Indian badminton duo Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand successfully defended their women’s doubles title at the Syed Modi International 2025 in Lucknow, defeating Japan’s 8th-seeded pair Kaho Osawa and Mai Tanabe 17-21, 21-13, 21-15 in a thrilling 74-minute final.
Despite dropping the first game, the resilient Indian pair staged a strong comeback. The victory adds crucial world ranking points and marks an important milestone in their partnership, which has grown stronger especially after Gayatri’s recent injury comeback.
Comeback and Tactical Mastery
The Syed Modi International Super 300 tournament showcased Treesa and Gayatri’s exceptional skill and composure. After losing the first set 17-21, the Indians adjusted tactics, controlling rally pace with strategic push drops and net play.
Treesa’s agility and precise overhead strokes combined with Gayatri’s net aggression helped seal the next two sets decisively. Midway through the final set, Treesa broke her racquet yet maintained focus, crucially helping the pair keep a narrow lead against spirited Japanese resistance.
Significance for Indian Badminton
This title defence underscores India’s growing strength in women’s doubles badminton on the global stage. As the first Indian doubles team to win a BWF World Tour title this year, their success inspires emerging talent and contributes momentum for upcoming major competitions. Officials and fans praised their grit and team chemistry, seeing it as a positive sign for India’s ambitions in international badminton.
Syed Modi International 2025
The Syed Modi International 2025, held from November 25 to 30 at the Babu Banarasi Das Indoor Stadium in Lucknow, is a prestigious BWF Super 300 badminton tournament.
With total prize money of $240,000, it attracts some of the top international and Indian players competing across Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles categories.
The tournament provides vital ranking points and is a key stop on the global badminton circuit, enhancing India’s prominence in the sport. This year, Lucknow played host to thrilling matches with a record Indian contingent, energising fans nationwide.
Treesa Jolly’s Journey
Treesa Jolly is a dynamic Indian badminton player known for her agility, tactical versatility, and aggressive net play, especially in doubles formats. Her partnership with Gayatri Gopichand has been marked by resilience and a sharp understanding of controlling the pace during matches.
Treesa’s ability to mix powerful smashes with delicate drops and dropshots makes her a formidable and adaptive player. She recently overcame the challenge of a racquet string break mid-match yet maintained composure to secure a critical victory. Treesa’s confidence and consistent performance make her an integral part of India’s badminton future.
Gayatri Gopichand’s Journey
Gayatri Gopichand, daughter of veteran shuttler Pullela Gopichand, has carved a niche as an astute doubles player with commendable net skills and tactical intelligence. After returning from a shoulder injury, she has shown renewed vigor, charging the net effectively and supporting strong court coverage.
Gayatri’s patience combined with precise, measured aggression provides balance to her duo with Treesa. Her contributions in the women’s doubles have boosted India’s international standing, with performances lauded for strategic play and synergy. Gayatri continues to inspire as a role model for aspiring Indian sportswomen.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian celebrates the tenacity and teamwork displayed by Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, highlighting the importance of resilience and tactical intelligence in sports. Their journey exemplifies how determination through adversity, including injury setbacks, can lead to glory.
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