The Electrifying Ascent of Ayush Shetty: India’s New Badminton Sensation Dominates US Open
There’s a raw, visceral thrill in men’s singles badminton when a player unleashes a truly devastating smash. India’s latest breakthrough talent, Ayush Shetty, standing tall at 6’4″, possesses precisely this kind of weapon. His coach, Vimal Kumar, aptly describes it as an “absolute bullet.” Much like the formidable Viktor Axelsen, and to a significant extent, players such as Li Shifeng and Lee Zii Jia, the Mangalorean prodigy wields a downward hit that can utterly dismantle an opponent’s game.
Shetty’s Blistering US Open Victory in Council Bluffs
Late on a Sunday in Council Bluffs, Iowa, the 20-year-old Ayush Shetty clinched the US Open title, outmaneuvering Canada’s dynamic Brian Yang in straight games: 21-18, 21-13. Yang, known for his aggressive jump smashes, threw everything he had at Shetty. Yet, with a remarkable calm, Shetty absorbed the pressure, defended resolutely, and then, with a full-blooded cross-court magnum smash, extinguished all resistance from his deflated opponent. The sheer power and precision were breathtaking.
A “Bullet” Smash That Terrifies Top Opponents
Shetty’s coaching staff is unequivocal: this imperious attacking prowess, especially that “bullet” smash, is set to send shivers down the spines of many established players. They believe he’s on the verge of consistently challenging and troubling the sport’s biggest names. Vimal Kumar asserts, “He can beat any player. With his game, he has nothing to fear.” He also notes that many Asian competitors, including those from China, Korea, and Malaysia, often find themselves vulnerable when confronted with such a formidable power-attack, drawing parallels to the dominant force of Viktor Axelsen.
Unstoppable Momentum: Beating Badminton’s Elite
The US Open wasn’t just a single triumph; it was a testament to Ayush Shetty’s meteoric rise. En route to the final, he showcased his ability to conquer bonafide Top Tenners. He had already secured impressive victories over former world champion Loh Kean Yew and fellow Indian star Kidambi Srikanth. In the semi-finals in Iowa, he decisively took down the experienced Chou Tien Chen, underscoring his readiness to compete at the highest level.
The Strategic Brilliance Behind the Power
While the “bullet” smash garners significant attention, it’s Ayush Shetty’s evolving strategic play that truly elevates his game. In his earlier years, he was known for more impulsive hitting. Now, however, he judiciously unleashes his powerful shots at crucial junctures. Against Brian Yang, a pivotal moment arrived when the first game was tied at 18-18. Shetty unleashed an overhead cross-court smash that traveled the diagonal length of the court with incredible speed and dip.
Coach Sagar Chopda explains the psychological impact: “When he hits that forehand cross-court, the opponent knows it’s coming, but can do nothing. They just can’t take it.” This defining shot was even delivered on championship point, showcasing Shetty’s confidence in his most dangerous weapon. The usually vibrant Yang looked visibly deflated, unable to counter the onslaught.
Beyond the Smash: A Developing All-Round Game
What makes Ayush Shetty such an exciting prospect for Indian badminton extends beyond his raw power. His net-play is remarkably sturdy, often serving as his ‘A-game.’ He skillfully creates opportunities and foments chaos among opponents through his variations and technically precise net-play. This area, in fact, is very much his “stomping ground.”
Previously, opponents might have exploited his commitment to the net by lobbing over him. However, Vimal Kumar notes a significant improvement: “Now he’s learnt to push them back and open up the court and is confident from the back court. His defence is greatly improved and his strength in longer rallies, where he struggled earlier, has gone up.” While his smash finishes points 60-70% of the time due to his long-levered range and fast pace, Vimal does have one minor quibble: “On cross-smashes, he has winners. On straight ones, he can work more to find the lines.”
Adapting and Overcoming Challenges
Shetty’s continuous evolution is key. When faced with consistent lobbing, a tactic Toma Jr Popov recently employed to defeat him, Shetty has shown remarkable adaptability. Vimal Kumar highlights his response: “Like HS Prannoy, when the opponent flicks him, he has developed a very good backhand whip and a drive that travels at speed.” This adaptability, coupled with taking charge of the net, makes him increasingly difficult to counter. Even against a compulsive retriever like Brian Yang, who tried to exploit Shetty’s forehand after peppering his backhand, the Indian star displayed improved percentages against defensive opponents.
Navigating Fame: A Focus on Future Glory
The US Open title marked a significant milestone for Indian badminton, being the first major win after HS Prannoy’s Malaysia title and coming within weeks of Kidambi Srikanth reaching a Tour final. This success naturally brings attention, and Shetty’s parents, based in Bengaluru, found themselves courted by various agencies eager to secure lucrative contracts.
However, coach Vimal Kumar offered a crucial perspective, drawing from past experiences. “I’ve seen too many young players getting carried away by all this,” he stated. He strongly advised Shetty’s family to defer any contracts and maintain an unwavering focus on his game. With his tournament and travel expenses covered, and a monthly scholarship from Indian Oil, the immediate financial pressures are managed. “Next one year, he has to achieve one thing – focus on badminton and get into the Top 10,” Vimal emphasized, urging them to resist temptations that could derail his career.
Ayush Shetty’s powerful attack is no longer just a potential threat; it’s a looming force, ready to explode onto the highest echelons of world badminton. The journey has just begun, and the badminton world watches with anticipation.
