The highs and lows of sport are often cruelly intertwined, but for Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, India’s ace men’s doubles badminton pair, the rollercoaster of 2024 only served as the prelude to a promising 2025. After enduring heartbreak at the Paris Olympics and a string of tough losses last year, the duo has opened the new season with a revitalising semifinal berth at the Malaysia Super 1000—signalling their intent to dominate once again.
It’s not just a result; it’s a statement.
The Wounds of 2024
Last year was bittersweet for Satwik-Chirag. While they won the French Open and bagged their second Asian Games gold, they fell agonisingly short in several major events, including the India Open, Malaysia Open, and the Paris Olympics. At Porte de la Chapelle Arena during the Games, they carried the weight of a nation’s expectations as India’s best-ever men’s doubles pair, only to falter in the quarterfinals despite a dream start.
The loss to Malaysia’s Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik was particularly stinging. After winning the first game convincingly, they lost steam in the next two, undone by their opponents’ brilliance in high-pressure moments. For Satwik, recovering from a shoulder injury, and Chirag, India’s defensive linchpin, the year ended on a note of reflection rather than celebration.
Turning the Page in 2025
With the calendar flipped, Satwik and Chirag appear rejuvenated and ready to reclaim their spot among badminton’s elite. Their emphatic performance in Kuala Lumpur at the Malaysia Super 1000 has reasserted their resilience. Facing Malaysia’s Yew Sin Ong and Ee Yi Teo in the quarterfinals, the Indians showed remarkable composure under pressure, winning the first game 26-24 despite a late surge from their opponents. The second game was a masterclass in adaptability, as they rallied from behind to seal the match 21-15.
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Reflecting on their performance, they said, “Great start to the year, we couldn’t have started on a better note. We want to go as deep in the tournament as possible.” (Sources – BAI)
Why the Super 1000 Matters
Badminton fans know the significance of a Super 1000 event, but its importance goes beyond mere ranking points. These tournaments, the highest tier outside the World Championships and Olympics, are the proving grounds for elite players. Winning here cements legacies and builds momentum for the gruelling season ahead.
For India, victories in these marquee events are vital to popularising doubles badminton, which has long been overshadowed by singles. Satwik-Chirag’s rise, therefore, represents a broader shift. Their success inspires young players to take up doubles with the same zeal as singles.
The Road Ahead
As Satwik and Chirag prepare for their semifinal clash against South Korea’s formidable pair of Won Ho Kim and Seo Seung-jae, their focus remains on maintaining consistency. Their ability to thrive in packed arenas, even with crowds overwhelmingly cheering for local favourites, is a testament to their professional maturity.
These early signs suggest that 2025 could well be the year of Satwik-Chirag. From their tactical improvements to their unwavering mental fortitude, they’ve laid a strong foundation for the season ahead. For Indian badminton fans and casual observers alike, their journey is a story worth following—not just for the wins but for the spirit they embody.
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