3 players who can win a medal for India in Badminton at Paris 2024 Olympics
As the Paris Olympics 2024 inch closer, all of India will have eyes set on their shuttlers to deliver. Badminton is one of the few sports where India has a legitimate shot at winning multiple medals, having won medals at the last three editions of the Olympics. Saina Nehwal won the bronze in 2012 and PV Sindhu won silver and bronze in 2016 and 2020, respectively.
India has seven shuttlers in contention at the Paris Olympics, with three in the singles category and two doubles pairs.
Alongside two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu, who will be looking to secure her third medal at the games, is the duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, men’s singles contenders HS Prannoy and Lakshya Sen, and the women’s doubles pair of Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto.
With all the shuttlers breaking unprecedented records and reaching new highs in recent times, each of the seven has a shot at standing on the podium and will all be aiming to return with a medal. Let us take a closer look at the three who stand out the most and have the best chance:
#3 PV Sindhu
Despite a dip in form over the past year, marked by several early exits, Sindhu has shown signs of a comeback recently. She secured a silver at the Malaysia Masters, has had several close defeats in the other tournaments, and seems to be regaining her form just in time for the Paris Games. This resurgence in form can be attributed to her winning mindset, rigorous training, and guidance from her new coach and mentor, Prakash Padukone.
A legend in his own right, Padukone's experience both as a player and coach, and his extensive knowledge of a player’s needs and the game could be instrumental in Sindhu's bid for another Olympic medal. His presence as part of her support team in Paris could also provide her with valuable confidence and moral support giving her the competitive edge she needs for Paris.
Considering these factors and a favorable draw, the 29-year-old Sindhu is a serious medal contender at the Paris Olympics 2024.
#2 HS Prannoy
HS Prannoy's journey to the Paris Olympics is marked by perseverance and a never-say-die attitude. At 32, he is participating in his first Olympics, bringing years of experience and determination to the court. Over the past few years, Prannoy has delivered phenomenal performances, particularly in the Asian Games and the Thomas Cup, showcasing his potential to shine on the biggest stage.
While his recent form has seen some dip, with several first and second-round exits, Prannoy's vast experience and ability to bounce back is a weapon only a few possess. Over the years, he has consistently beaten top players in the international circuit, proving his capability to compete and win at the highest level.
Prannoy's wealth of experience, combined with his ability to beat top players in crucial matches, makes him a formidable contender for a medal.
#1 Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty
In the men's doubles category, India’s Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty have taken the badminton scene by storm in the last few years. They ascended to the top of the world rankings in the latter part of 2023 and are currently ranked as the World No. 3 pair.
Leading up to the Paris Olympics, the duo has been in top form, consistently winning tournaments and defeating some of the best pairs in the world. They have won two titles and reached the finals in four of the five tournaments they have played this year.
Their success is not just a result of their incredible coordination and abilities on the court, but a lot of credit can also be given to the guidance of their coach, Mathias Boe.
Boe, a former Olympic medalist, has brought a ton of experience and strategic insight to their game. His influence has been crucial in their ascent to the top of the world rankings, and his experience as a former Olympic medalist could significantly enhance Satwik and Chirag’s chances for a medal.
Gearing up for their second Olympic Games, the jitters of a debut at the quadrennial Games will no longer play a role. With their recent form, ability to beat top players, and growing confidence, Satwik and Chirag are strong contenders for a medal in Paris. They are poised to make history and break several records on the way.