Indian Badminton Duo Rankireddy and Shetty Aim for Olympic Glory

Indian Badminton Duo Rankireddy and Shetty Aim for Olympic Glory

Indian Badminton Duo Rankireddy and Shetty Aim for Olympic Glory

Defending Asian and Commonwealth Games champions in men’s doubles, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, embark on their Paris Olympics campaign with high hopes of securing a medal for India. The former World No.1 pair will face the French duo of Lucas Corvee and Ronan Labar in their opening match later today.

Rankireddy and Shetty are considered India’s top medal prospects in badminton, alongside two-time Olympic medalist P.V. Sindhu. Sindhu aims to become the first Indian sportsperson to win medals in three consecutive Olympic Games editions.

Long-jumper Murali Sreeshankar believes that Rankireddy and Shetty have the best chance of returning home with a medal. “We hope they can replicate the performances they have delivered over the last couple of years,” said Sreeshankar, who is an Olympics Expert for JioCinema. “Satwik and Chirag won a gold medal in men’s doubles at the Asian Games, which is much tougher than doing so at the Olympics because, at the Asian Games, you compete against two Chinese teams, whereas, in the Olympics, only the top-16 in world ranking can participate.”

Sreeshankar emphasized the importance of the Asian Games gold medal in boosting the morale of the Indian pair. “They just need to continue doing what they have been doing and concentrate on the process,” he said. “Their track record is so good that if they just focus on the process, I’m sure they will be able to win a medal and be proud of themselves.”

Rankireddy and Shetty have been in impressive form in recent years, winning the India Open and the Thailand Open in 2023. They also reached the semifinals of the All England Open and the World Championships in 2022.

The Indian duo will face stiff competition in Paris, with several top-ranked pairs in the fray. However, their experience and determination will make them a formidable force. If they can maintain their focus and execute their game plan, Rankireddy and Shetty have the potential to create history and bring home an Olympic medal for India.

India's Badminton Contingent Aims for Glory at Paris Olympics 2024

India’s Badminton Contingent Aims for Glory at Paris Olympics 2024

The 2024 Paris Olympics commenced with a spectacular opening ceremony on Friday, marking the beginning of the quadrennial sporting extravaganza. India has sent a contingent of 117 athletes to the Games, with high hopes of securing a significant medal tally.

India’s badminton contingent is led by the illustrious PV Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medalist. The dynamic duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty will also represent India in the men’s doubles category, emerging as strong contenders for the gold medal. India’s badminton campaign commences on Saturday.

Former Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap has identified Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy as the “dark horses” of the team. This is the first time since 2004 that two Indian men will compete in the Olympics. Kashyap believes that both players possess the potential to cause major upsets.

“I think Lakshya and Prannoy are one of the dark horses in the draw. Both of them, especially Lakshya, played the All-England final two years back. During the Olympic qualification, he came out of a tough qualification period. He had a couple of first-round losses, but the way he qualified by making it to two semi-finals and getting good wins against top-level opponents… It shows his caliber,” Kashyap stated.

Kashyap emphasized that both Lakshya and Prannoy have faced adversity and emerged victorious. He highlighted their experience in the Thomas Cup-winning team and their ability to perform in high-pressure matches. “They are capable of anything but are surely the dark horses. They can beat anyone in the draw, be it Li Shi Feng or Victor. I won’t say they are the favorites, but they have a huge chance to create upsets and progress in the tournament,” he added.

PV Sindhu will also be aiming to break her title drought. Kashyap believes that Sindhu, who last won the Commonwealth Games gold in 2022, will be an “underdog” but her opponents will be wary of her credentials. “It’s her third Olympics, she won two medals in the last two Olympics and several world championship medals. So I think she feels she has an edge already even though her ranking doesn’t say it or her recent form doesn’t say it,” said Kashyap.

“In major events, I think the opponents also are a little wary of her even though she’s not in form. I think she’s going as a dark horse and underdog considering the last two years of women’s singles,” he added.

