India’s badminton scene has seen a surprising decline in 2024, especially in the singles category. Despite a promising start and expectations of breaking into Asian badminton’s elite ranks, India has failed to clinch a singles title in the 29 BWF World Tour tournaments held so far. Unlike the previous year, when India claimed 12 titles across singles and doubles, this year only the men’s doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty has managed to make a mark, winning the titles at the French Open and the Thailand Open.
A striking comparison: 2023 vs 2024
Last year, Indian shuttlers made headlines by winning 12 titles across BWF World Tour tournaments across different categories. But 2024 has not been kind, with India seeing a drastic dip to only two titles—both coming from the same doubles pair, Satwik and Chirag. Indian singles players, including notable names like PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen, and others, have yet to secure a single title this season, with only three tournaments left in the calendar year.
Road ahead: Last few chances in 2024
With only three tournaments left this season, Indian players have a slim chance to make it into the BWF World Tour Finals, scheduled for December in China. Only the top players in the world make it to this final event, known for its high stakes and prize money, approximately Rs 21 crore. Unfortunately, India’s top singles players are lagging in the qualification race.
India’s top shuttlers fall behind in rankings
When it comes to world rankings, India’s singles players are noticeably absent from the Top 10. In men’s singles, Priyanshu Rajawat, with a ranking of 32, is the closest contender for a place in the World Tour Finals, followed by Kiran George at 34 and Lakshya Sen at 35. On the women’s side, Malvika Bansod is the top-ranked Indian player at 31, while Aakarshi Kashyap and PV Sindhu follow at 33rd and 34th, respectively. With ranking points crucial for qualification, these positions reflect the steep climb needed to reach the World Tour Finals.
The quest for qualification: Will Indian players make It?
The BWF World Tour Finals, known for its fierce competition, is the pinnacle of the annual badminton calendar. This year’s finals, set to begin on December 11, will see the top players in the world, as determined by points accrued throughout the season.
The finals have only seen India miss out twice, in 2010 and 2023, and this year might add a third unfortunate instance. Indian players must rise to the challenge in these last few tournaments to make their mark.
Understanding the BWF World Tour finals qualification process
The BWF World Tour consists of 30 tournaments that serve as a ranking system for singles and doubles players. These tournaments are split into five levels: Super 1000, Super 750, Super 500, and Super 300. The Super 1000 level offers the most points, making it crucial for players aiming to qualify for the finals.
Ranking points earned through these tournaments determine which players will advance to the World Tour Finals, with only the top three players and pairs from each category making it through.
Indian Doubles: Satwik and Chirag stand tall
While singles players have struggled, Satwik and Chirag’s performance in men’s doubles has been a rare bright spot in an otherwise challenging year. With victories in the French Open and Thailand Open, they have shown that Indian badminton still has the potential to excel. These two have provided hope for Indian doubles’ success as singles players face setbacks.
The way forward for Indian Badminton
India’s badminton scene is at a crossroads, with promising young talent and experienced players alike struggling in international tournaments. With rankings slipping and fewer titles won, this year has highlighted the need for a strategic overhaul in Indian badminton. As the season nears its end, all eyes are on the remaining tournaments and the chance for redemption on the global stage.
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