'I Really Believe Now': Ayush Shetty Stamps His Authority With BAC 2026 Silver

Last Updated:April 14, 2026, 15:55 IST

Ayush Shetty believes that his silver at BAC 2026 wasn’t just a breakthrough, but also a statement -- one that reaffirmed to himself that he belongs at the top.

It ended in silver, but make no mistake — the 2026 Badminton Asia Championships was a coming-of-age moment for Ayush Shetty.

The 20-year-old bulldozed his way through some of the biggest names in the sport at BAC 2026.  Wins over the likes of Kunlavut Vitidsarn, Jonatan Christie and Li Shi Feng helped him make his way to a historic final — the first by an Indian in over 61 years.

Sure, the final against Shi Yuqi was a reality check, ending in a straight-games defeat. But even in loss, the bigger picture was clear: India has a new contender.

“I Really Believe Now"

For Shetty, the biggest shift wasn’t technical; it was mental.

“I’ve always wanted to be one of the best in the world… but earlier I didn’t believe it as much as I do now. Now I really believe that I want to be the best," Ayush said in a virtual interaction with multiple media outlets.

And that belief showed.

“I think this week I was more aggressive… showing how much I really wanted to win all the matches."

Aggression With a Learning Curve

Ironically, that same aggression needed fine-tuning in the final — as Shi Yuqi outclassed the young Indian with his masterful execution.

“It was a tough loss. I really wanted to win. But it’s a great learning experience," Ayush expounded.

“In the final, Shi Yuqi didn’t give me much chance to attack… I need to be more patient and play longer rallies."

“I became a bit impatient… that’s when the match changed."

If there’s one thing Shetty proved, it’s that he belongs.

“I enjoy playing against top players… it’s fun, and I just try to give my best."

What’s Next?

“The World Championships are the main focus. Then the Asian Games and other big tournaments," Shetty stated.

“I need to be physically stronger if I want to consistently compete with the best."

“I see it as a challenge. I’m enjoying it and looking forward to the year."

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