Catch all the live action from Paris 2024 exclusively on JioCinema & Sports18.

Paris Olympics 2024: All Eyes on Neeraj Chopra, PV Sindhu as India Aims for Medal Haul

Paris Olympics 2024: All Eyes on Neeraj Chopra, PV Sindhu as India Aims for Medal Haul

The Paris Olympics, scheduled from July 26 to August 11, 2024, promise to be a spectacle that will captivate the world. With 329 events across 32 sports, including four new additions, the Games will showcase the pinnacle of athleticism and human achievement.

For the first time in Olympic history, the opening ceremony will not take place in a stadium but will instead begin on the river Seine. An armada of boats will carry over 200 delegations of athletes along the river, through the heart of Paris. This unique spectacle will set the stage for an unforgettable Games.

India will be eagerly watching its athletes, including Neeraj Chopra, PV Sindhu, and the Indian archers and men’s hockey team. Chopra, the defending javelin throw champion, will be aiming to retain his title and add to India’s medal tally.

In shooting, India has secured quotas in every Olympic category for the first time. Trap shooter Bhowneesh Mendiratta earned the first quota, but Prithviraj Tondaiman was ultimately selected for the team.

Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, the chief medical officer of the Indian contingent, has assured that the athletes are in prime condition for the Games. “All the athletes going for the Olympics are fit right now,” he said. “They may have minor niggles, but they are all capable and fit enough to compete.”

Prakash Padukone Guides PV Sindhu in Paris Olympics Village

Prakash Padukone Guides PV Sindhu in Paris Olympics Village

Prakash Padukone, the legendary Indian badminton player, is relishing the vibrant atmosphere of the Paris Olympics Village. As part of PV Sindhu’s coaching team, Padukone is sharing the space with some of the biggest names in sports, including Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal.

Padukone’s role in Team Sindhu is primarily tactical. While Agus Dwi Santoso focuses on enhancing Sindhu’s stroke power and variety, Padukone guides her on the strategic deployment of those strokes. He emphasizes the importance of using the right strokes at the right time, a skill he honed during his illustrious career.

Padukone’s association with Sindhu began last year as a mentor. He has since accompanied her to several tournaments, aiming to restore her confidence and rediscover her winning ways. While Sindhu has shown glimpses of her former brilliance, Padukone acknowledges the challenges of transforming her game in a short period.

Despite the time constraints, Padukone is confident in Sindhu’s ability to contend for a medal in Paris. He believes her big-match mentality and unwavering focus on peaking at the right time will serve her well. Sindhu’s impressive medal haul at major tournaments, including silver at the 2016 Rio Games and bronze in Tokyo, further bolsters Padukone’s optimism.

Padukone’s presence in the Village is a testament to his enduring passion for badminton. He is eager to share his knowledge and experience with Sindhu and help her achieve her Olympic dreams. The camaraderie and shared experiences within the Village are also a source of inspiration for Padukone, who is embracing the spirit of the Games.

PV Sindhu Eyes Historic Third Olympic Medal in Paris 2024

PV Sindhu Eyes Historic Third Olympic Medal in Paris 2024

PV Sindhu, India’s badminton icon, is determined to make history at the 2024 Paris Olympics by becoming the first Indian to win three consecutive individual Olympic medals. Her journey to the podium has been marked by unwavering focus, relentless effort, and a deep understanding of the sport.

Sindhu’s Olympic debut in Rio 2016 was a resounding success, where she clinched a silver medal in women’s singles. Her performance in Tokyo 2020 was equally impressive, earning her a bronze medal. These achievements have cemented her status as one of the world’s top badminton players.

As she prepares for Paris 2024, Sindhu is drawing inspiration from her past experiences. She recognizes the immense competition she will face, but her determination remains unshaken. “The Olympics is where I give my 200%,” she says. “I hope I can fulfill the hope of the nation and get the third medal.”

