Taipei Open 2024: Ayush Shetty, Unnati Hooda Fall Short in Semifinals, End India’s Campaign

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TAIPEI, May 10 — Promising Indian shuttlers Ayush Shetty and Unnati Hooda bowed out in the semifinals of the BWF Taipei Open Super 300, concluding India's campaign at the USD 240,000 event.

Ayush Shetty Falls to Local Star Chou Tien Chen​

Ayush Shetty, the 20-year-old bronze medallist at the 2023 World Junior Championships, put up a spirited fight against world No. 7 Chou Tien Chen before succumbing 18-21, 17-21 in straight games.

Shetty had stunned the tournament with big wins over top contenders such as Lee Chia Hao, Kidambi Srikanth, and Brian Yang. Carrying that momentum, he opened his semifinal with aggression, racing to an 8-4 lead using powerful forehand smashes and clever angles. However, a few unforced errors allowed Chou to claw back and edge ahead 11-10 at the mid-game interval.

The contest remained neck-and-neck till 18-18, when Chou’s experience came into play. A precise body smash followed by a sharp backhand sealed the first game for the Taiwanese veteran.

In the second game, Ayush once again held the edge at 11-10. But Chou’s strategic net play and angled returns put him back in control. Despite Shetty’s efforts to fight back at 14-13, a couple of long returns and net errors tilted the balance. Chou sealed the match with four match points, capitalising on one when Ayush sent a backhand into the net.

Unnati Hooda Outclassed by Top Seed Tomoka Miyazaki​

In the women’s singles, Unnati Hooda, winner of the 2022 Odisha Masters and 2023 Abu Dhabi Masters, faced a tough challenge against Tomoka Miyazaki, the world No. 8 and top seed from Japan.

Hooda started strong, showing smart front-court control and explosive smashes to lead 11-6 at the break in the first game. But Miyazaki bounced back after the change of ends. Hooda’s errors, including a crucial netted return at 18-all, handed the Japanese the edge, who clinched the game with a powerful straight smash.

The second game saw a swift collapse from the Indian, as Miyazaki stormed to a 4-0 lead. Hooda struggled to regain rhythm, missing vital chances including one when Miyazaki slipped to the ground. With mounting unforced errors, Hooda fell further behind and eventually lost the game 11-21.

End of Campaign, Bright Signs for Indian Badminton​

Despite the semifinal exits, both Ayush Shetty and Unnati Hooda showcased their potential on the international stage. With wins against seasoned players and glimpses of top-tier skills, the duo’s performances are positive indicators for Indian badminton’s future.