Satwik-Chirag Downplay ‘Statement Win’, Urge Greater Support for Indian Badminton
Fresh from ending their two-year title drought with a historic Singapore Open triumph, India’s star men’s doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty said they have nothing left to prove and only hope to see greater recognition and support for badminton in the country.
The duo captured the Singapore Open men’s doubles crown on Sunday, defeating Indonesia’s Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri 18-21, 21-17, 21-16 in the final. The victory marked their ninth BWF World Tour title, third Super 750 title, and made them the first Indian men’s doubles pair to win the prestigious tournament.
The title came just weeks after Satwik’s emotional comments on the lack of recognition and support for badminton players despite their consistent success on the international stage. However, Chirag clarified that their recent victory was never about answering critics.
“I think some of our statements were blown out of proportion. What we wanted to say was that sports should be celebrated in every possible way. Winning and losing is part of the journey, and we don’t need to prove anybody a point. We’ve already won on the biggest stages,” Chirag told India Today.
Calling for broader support for Indian sports, Chirag said the pair’s goal has always been to inspire more people to engage with sports rather than seek validation through results.
“We don’t want to prove anything to anyone. I would urge everybody to support and promote sports, enjoy sports, and be a part of it in any way possible. We won this tournament because we wanted to win for our country, which has given us so much. Our message remains the same—recognise sports, support athletes, and encourage more people to play,” he added.
The Singapore Open title was particularly significant for Satwik and Chirag, who have endured injuries and setbacks over the past two seasons. Despite remaining among the world’s leading doubles pairs and making several deep runs in major tournaments, they had been searching for a title since 2023.
The victory also comes after Satwik openly expressed frustration over the lack of support he received following India’s bronze-medal finish at the 2026 Thomas Cup. Reflecting on those comments, the Andhra Pradesh shuttler admitted his emotions got the better of him.
“I do not get support from my government or from anywhere. I felt completely alone at that moment. I was frustrated and spoke my mind. Normally, I am not like that,” Satwik had told India Today.
Now back among the winners, the celebrated Indian pair insist their focus remains unchanged—winning titles for the country, representing India with pride, and helping badminton gain the recognition it deserves.
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