Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty (X Photo)
New Delhi: Former world number one duo Satwiksraj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty returned to the winner’s circle in style, scripting history with a thrilling victory to claim their maiden title at the Singapore Open on Sunday.The Indian duo came from behind to defeat Indonesians Fajr Alfian and Mohd Shohibul Fikri 18-21, 21-17, 21-16 in a thrilling men’s doubles final at the BWF Super 750. The win not only ended a frustrating two-year wait for the title, but also made them the first Indian duo to win the doubles title at the prestigious Singapore Open.For Satwik and Chirag, the victory marked their ninth World Tour title and third Super 750 crown, confirming their status as one of the most successful doubles combinations that Indian badminton has produced.
The long wait is finally overThe Asian Games and Commonwealth Games champion has not lifted a trophy since winning the Thailand Open in 2024. Since then, they have had a string of near misses, finishing as runners-up in four finals.Finally, this drought ended in Singapore after a week in which they showed resilience and quality. The win was made all the more sweet considering they entered the final with a 1-2 head-to-head record against the Indonesian pair, including a defeat at the Malaysian Open earlier this year.
The Indians also arrived at the summit showdown high on confidence after stunning world champions and top seeds Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae in the semifinals.
The comeback is built on composure and strengthThe final started off shaky for the Indians as Alfian and Fikri prevailed in a close opening match. Satwik and Chirag had a slight lead midway through the game, but crucial errors late in the game allowed the Indonesians to seize the initiative.Faced with the prospect of another painful final defeat, the Indian duo responded brilliantly.They increased their intensity in the second match, attacking with greater purpose and dominating the counter-attack. Chirag’s sharp interceptions at the net combined with Satwik’s powerful shots helped tie the game and change the momentum.The deciding match produced the best badminton from the Indians. They took an early lead and maintained control despite heavy fighting from the Indonesians.
As the pressure mounted, Satwik’s powerful strokes provided the answers as the duo moved steadily towards victory.With five match points in hand, the Indians briefly faced a red flag from the referee, but it didn’t matter. On the next point, Alfian sent his return into the net, sparking scenes of jubilation.As the team got the winning point, Chirag collapsed on the field in joy and celebration. Satwik followed this up with a child-themed move before the pair hugged and danced on the field, reveling in the victory that took two years to come.