India's next generation badminton stars Malvika Bansod, Aakarshi Kashyap gear up to make their mark at Korea Open

(Photo: X/DD News)

New Delhi: As the Korea Open 2024 draws near, India’s next generation of badminton stars Malvika Bansod and Aakarshi Kashyap are gearing up to make their mark on the international stage.

From August 27 to September 1, the vibrant city of Seoul will host this prestigious BWF Super 500 tournament, where emerging talents will battle it out against some of the world’s best.

However, the absence of India’s badminton heavyweights adds an unexpected twist to this year’s competition. PV Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medalist and one of the most celebrated players in Indian badminton, has decided to take a well-deserved break after her stint at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Lakshya Sen, another promising talent, is focusing on his health with a physical assessment in Austria, while the ever-reliable HS Prannoy is recovering from health setbacks.

The dynamic men’s doubles duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, known for their electrifying performances on the court, have also opted to sit this one out. Their absence leaves a noticeable void in both the men’s singles and doubles events, where India will have no representation.

In their stead, the spotlight shifts to the rising stars of Indian badminton. Malvika Bansod, currently ranked 43rd in the world, will spearhead India’s challenge in the women’s singles.

Alongside her are the gritty Aakarshi Kashyap, world No. 38, and the tenacious Ashmita Chaliha, ranked 56th globally. Despite a tough outing at the Japan Open in Yokohama last week, where all three players were knocked out in the first round, they remain determined to bounce back in Seoul.

On the women’s doubles front, India’s hopes rest on the shoulders of Rutaparna Panda and Swetaparna Panda, the world No. 45 pair. Although their journey at the Japan Open was cut short with a first-round exit, the Panda sisters will be eager to turn the tide in Korea, aiming to leave a mark with their spirited performance.

As India’s rising stars step onto the courts of Seoul, they carry the hopes of a nation eager to witness the next chapter in the country’s badminton legacy.