New Delhi: For Chirag Shetty, the bronze medal at the World Badminton Championships in Paris felt like “redemption.” The city that once brought heartbreak at the Olympics has now given him and partner Satwiksairaj Rankireddy a reason to celebrate.
The world No. 9 men’s doubles pair clinched bronze after defeating Malaysia’s two-time Olympic medallists Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik in the quarterfinals. The victory, their second World Championships medal, ended a streak of losses to the Malaysian duo, including the painful Olympic exit on the very same court last year.
“Beating Aaron and Soh in straight games was special. It showed that if we play the right tactics, we can beat anyone. More than the medal, it felt like redemption for last year’s Olympics,” Chirag told PTI.
Their dream run, however, ended in the semifinals with a loss to China’s Chen Bo Yang and Liu Yi. Despite leading 11-6 in the first game, the Indians faltered in the decider after slipping to 1-9. Chirag admitted their eagerness at the net backfired against China’s smart flick serves.
The medal places Satwik-Chirag alongside Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu as the only Indians with multiple World Championships medals. “It feels really special joining that league, especially after such a tough year on and off the court,” Chirag said.
Since the Olympics, Satwik has battled back and elbow injuries, a personal tragedy with his father’s passing, and a bout of chickenpox. Chirag too struggled with recurring back issues. “We’ve not been able to train at 100 per cent. It’s been slow and steady, but we’re on the right track,” he said.
The bronze also extended India’s streak of podium finishes at the World Championships since 2011. “Overall, it was a good campaign for India. Special mention to Prannoy, who almost beat the world No. 2,” Chirag added.
Looking ahead, the pair’s immediate goal is regaining peak fitness. “First, we want to be physically at our best. Then, the aim is to reach a final and hopefully win. For this year, we’re targeting the World Tour Finals and want to go as deep as possible,” Chirag said.