Sindhu’s training regimen is meticulously planned, focusing on both physical and mental preparation. She is fortunate to have the guidance of legendary Indian badminton player Prakash Padukone as her mentor. “It is my fortune that Prakash sir is my mentor,” she says. “I hope his support can help me win that medal.”

Sindhu’s illustrious career has been adorned with numerous accolades. She has won five BWF World Championship medals, including a gold, and an Olympic silver and bronze. Her Commonwealth Games achievements include gold in 2022, silver in 2018, and bronze in 2014 in the women’s singles event.

As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, Sindhu’s unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of excellence serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts alike. Her journey to the podium is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the unwavering belief in one’s abilities.

India's Olympic Medal Contenders Face Challenges in Paris

India’s Olympic Medal Contenders Face Challenges in Paris

India’s Olympic campaign kicks off on Friday with archers taking the stage, aiming to surpass their record medal haul of seven from Tokyo. Among the medal contenders, Neeraj Chopra faces stiff competition from Jakub Valdlejch and Arshad Nadeem in the javelin throw. The men’s hockey team faces a challenging group stage, with Australia posing a significant threat. PV Sindhu, despite recent struggles, remains a medal hopeful but could face a showdown with reigning gold medalist Chen Yu Fei. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty have a potential semifinal clash with Chinese top seeds in men’s doubles. Nikhat Zareen identifies Turkey’s Buse Naz Cakiroglu as her biggest challenge in the women’s 50kg boxing category. Vinesh Phogat, despite past Olympic disappointments, aims to break the curse and secure a medal in wrestling.

15-Year-Old Tanvi Sharma: India's Rising Badminton Star

15-Year-Old Tanvi Sharma: India’s Rising Badminton Star

Tanvi Sharma, a 15-year-old badminton prodigy from Hoshiarpur, Punjab, is making waves in the Indian badminton scene. Inspired by the legendary P.V. Sindhu, Tanvi has emerged as a rising star, becoming the youngest member of India’s women’s squad for the upcoming Thomas and Uber Cup in Chengdu, China.

Her journey began with her elder sister, Radhika, who played badminton. Their mother, Meera, a former volleyball player, took up badminton coaching to guide her daughters. Tanvi quickly made a mark, winning the U-15 and U-17 national championships before finishing runner-up at the U-19 final in 2022.

In 2022, Tanvi won the silver medal in the Asian U-15 Junior Championships in China and the title in Kotak India International. She ended the year with a runner-up finish at the Senior Nationals in Guwahati.

Tanvi’s most memorable experience came at the Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC) in Malaysia, where she observed Sindhu and the Indian team claim their first-ever gold. “It was a big moment in my life,” she said. “I learnt so much just by observing the seniors, especially Sindhu didi.”

Despite missing out on playing in the BATC due to an injury, Tanvi’s confidence soared after witnessing the team’s triumph. She also saw her roommate, 17-year-old Anmol Kharb, rise to the occasion and play a crucial role in India’s victory.

Tanvi’s injury delayed her plans to embark on the Tour, but she has been selected for the Uber Cup. “I am really excited to be part of the Indian team again,” she said. “It will be a very good exposure for me.”

Tanvi’s goal is to emulate Sindhu’s aggressive style of play. She plans to focus on international series, international challengers, and the world junior championships this year.

Despite the high cost of training, Tanvi’s determination remains unwavering. She plans to move to the National Centre of Excellence in Guwahati in the future to further her development.

Prannoy, Sindhu Advance to Second Round of Badminton Asia Championships

Prannoy, Sindhu Advance to Second Round of Badminton Asia Championships

HS Prannoy and PV Sindhu, two of India’s top badminton players, advanced to the second round of the Badminton Asia Championships in Ningbo, China, on Wednesday. Prannoy, ranked ninth in the world, displayed remarkable resilience in a three-game victory over China’s Lu Guang Zu, while Sindhu, a double Olympic medalist, overcame a tough challenge from Malaysia’s Goh Jin Wei.

