Bangkok, (UNI) Top Indian shuttlers are set to showcase their prowess at the Thailand Open 2024 badminton tournament, commencing at the Nimibutr Stadium in Bangkok from Tuesday.
Leading the Indian contingent is HS Prannoy, seeded fifth in the tournament and currently ranked world No. 9 in singles. Prannoy will kick off his campaign against a qualifier, aiming to make a mark in the prestigious tournament.
In a highly anticipated match-up, India’s world No. 34 Kiran George is slated to face off against world No. 17 Weng Hong Yang from the People’s Republic of China. Yang, a member of the recent Thomas Cup-winning Chinese men’s team, promises to offer stiff competition to the Indian shuttler.
However, last year’s men’s singles semifinalist at the Thailand Open, Lakshya Sen, has withdrawn from this year’s edition, altering the dynamics of the tournament.
The men’s doubles category witnesses India’s top seeds, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, eyeing a second Thailand Open title, having emerged victorious in 2019. Despite a recent setback at the All England Open, the duo has had a commendable year, reaching three finals and clinching the French Open in March.
On the women’s front, two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu has opted out of the Thailand Open to focus on preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympics, echoing her decision to withdraw from the Uber Cup earlier. This leaves an opportunity for emerging talents like Malvika Bansod, Ashmita Chaliha, Aakarshi Kashyap, Imad Farooqui Samiya, and Unnati Hooda to shine on the international stage.
In the women’s doubles event, Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa are seeded fourth and will commence their campaign directly from the second round.
The mixed doubles category will see Indian combinations led by SK Karunakaran-Aadya Variath and B Sumeeth Reddy-N Sikki Reddy striving to leave a mark in the tournament.
With an array of talented shuttlers representing India across various categories, the Thailand Open 2024 promises thrilling encounters and fierce competition.
