Did Satwik-Chirag Make History at the World Tour Finals?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- First Indian men's doubles pair to reach semi-finals of BWF World Tour Finals.
- Remarkable comeback victory against world No. 2 pair.
- Consistent performance throughout the group stage.
- Able to avenge their Olympic defeat to the same Malaysian team.
- Next match against Indonesian duo for a chance at the title.
Hangzhou, Dec 19 (NationPress) India’s leading men’s doubles duo, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, made remarkable history at the BWF World Tour Finals 2025, becoming the first Indian men’s doubles team to reach the semi-finals of this prestigious season-ending tournament. The World No. 3 pair clinched their spot in the last four with a tenacious 17-21, 21-18, 21-15 comeback victory against world No. 2 and Paris 2024 bronze medalists Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik from Malaysia on Friday.
After dropping the first game, Satwik and Chirag bounced back to dominate the second and third games, finishing at the top of Group B. This victory held special significance as the Indian pair avenged their earlier defeat to the Malaysians at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, marking a full-circle moment in their careers on one of badminton’s grandest stages.
Having built strong momentum during the group stage, they commenced their campaign with a gritty comeback win against China’s Liang Wei Keng and Wang Chang, followed by a commanding performance against Indonesia’s Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri. Their impeccable form ensured they progressed through a group considered the toughest in the tournament.
When facing the seasoned Malaysian duo, Satwik and Chirag displayed extraordinary resilience. After losing the first game, they elevated their game, controlling the mid-court exchanges and maintaining composure in pivotal moments to turn the match around and secure their semi-final spot.
Next, Satwik and Chirag will clash with Indonesia’s Sabar Karyaman Gutama and Muhammad Reza Pahlevi Isfahani in the semi-finals as they aim for their first title at the World Tour Finals.