaluru to write a note stating that August 17 would be a tough day for Shi Yuqi, and he certainly made it a reality. Starting the match with high energy, Shetty quickly seized control, winning a lengthy early rally that set the tone.
With his towering 6-foot-4 frame, Shetty unleashed powerful smashes, cleverly using his height to dictate the match’s rhythm. However, after leading in the first game, he faced challenges in the second, as Shi took advantage and pushed the match to a decisive game.
Maintaining Composure Under Pressure
In the final game, Ayush returned to the favorable side of the court, displaying great patience and waiting for the right opportunities to strike. He gained an impressive lead at 11-5, and even though Shi made a comeback, Shetty remained focused. Despite a brief medical timeout to address a minor injury, he managed to fend off Shi’s efforts and clinched the match 21-14, 13-21, 21-19, marking his first win over Shi.
“It was nerve-wracking as he caught up, and I was just telling myself to stay calm,” Ayush said, visibly relieved after the win. His ability to manage the pressure highlighted his growth as a player.
Sindhu Shines in the Spotlight
Earlier in the day, former champion PV Sindhu also made headlines by starting her quest for a sixth World Championships medal with a strong victory against Ireland’s Sophia Noble. Playing her first World Championship match at home, she won in just 29 minutes, scoring 21-7, 21-11.
Sindhu quickly took charge of her match, establishing an early lead and maintaining control throughout. The experienced player acknowledged feeling nervous before the match but managed to stay composed and perform well.
Both Ayush Shetty and PV Sindhu will continue their campaigns in the second round on Wednesday.
Solid Doubles Performances
The opening day was impressive even before the singles matches began, as India’s men’s doubles team of MR Arjun and Hariharan Amsakarunan progressed after their Irish opponents retired from the match. The women’s doubles team of Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly also advanced comfortably, winning their match 21-9, 21-13.
India also saw success from debutants Kavipriya Selvam and Simran Singhi, who fought back to secure their place in the second round.
The day concluded with the women’s singles top seed, Olympic champion An Se-young, overcoming an injury to win her match decisively, ensuring another promising outlook for the competition.
Key Results from Day 1
Men’s Singles
- Ayush Shetty (India) bt 1-Shi Yuqi (China) 21-14, 13-21, 21-19
- Yushi Tanaka (Japan) bt 16-Weng Hong Yang (China) 21-17, 21-14
- 4-Anders Antonsen (Denmark) bt Dicky Dwi Pangestu (Malaysia) 21-19, 21-17
- 10-Kodai Naraoka (Japan) bt Chi Yu Jen (Chinese Taipei) 21-16, 7-21, 21-12
Women’s Singles
- 1-An Se-young (Korea) bt Kaloyana Nalbantova (Bulgaria) 21-14, 21-13
- 5-Han Yue (China) bt Kirsty Gilmour (Scotland) 20-22, 21-13, 21-13
- 3-Wang Zhi Yi (China) bt Beiwen Zhang (USA) 21-12, 21-13
- 9-PV Sindhu (India) bt Sophia Noble (Ireland) 21-7, 21-11
Men’s Doubles
- MR Arjun/Hariharan Amsakarunan (India) bt Scott Guildea/Paul Reynolds (Ireland) 21-16, 6-4 (retired hurt)
- Alexander Dunn/Adam Pringle (Scotland) bt Chaloempon Charoenkitamorn/Worrapol Thongsa-Nga (Thailand) 21-10, 21-19
Women’s Doubles
- Treesa Jolly/Gayatri Gopichand (India) bt Paula Lopez/Lucia Rodriguez (Spain) 21-9, 21-13
- Kavipriya Selvam/Simran Singhi (India) bt Nikol Carulla/Carmen Maria Jimenez (Spain) 22-20, 21-14
The excitement in Delhi marks a strong start for Indian badminton as players look forward to further successes in the tournament.
