Shuttler Ayush Shetty clinches US Open Super 300 title

Bengaluru: Indian shuttler Ayush Shetty was on cloud nine after securing the US Open Super 300 title in Iowa, USA, on Sunday. Almost 8,500km away in India, it was nearly 3 am on Monday when the Karnataka player, who had just won his maiden BWF title, dialled his father Ramprakash Shetty who was patiently waiting for the call from his son. The victory was a big one not only for the Shetty's, but a much-needed title for India whose top shuttlers have been in poor form this year.

At a time when stars like PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy have struggled, Ayush has given new hope to Indian fans. It was the first international singles title won by an Indian this year. In the process, Ayush, a bronze medallist in the 2023 World junior championships, has announced his arrival on the big stage.

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His 21-18, 21-13 win over Canada’s Brian Yang in the final might look straightforward, but it was a case of grit and persistence during the 47minute clash. Ayush, a product of the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy (PPBA) here, even brushed off a cut on his right knee after a fall in the opening game. Despite some bleeding — he dismissed it as “nothing major, just a scratch” — the 20-year-old Indian kept his focus and found the way to his first senior title.

“This title means a lot, feels great to win my first one. I hope to deliver this form in the remainder of the season and grab more titles. This will act as a confidence booster for me,” Ayush told TOI before boarding the flight to Canada, where he will be back in action on Tuesday.

Ayush, who is an attacking player with a solid net game, found it tough to begin with as his ploy did not help him score points in the early exchanges. There was a serious need for him to outthink Yang’s strong defence. With the first game going neck-and-neck for the first 12 points, Ayush tweaked it a little, using his half smashes and drops to take a 13-7 lead and eventually won the game. The 6’ 4” player carried on the momentum into the second game to grab a 7-2 lead. He then powered his way to the title despite Yang attempting a comeback midway into the second game.