India’s Ayush Shetty produced a sensational upset at the BWF World Championships, defeating world No. 1 and defending champion Shi Yu Qi of China 21-14, 13-21, 21-19 in the men’s singles opening round on Monday.
It was Shetty’s first victory over Shi in four meetings after losing their previous three encounters, including the Badminton Asia Championship final. The Indian made a flying start, racing to an 11-5 lead before taking the opening game 21-14. Shi responded strongly to win the second game 21-13 and force a decider. Shetty then regained control, taking an 11-5 lead at the interval and moving to 20-15.
Despite Shi saving four match points, Shetty kept his composure to clinch a memorable victory and eliminate the top seed.