Prannoy, who has been battling gut issues this season, faced an uphill battle against Lu, who had won all three of their previous encounters. However, the Indian showed great determination, rallying from a 6-1 deficit in the second game and saving two match points in the third game to secure a 17-21, 23-21, 23-21 victory.

Sindhu, who is seeking to regain her form ahead of the Paris Olympics, also faced a stern test against Goh. The Indian lost the first game but fought back to win the next two, 21-14, 21-19. Sindhu will next face China’s Han Yue, against whom she has a perfect 5-0 record.

However, it was a disappointing day for other Indian shuttlers. Lakshya Sen, who is also bound for the Olympics, lost to top seed Shi Yu Qi of China, while Kidambi Srikanth suffered a defeat against Indonesia’s Anthony Ginting. Priyanshu Rajawat and the doubles pair of MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila also exited the tournament in the first round.

Prannoy’s victory over Lu was particularly significant, as it marked his first win over the Chinese player. The Indian will now face Lin Chun-Yi of Chinese Taipei in the second round.

Sindhu’s win over Goh was also important, as it gave her a much-needed confidence boost. The Indian will be hoping to continue her winning ways against Han Yue and secure a place in the quarterfinals.

Sindhu Advances, Prannoy and Srikanth Falter at All England Championships

Sindhu Advances, Prannoy and Srikanth Falter at All England Championships

PV Sindhu, India’s double Olympic medalist, advanced to the second round of the women’s singles competition at the All England Championships on Tuesday. However, HS Prannoy and Kidambi Srikanth faced setbacks in the opening round of men’s singles.

Sindhu, ranked 11th in the world, dominated the first game against German opponent Li Yvonne Li, winning 21-10. However, Li retired in the second game, allowing Sindhu to progress to the next round. The Indian is likely to face top seed An Se Young of Korea, who has been a formidable opponent, having defeated Sindhu in all six of their previous encounters.

In men’s singles, Prannoy, ranked 8th in the world, squandered an early lead to lose 21-14, 13-21, 13-21 to Su Li Yang of Chinese Taipei. This marked Prannoy’s second consecutive first-round exit after his loss at the French Open last week.

Srikanth, who is aiming to qualify for the Paris Olympics, suffered a disappointing defeat against world No. 1 Viktor Axelsen, losing 9-21, 9-21. This leaves Lakshya Sen and Priyanshu Rajawat as the only Indian contenders in men’s singles.

Aakarshi Kashyap also bowed out in the opening round, losing 16-21, 11-21 to Pai Yu Po of Chinese Taipei. Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand will face Indonesia’s Apriyani Rahayu and Siti Fadia Silva Ramadhanti later in the day.

PV Sindhu Advances to Second Round of All England Championships

PV Sindhu Advances to Second Round of All England Championships

Double Olympic medalist PV Sindhu has advanced to the second round of the women’s singles competition at the prestigious All England Championships. Her German opponent, Yvonne Li, retired after the completion of the first game on Tuesday.

Sindhu, the former world champion and current world No. 11, dominated the first game, winning 21-10. However, Li, ranked 26th in the world, decided to withdraw from the match due to an undisclosed reason.

The 28-year-old from Hyderabad will now face top seed An Se Young of Korea in the second round. An has been a formidable opponent for Sindhu, having defeated her in all six of their previous encounters.

An, who is recovering from a right knee injury, recently secured her second title of the season at the French Open last Sunday.

In the first game against Li, Sindhu and her opponent were initially neck-and-neck, tied at 4-4. However, Sindhu quickly pulled away, establishing an 11-7 lead at the break. She continued to extend her advantage, eventually winning the game when Li’s flick serve landed in the net.

Sindhu’s victory marks a positive start to her campaign at the All England Championships. She will be hoping to overcome her past struggles against An and advance to the later stages of the tournament.

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