In a thrilling Round of 32 clash at the Bank of Ningbo Badminton Asia Championships 2026 in Ningbo, China, 20-year-old Indian shuttler Ayush Shetty delivered a commanding performance to defeat China’s fifth-seeded Li Shi Feng. Shetty cruised to a straight-sets victory with scores of 21-13, 21-16, marking a significant upset in the prestigious continental event.017
Standing at 1.95 meters (6’4”), the Karnataka-born Shetty, currently ranked around 25th in the world, showcased exceptional athleticism, precise shot-making, and court coverage. He dominated the rallies with powerful smashes and consistent defense, leaving the more experienced Li Shi Feng struggling to find his rhythm. Li, a former Asian Games gold medalist and former world No. 3, could not match Shetty’s intensity on the day.
This win highlights Shetty’s rapid rise. The youngster won bronze at the 2023 BWF World Junior Championships and claimed his first senior title at the 2025 US Open Super 300. Trained at the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy in Bengaluru, he has steadily climbed the rankings, establishing himself as India’s second-highest ranked men’s singles player after Lakshya Sen.
The Badminton Asia Championships, running from April 7-12 at the Ningbo Olympic Sports Center, features top Asian talents and serves as key preparation for major events like the Thomas Cup. Shetty’s victory boosts India’s campaign, joining other compatriots like PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen in the spotlight.
With this momentum, Ayush Shetty eyes deeper runs in the tournament. His success signals a promising new generation for Indian badminton, blending power, skill, and fearless play against established stars. Fans eagerly await his next challenge as he continues to make headlines on the international stage