India’s Ayush Shetty shocks world No.1 Shi Yuqi at badminton worlds

In a surprising turn of events at the world badminton championships in New Delhi, rising Indian star Ayush Shetty upset defending champion Shi Yuqi, the world number one, in the men's singles first round. The 21-year-old Shetty, who had made his debut at the prestigious tournament, defeated Shi 14-21, 21-13, 19-21 in just one hour and 13 minutes.

Shi, who had previously won the championship in Paris last year, appeared out of sync early on, with Shetty taking control from the outset. Shetty, standing at 6 feet 5 inches tall, outplayed his veteran opponent with his wide reach and precise smashes, delighting the home crowd. Despite Shi's attempts to mount a late comeback, Shetty secured the win with a decisive smash in the third game.

The Indian player expressed his gratitude towards the enthusiastic supporters, who cheered every one of his points. Meanwhile, women's number one An Se-young from South Korea advanced to the second round after overcoming Bulgaria's Kaloyana Nalbantova in straight sets.