NEW DELHI: Young Indian shuttler Ayush Shetty fell short of clinching the title, going down to China’s Shi Yu Qi in the final of the Badminton Asia Championships. His dream run came to an end with an 8-21, 10-21 defeat against the World No. 2.Earlier, Ayush had scripted history by becoming the first Indian in 61 years to reach a men’s singles final of the Badminton Asia Championships, ending a long wait since Dinesh Khanna’s run in 1965. He stunned Paris 2024 silver medalist Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the semifinals.The 20-year-old launched his Badminton Asia Championships campaign with a statement straight-game win over China’s world No. 7 Li Shi Feng in the opening round, setting the tone for an impressive run.In the Round of 16, Shetty maintained his momentum with another straight-game victory over Chinese Taipei’s Chi Yu Jen, displaying control and consistency.The turning point came in the quarterfinals, where he edged past Indonesia’s world No. 4 Jonathan Christie in a tight contest. The win ensured India’s first medal at the tournament and highlighted his ability to deliver under pressure.Shetty then produced his biggest performance in the semifinals, rallying from a game down to defeat world No. 1 and defending champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn in three games. The victory not only sealed his place in the final but also made him the first Indian men’s singles player in over six decades to reach the summit clash.Across the tournament, the youngster defeated three top-10 players – Li Shi Feng, Jonatan Christie and Kunlavut Vitidsarn – in a remarkable giant-killing run that showcased his attacking flair and growing composure on the big stage.
