In a thrilling match at the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou on Thursday, India’s HS Prannoy emerged victorious over Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia with a scoreline of 21-16, 21-23, 23-21. Following this impressive win, the Indian duo of Satwik Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty dominated the Singaporean pair of Joo Jie Nge and Prajogoto Johann, securing their spot in the badminton semifinals with a commanding score of 21-7, 21-9. Prannoy, who is the top-ranked men’s singles player, got off to a strong start by comfortably winning the first set 21-16.
The Indian athlete appeared to be on the path to securing victory in the second game, but Zii Jia staged a remarkable comeback, ultimately pushing the match into a decisive third and final game by clinching the second one with a score of 21-23. HS Prannoy displayed exceptional composure during the ultimate game, ultimately triumphing in a thrilling three-set contest, thus securing a medal for himself. This achievement marks only the second-ever medal for India in men’s singles at the Asian Games, with the previous one being Syed Modi’s bronze in 1980. It’s worth noting that in an earlier match, the Indian men’s team faced defeat against China in the final, settling for a silver medal due to Prannoy’s absence as he was nursing a back injury.
In the meantime, Satwik and Chirag’s powerful backhand drop shots proved to be a formidable challenge for Joo Jie and Johann. The Indian duo, currently ranked third globally, appeared eager to return to their team hotel after securing at least a bronze medal. This achievement marks the second time in 41 years that an Indian men’s doubles pair has secured a medal at the Asian Games, with the previous instance being Leroy D’sa and Pradeep Gandhne in 1982.
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