Ayush Shetty produced the biggest win of his career, stunning World No. 1 Kunlavut Vitidsarn to storm into the final of the Badminton Asia Championships 2026. The 20-year-old Indian came from a game down to seal a memorable 10-21, 21-19, 21-17 victory in Ningbo on Saturday.
Facing the Paris 2024 silver medallist, Shetty was pushed onto the back foot early, losing the opening game comfortably. But what followed was a display of composure and belief, as the youngster gradually turned the contest around, matching Vitidsarn point for point before taking control in the decider.
The win marks a historic moment for Indian badminton. After beating Vitidsarn, Shetty became only the second Indian after Dinesh Khanna in 1965 to reach the men’s singles final at the continental event. He had already secured a medal by reaching the semi-finals, becoming the first Indian men’s singles player since HS Prannoy in 2018 to achieve the feat.
India’s last medal at the event had come in 2023 when Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won the men’s doubles title.
Ayush, the reigning US Open Super 300 champion, will now face either Chou Tien Chen or Shi Yuqi in the summit clash.
Shetty’s journey through the tournament has been nothing short of remarkable. Ranked World No. 25, he has taken down some of the biggest names on the circuit to reach the final.
He began with a dominant win over World No. 7 Li Shi Feng, before beating Chin Yu Jen in the next round. His quarter-final victory over World No. 4 Jonatan Christie was another statement performance, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure.
With early exits for Lakshya Sen and PV Sindhu, Shetty has carried India’s hopes deep into the tournament. His run has not only ensured a medal but also signalled the arrival of a new force in Indian men’s singles badminton.
Source: India Today