'I would like to set my own benchmark': Ayush Shetty keen to carve his own path at World Championships
New Delhi, Aug 10
Indian badminton youngster Ayush Shetty is determined to approach his World Championships debut on his own terms, refusing to measure himself against the legacy of India's celebrated men's singles players as he prepares to face China's world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi in the opening round of the tournament.
The 21-year-old, who shot into the spotlight with a runner-up finish at the Badminton Asia Championships in Ningbo earlier this year, will have a formidable challenge immediately on his World Championships debut. Shi had defeated Shetty in straight games in the continental final, but the Indian will enter the rematch with greater experience and the backing of a home crowd.
Asked whether the achievements of Indian stars at the World Championships set a benchmark for him, Shetty said he would rather set his own standards than emulate those who came before him.
"I don't see it as a benchmark. I would like to follow my own...set my own benchmark. I'm not focusing on what others have done or given to the game. They are legends of the game. I've been focusing more on myself, keep playing better, keep winning matches. That's how I've seen it. I would not like to, you know, focus...thinking about setting a benchmark for the next generation. I would enjoy the game. Since it's at home, there is pressure definitely, but it's a great opportunity for me to debut at the World Championship in India. I see it as a really special tournament," Shetty replied to an IANS query during a group media interaction on Monday.
Shetty's approach will be tested from the very outset, with the draw handing him arguably the toughest possible assignment. Shi, the defending champion, has not been at his best in recent weeks, offering the Indian an opening to make the contest more competitive than their previous meeting.
Shetty, meanwhile, has continued working on areas of his game that could prove crucial against an opponent of Shi's calibre. His improvements in defence and fitness could prove particularly important if the first-round clash becomes a physically demanding battle.
For the 21-year-old, however, the occasion is as much about embracing the opportunity as it is about dealing with the enormity of the challenge. Playing in front of a home audience at an event India is hosting for the first time in 17 years adds another layer to his maiden World Championships appearance.
"There are some expectations. I won't say people are not thinking that I won't go deep. But my first-round match will be a great challenge against the World No. 1. So I'm expecting great support. I think there will be expectations from me, and I'm really excited. I'm looking forward," Shetty stated.
The spotlight will therefore fall firmly on the young Indian when the championships begin. While his opening opponent brings a world No. 1 ranking and a reigning champion's pedigree, Shetty will have the chance to turn the biggest challenge of his fledgling international career into another defining moment.
— IANS
Reader Comments
It's refreshing to hear a young athlete speak with such clarity. He's not dismissing the legends - he respects them but knows he has to walk his own path. That's maturity beyond his years. The home crowd will definitely rally behind him!
Realistically speaking, beating Shi Yu Qi in the first round is a massive ask. But you know what? If he plays freely without the weight of expectations, he might just surprise us. The Asian Championships final experience will help him. All the best, Ayush! 🙌
I love this attitude! Too many players get crushed by comparison with legends like Srikanth, Lakshya, or Prannoy. Ayush is smart to focus on his own game. Playing at home in India after 17 years is a huge opportunity - let's give him all our support! 🏸🇮🇳
It's encouraging to see the next generation of Indian badminton thinking this way. They need to build their own identity rather than constantly trying to emulate the past greats. This fresh approach might serve him well against the defending champion.
Respect to Ayush for having the courage to say this publicly. Some might see it as arrogance, but I see it as confidence. However, I do wish he'd acknowledged his seniors a bit more - they built the stage for him. Anyway, hope he performs well!
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