Shetty Claims Landmark US Open Title with Dominant Performance
Ayush Shetty, a towering new talent in Indian badminton, has claimed the most significant title of his young career, winning the US Open with a commanding performance. The 20-year-old, who now stands as India’s No. 2 men’s singles player, defeated Canada’s energetic Brian Yang in a final that showcased both tactical intelligence and overwhelming attacking power. The 21-18, 21-13 victory in 47 minutes at the Super 300 tournament in Iowa marks a major breakthrough for the promising athlete and a moment of redemption after a previous final loss in Taiwan last year.
Standing at an impressive 6-foot-4, Shetty used his height and reach to great effect, creating an imposing presence on the court. His style provided a stark contrast to Yang, a player known for his relentless, high-paced game and compulsive jump-smashes. Shetty effectively neutralized his opponent’s primary weapons by controlling the flow of the rallies. He masterfully judged the trajectory of the shuttle, consistently luring the Canadian into hitting clears and lobs that drifted just beyond the back line, handing crucial points to the Indian. This strategic patience, combined with a sharp and accurate net game, laid the foundation for his win.
While Yang’s agility kept the rallies brisk, Shetty’s attack was the deciding factor. He unleashed a barrage of powerful shots, most notably a devastating cross-court smash that repeatedly left his opponent scrambling. Even when drawn into close-quarter dribbles at the net, Shetty demonstrated remarkable composure and footwork. A memorable point to seal the first game at 20-18 saw him use a unique reverse "duck walk" to retreat from the net and deliver a winning slap return, showcasing his surprising agility.
The victory was not without its physical toll. Shetty required two medical timeouts to treat a gashed right knee, an injury sustained from his full-length dives to retrieve shots. Yang attempted to exploit this, targeting Shetty’s backhand flank to force him into difficult, twisting movements. For a brief period in the second set, the strategy worked, allowing Yang to narrow the gap to 11-13. However, Shetty quickly adapted, using aggressive body shots to halt the Canadian’s momentum and regain control. He weathered the pressure, proving that his mental fortitude is as formidable as his physical game. This triumph in Iowa is far more than just a winner's check; it signals the arrival of a powerful new contender on the international badminton circuit.
