Singapore, May 29 (UNI) In an exhilarating Round of 16 encounter at the KFF Singapore Badminton Open 2025, Indian shuttlers Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty displayed remarkable resilience and tactical brilliance to overcome Indonesia’s Sabar Karyaman Gutama and Moh Reza Pahlevi Isfahani in a fiercely contested three-game thriller.
Played on Court 2, the match extended for 1 hour and 14 minutes, with the Indian duo emerging victorious by a slender margin, 19-21, 21-16, 21-19.
The Indonesians took an assertive approach in the opening game, launching aggressive attacks that placed Rankireddy and Shetty on the defensive. Despite a spirited Indian comeback, the Indonesians held their nerve to claim the first game 21-19.
Recalibrating their strategy in the second game, the Indian pair focused on precision, employing controlled attacks and sharper net play. This tactical adjustment paid dividends, allowing them to dominate proceedings and secure the second game 21-16, thus leveling the match.
The decider proved to be a grueling test of stamina and mental fortitude, with both pairs exchanging leads on numerous occasions. Ultimately, the experience and composure of Rankireddy and Shetty during critical moments proved decisive, enabling them to edge past their opponents 21-19 and book their place in the quarterfinals. Over the entire match, the Indians won 61 out of 117 points, capitalizing on key momentum shifts through crucial streaks.
The contest was marked by intense rallies and strategic ingenuity from both sides, reflecting their high calibre and determination. Rankireddy and Shetty’s triumph is a testament to their resilience and tactical acumen, especially noteworthy following their recent return to competitive action after a brief hiatus.
Their performance earned widespread praise from fans and analysts, who noted their strong potential to progress deeper into the tournament. Moving forward, the Indian duo will aim to maintain consistency while adapting their game plans to counter the challenges posed by upcoming adversaries.
The KFF Singapore Badminton Open 2025 continues to deliver enthralling badminton, drawing top talent from across the globe as they vie for the coveted title.
