Satwik-Chirag Crash Out! Indians Stunned In First Round Upset At 2026 All England Open

Last Updated:March 04, 2026, 19:23 IST

The Indian duo went down 23-21, 21-12 in just 42 minutes, bringing an early end to their campaign in Birmingham.

India’s top men’s doubles pair bowed out in the opening round of the 2026 All England Open after a straight-games defeat to Malaysia’s Aaron Tai and Khai Xing Kang in Birmingham.

The world No. 4 duo went down 23-21, 21-12 in just 42 minutes, bringing an early end to their campaign at one of badminton’s most prestigious tournaments.

Satwik and Chirag fought hard in the opening game, matching their opponents shot for shot. The contest remained tight throughout, eventually going down to a tense 20-20 deadlock. However, the Malaysian pair held their nerve in the closing exchanges to edge it 23-21.

That narrow loss appeared to sap all momentum away from the Indians.

The second game proved far more one-sided, with Tai and Kang taking firm control from the outset. The Malaysians dominated in an all-round display to seal the match comfortably at 21-12.

For Satwik and Chirag, who entered the tournament among the favourites, the early exit will come as a significant disappointment.

(more to follow…)

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