Meet Ayush Shetty: The 20-Year-Old Who Shocked World No. 1 to Reach Asia Championships Final

New Delhi: At just 20, Ayush Shetty is quickly becoming one of the most exciting names in international badminton. His latest feat—a stunning victory over World No. 1 Kunlavut Vitidsarn at the Badminton Asia Championships—has firmly placed him in the spotlight.

Playing at the Ningbo Olympic Sports Centre, the young Indian showcased grit and maturity beyond his years. After dropping the opening game 10-21, Shetty fought back brilliantly to win the next two games 21-19 and 21-17 in a thrilling contest that lasted over an hour. His sharp tactical play and confident net game proved decisive against the Thai star, signaling his readiness to compete with the very best.

This victory not only secured him a place in the final but also marked a significant milestone for Indian badminton. Shetty became the first Indian men’s singles player since HS Prannoy in 2018 to reach the podium at the Badminton Asia Championships. His earlier win over World No. 4 Jonathan Christie in the quarter-finals further highlighted his rapid rise.

Hailing from Sanoor, a small town near Karkala in Karnataka, Shetty’s journey began in his backyard, where he first picked up a racket under his father’s guidance at the age of eight. Recognizing his potential, his family later moved to Bengaluru, where he trained at the prestigious Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy. There, he refined his speed, reflexes, and attacking style.

His breakthrough came last year when he clinched the US Open title, defeating Brian Yang in straight games. The win made him the first Indian to secure a BWF World Tour title in 2025. Since then, he has continued to impress, including notable victories over top players like Li Shi Feng and Chin Yu Jen.

Even as a junior, Shetty showed glimpses of his potential. He won bronze at the 2023 World Junior Championships in Spokane, claimed the Denmark Junior International title in 2021, and finished runner-up at several tournaments including the Odisha Masters Super 100 (2023), Bahrain International Challenge (2023), and Dutch Open (2024).

Known for his aggressive gameplay, precise shot selection, and calm temperament, Ayush Shetty represents the new wave of Indian badminton talent. From humble beginnings in a small town to defeating world champions, his journey is both inspiring and promising.

With his current form and fearless approach, Shetty isn’t just winning matches—he’s announcing himself as a future global star and a strong contender to lead Indian badminton into its next era.

With inputs from IANS