Can Prannoy and Srikanth Revive Their Careers at the Syed Modi International 2025?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As the Syed Modi International 2025 kicks off, Indian badminton stars HS Prannoy and Kidambi Srikanth are seeking to turn their fortunes around with the support of their home crowd. Can they harness their past triumphs to reclaim their status in the sport?
Key Takeaways
- HS Prannoy and Kidambi Srikanth are under pressure to perform at home.
- The tournament is a crucial opportunity for redemption.
- Emerging talents are stepping up in the absence of established stars like PV Sindhu.
- Defending champions and seasoned players face tough competition.
- The support of local fans could play a key role in their performances.
Lucknow, Nov 24 (NationPress) Under the intense spotlight, Indian badminton players HS Prannoy and Kidambi Srikanth are counting on the support of their home crowd to spark a late-season resurgence at the Syed Modi International 2025, commencing on Tuesday at the Babu Banarasi Das UP Badminton Academy.
This BWF Super 300 event, named in honor of the 1982 Commonwealth Games champion Syed Modi, arrives at a crucial juncture for two of India's experienced men's singles athletes, both of whom have faced significant challenges throughout 2025.
Prannoy, currently positioned 35th globally, has had a disappointing season. Out of 15 BWF World Tour tournaments this year, the 33-year-old has only reached the second round, suffering defeats in eight of those events at the first hurdle.
Being the highest-ranked Indian in the men's singles category ahead of the draw, Prannoy is set to lead India's medal aspirations, particularly as defending champion Lakshya Sen, who recently clinched victory at the Australian Open, will be absent.
Srikanth, who arrives in Lucknow after experiencing three successive first-round exits, currently ranks 42nd in the world and finds himself in another challenging phase. Nonetheless, his previous achievements offer a glimmer of hope, as he has triumphed at the Syed Modi International twice, in 2015 and 2016.
Other Indian competitors in the men’s singles draw include Kiran George, Priyanshu Rajawat, and Tharun Mannepalli, all eager to shine at home. The absence of two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu, who concluded her season prematurely, paves the way for a new wave of talent in the women's singles category.
The challenge for India in the women’s events will be spearheaded by youthful players like Tanvi Sharma, Anmol Kharb, and Unnati Hooda. Last year's champion, Sindhu, will not defend her title. In the doubles category, Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, bronze medalists from the Commonwealth Games, will lead the charge.
The top-seeded women’s doubles pair, ranked 14th globally, will aim to reclaim their championship despite a disappointing return last week, where they faced an early exit at the Australian Open, marking their first competition since July.
In men’s doubles, Sai Pratheek and Pruthvi Krishnamurthy Roy will lead the second seeds, while Rohan Kapoor and Ruthvika Shivani Gadde will also compete in the mixed doubles as second seeds.
Point of View
The performance of HS Prannoy and Kidambi Srikanth at the Syed Modi International 2025 is not just about personal redemption. It reflects the state of Indian badminton and the potential of our emerging talent. The nation stands with its athletes, hoping for a revival that could inspire future generations.
NationPress
24/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Syed Modi International 2025?
The Syed Modi International 2025 is a pivotal BWF Super 300 event that showcases top badminton talent, named after the celebrated 1982 Commonwealth Games champion, Syed Modi.
Who are the top competitors at this year's tournament?
Key competitors include HS Prannoy and Kidambi Srikanth, along with emerging talents like Kiran George and Priyanshu Rajawat.
What challenges have Prannoy and Srikanth faced recently?
Both players have struggled with early exits in competitions, with Prannoy ranked 35th and Srikanth at 42nd in the world, seeking to regain their form.
Is PV Sindhu participating in this tournament?
No, PV Sindhu has withdrawn from the tournament after ending her season early, allowing space for new talent to emerge.
What can we expect from the doubles teams?
The women's doubles team, led by Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, aims to reclaim their title, while Sai Pratheek and Pruthvi Krishnamurthy Roy head the men's doubles charge.
