Sky-High Smash: 6ft 4in Ayush Shetty Soars to US Open 2025 Title, Heralds New Era for Indian Badminton

Ayush Shetty, India’s towering 20-year-old badminton sensation, has clinched his first senior BWF World Tour title at the US Open Super 300 in Council Bluffs, Iowa—defeating Canada’s Brian Yang in straight sets, 21-18, 21-13. The 6ft 4in Karnataka native, trained at the Prakash Padukone Academy, is now being hailed as the next big hope for Indian men’s singles, drawing comparisons to Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen.

 

Shetty’s win ended India’s title drought on the senior tour in 2025 and showcased his aggressive style, sharp net play, and resilience, especially after a gritty semi-final against Chou Tien Chen. Despite a minor knee injury, Shetty powered through with blistering smashes and tactical finesse.

 

Born in 2005, Shetty began playing at age 8 and has steadily risen through the ranks, with past podium finishes at the World Junior Championships and Odisha Masters. His US Open triumph signals a generational shift in Indian badminton.

 

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Sources: India Today, Financial Express, Indian Express