"This is just the start" - Chirag Shetty's father optimistic about his son's chances after winning start to Paris Olympics 2024 campaign
Chirag Shetty's father Chandrasekhar Shetty expressed his happiness following his son’s win in the first round of Group C match in Paris Olympics 2024 on Saturday (July 27). With his men's doubles partner Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag beat the French pair of Ronan Labar and Lucas Corvee 21-17, 21-14 in Group C to start the tournament on a good note.
After the match, Chirag Shetty's father Chandrasekhar Shetty spoke to a media outlet. While Chandrasekhar was happy about their win, he claimed the moment for celebration would be only after winning a medal and felt it was just the start of good things to follow.
“I am very happy just like the entire country. When they win a medal for the country we will celebrate. This is just the start,” said Chandrasekhar, as quoted by ANI.
It turned out to be a good challenge for the World No. 3 pair as the hosts put up a fight. The French pair did not allow the Indian duo to settle to their strengths. They paced the game slowly and continued the strategy for the most part. Both teams tried to tire their opponents out with long-range shots. The Indian pair showed a better adaptability on the court.
Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy to face Mark Lamsfuss and Marvin Seidel of Germany next
Despite some unforced errors, Satwiksiraj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty emerged victorious in a battle that lasted for about 46 minutes. They will be up against Mark Lamsfuss and Marvin Seidel of Germany in their second match of Group C. A win would further cement their strong position in the group.
Apart from the star pair, three other Indian shuttlers were in action on Day 2. It was a good victory for Lakshya Sen in the men's singles category. The youngster overcame the challenge of Kevin Cordon of Guatemala 21-8, 22-20.
On the other hand, the women's doubles pair of Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto went down to the eighth-ranked pair of Kim So and Kong Hee. A hard-fought first game went in vain for the Indian pair who eventually succumbed to a 21-18, 21-10 defeat.