Indian men’s doubles stars Satwik Sairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty stormed into the semifinals of the 2025 BWF World Championships, assuring India of a medal and extending the nation’s winning streak at the event since 2011.
The World No. 9 pair secured a commanding straight-sets victory (21-12, 21-19) over their long-time rivals, Malaysia’s Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, on August 29 at Paris’ Adidas Arena.
This victory not only kept their dream of World Championship gold alive but also avenged their previous Olympic loss to the same opponents. Officials and coaches lauded their resilience and tactical brilliance as they prepare for a tough semifinal against Chinese pair Chen Bo Yang and Liu Yi.
Dominant Performance and Sweet Revenge
The match was more than just a quarterfinal contest; for Satwik and Chirag, it was a chance to redeem past heartbreak. The Malaysian pair had dashed India’s Olympic gold hopes just a year prior in Paris, adding an emotional edge to the encounter. The Indian duo started with an aggressive and relentless approach, quickly racing to an 8-2 lead in the first game.
Powerful smashes from Satwik and razor-sharp net interceptions by Chirag kept the Malaysians on the backfoot. They skilfully controlled the tempo, demonstrating superior court coverage and tactical adaptation, with a near-perfect rotation between attacking and defensive roles. Despite a late fightback from Aaron and Soh in the second game, Satwik and Chirag retained their composure, powered by the encouragement of their coach B. Sumeeth Reddy to stay “daring.”
Their ability to hold nerve in key moments sealed the match in a 43-minute display of top-class badminton, marking their second medal at the World Championships after a bronze in 2022.
Journey and Challenges on the Global Stage
Satwik and Chirag’s journey to this stage has been marked by remarkable determination. Previously, they struggled against some of the circuit’s toughest pairs, notably having a losing streak against the Malaysian duo. However, their continued growth was evident as they recently clinched the Thailand Open final against the same Chinese semifinal opponents they will face next.
Their recent victories underline the duo’s evolution into global contenders capable of mixing aggressive play with strategic resilience. This run is also a testament to the growing stature of Indian badminton internationally, with consistent medal hauls at top-tier global events inspiring future generations of Indian athletes.
Their upcoming semifinal promises another challenging test as they seek to reach the final and possibly win India’s first men’s doubles World Championship gold.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This awe-inspiring achievement by Satwik and Chirag embodies perseverance, unity, and national pride, illustrating how sport transcends cultural and social barriers to unite people. The Logical Indian commends their grit and spirit, which serve as powerful reminders of the positive impact of sportsmanship in fostering empathy and mutual respect. As this duo continues their pursuit of excellence on the world stage, they not only elevate Indian badminton but also provide a beacon of hope and inspiration.
THE WINNING MOMENTS FOR SATCHI 🤩🔥
— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) August 29, 2025
– Confirmed 2nd Medal at World Championships! 🎖️
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