India opened their BWF World Championships 2026 campaign on home soil with several encouraging results in New Delhi, led by impressive wins from Ayush Shetty and PV Sindhu. The opening day also produced a comfortable victory for the Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand partnership in women’s doubles. With the tournament running from August 17 to 23 at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, India’s leading singles players made winning starts while the doubles challenge gathered early momentum.
Ayush Shetty Stuns Defending Champion Shi Yu Qi
Ayush Shetty delivered the biggest Indian result of BWF World Championships Day 1, overcoming defending champion and world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi in three games. The Indian badminton star prevailed 21-14, 13-21, 21-19, producing a composed finish against one of the strongest contenders.
The victory is particularly significant for Shetty, who enters his maiden World Championships after a breakthrough season that included a silver medal at the 2026 Badminton Asia Championships. The 21-year-old now moves into the Round of 32 with considerable momentum.
PV Sindhu Makes Winning Start To World Championships
Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu also negotiated her opening assignment successfully. The former world champion defeated Ireland’s Sophia Noble 21-7, 21-11, controlling the contest from the outset.
Sindhu arrived in New Delhi with renewed confidence after winning the Japan Open Super 750 in July, her first title at that level. She is chasing another deep run at the World Championships, where she has previously collected five medals.
Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand Cruise Into Round of 32
India’s women’s doubles campaign also began on a positive note. Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, ranked 39th in the world, defeated Spain’s Paula Lopez and Lucia Rodriguez 21-9, 21-13 in the Round of 64.
The Indian pair established control early and closed out the match in straight games. Their reward is a BWF World Championships Round of 32 meeting with American duo Lauren Lam and Allison Lee.
With Shetty, Sindhu and the women’s doubles pair all advancing, India have made a strong opening statement on home courts. All the players will look to continue the winning momentum and ensure podium finishes.
