In a thrilling display of skill and determination, the Indian men's doubles duo Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty advanced to the quarterfinals of the BWF World Championships 2025 in Paris. The ninth-seeded Indian pair overcame a stiff challenge from China's sixth-seeded Liang Wei Keng and Wang Chang, who are also the current Olympic silver medalists, in a hard-fought three-game match.
The match, a roller-coaster of emotions and momentum shifts, lasted for 66 minutes. Satwik and Chirag showcased remarkable grit, especially after losing the first game 19-21. They bounced back with fierce aggression in the second game, winning it 21-15 and forcing a decider. The final game was a nail-biting affair, with the Indian duo initially surging ahead, only to see the Chinese pair stage a late comeback. Ultimately, Satwik and Chirag held their nerve to win the third game 21-17 and secure their place in the quarterfinals.
The victory was particularly significant, considering Liang Wei Keng and Wang Chang's status as Olympic silver medalists and World Championships bronze medalists. This win marks a crucial moment for Satwik and Chirag, who are aiming to extend India's medal streak at the World Championships.
Earlier in the tournament, Satwik and Chirag displayed their attacking prowess in the round of 32 against Liu Kuang Heng and Yang Po Han from Chinese Taipei. After a close first game, which they won 22-20, they dominated the second, securing a 21-13 victory to advance.
Their journey to the quarterfinals hasn't been easy. Despite being India's best medal hope, injuries have plagued their 2025 campaign. This makes their victory over the Olympic silver medalists an even greater achievement.
With this win, Satwik and Chirag have not only kept their medal hopes alive but have also joined PV Sindhu and the mixed doubles pair of Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto in the quarterfinals. Sindhu defeated China's Wang Zhiyi, while Kapila and Crasto stunned Hong Kong's Tang Chun Man and Tse Ying Suet.
Looking ahead, Satwik and Chirag are set to face another tough challenge in the quarterfinals where they will face Malaysian world No.2 Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik.
