BENGALURU – Ayush Shetty carries himself with a quiet focus, even amidst the energy of a bustling training session. At the Centre for Excellence in Bengaluru, the 20-year-old Indian shuttler, currently ranked World No. 25 according to the Badminton World Federation (BWF), was immersed in his routine – a testament to his dedication as he prepares for the Badminton Asia Championships, beginning April 7 in Ningbo, China. But the usual hum of practice was punctuated by a different kind of attention; younger players lingered, seeking a quick word, a shared moment with the rising star. Shetty didn’t deflect the attention, pausing to connect with them before returning to his drills.
Shetty’s ascent in the world of men’s singles badminton has been swift, marked by a relentless work ethic and a willingness to adapt. Whereas already confident in his flat game, a key component of his success, he’s now focused on refining a crucial element: variation in his smashes. This isn’t about abandoning a strength, but about adding another layer to his game, making him less predictable for opponents who are increasingly able to anticipate his power. The pursuit of this variation is central to his preparation for the Asia Championships and the larger challenges ahead, including the prestigious Thomas Cup and Uber Cup team competitions.
The Search for Deception
“Even though I’m confident of my smashes, I understand players now can read my shots a little more than before,” Shetty explained. “So, I’m trying to bring variation in them, especially from the backside.” This isn’t simply about hitting harder; it’s about disguising intent, changing the angle, and manipulating the timing to retain opponents off balance. He’s working to develop a repertoire of smash options, making it harder for rivals to predict where the shuttle will land. This focus on deception is a common theme among elite badminton players, as the margins between success and failure are often determined by subtle shifts in strategy.
Shetty’s recent training sessions with coach Irwansyah have been instrumental in this process. While the arrangement isn’t yet formalized as a long-term partnership, the impact has been noticeable, particularly in strengthening his defensive play and improving his ability to control rallies. “He’s helped me gain confidence, especially in defence and in controlling rallies,” Shetty said. A strong defense is often the foundation for launching effective attacks, and Shetty recognizes the importance of being able to withstand pressure and turn defense into offense.
Learning from the Best: Viktor Axelsen’s Influence
Shetty’s dedication extends beyond the gym and the court. He’s a student of the game, and openly acknowledges the influence of two-time Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen. A training stint with Axelsen in Dubai proved particularly insightful, shifting Shetty’s perspective on long rallies. “I was not good at long rallies, but during the training with Axelsen in Dubai, he actually made me understand how I should use my height and use the long rallies to attack more. And, now I enjoy it,” the 6-foot-5 (approximately 1.96 meters) player shared. Axelsen, currently ranked No. 1 in the world by the BWF, is known for his strategic brilliance and physical endurance, qualities Shetty is actively incorporating into his own game. Viktor Axelsen’s player profile on the BWF website details his impressive career achievements.
Staying in Rhythm, Building Momentum
Shetty’s approach to training is remarkably consistent. He doesn’t believe in extended breaks after tournaments, preferring to maintain a steady rhythm. “I’m usually back in the gym the very next day after a tournament — I don’t really believe in switching off and then trying to switch back on. Staying in that rhythm helps me keep improving,” he explained. This disciplined approach reflects a deep-seated belief in the power of incremental progress. He emphasizes a calm and composed mindset, which he believes is essential for performing under pressure. “I prefer to stay calm and composed, and that gives me a quiet belief that I can receive the job done.”
The Badminton Asia Championships represent a significant opportunity for Shetty to test his progress and build momentum heading into the Thomas and Uber Cups. He is scheduled to depart for the tournament on Saturday, April 6th. He knows his first match will be against a Chinese opponent, a crucial opportunity to gain valuable insights. “I will be playing against China in the Asia Championship. I will get to know more about them, and that will definitely help me for the Thomas Cup,” he said. The Thomas Cup, a biennial international badminton championship contested by men’s teams representing countries from around the world, is a major goal for the Indian team.
The upcoming continental championship isn’t just about individual performance; it’s about contributing to the larger team effort. The Thomas Cup and Uber Cup, scheduled for May 2024 in Chengdu, China, according to the Badminton World Federation’s official website, demand a cohesive and well-prepared squad. Shetty’s performance in Ningbo could play a vital role in shaping India’s strategy and confidence for these team events.
As Ayush Shetty prepares to take the court at the Asia Championships, he embodies the spirit of a modern generation of Indian badminton players – dedicated, adaptable, and driven by a desire to learn from the best. He stands at a pivotal moment, poised to translate promise into breakthrough success. The Mangaluru boy, armed with belief and a refined skillset, is ready to embrace the challenge.
The Badminton Asia Championships begin on April 7th in Ningbo, China. Fans can find the latest schedules, results, and news on the official Badminton World Federation website. Stay tuned for updates on Shetty’s progress and India’s campaign.
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