The 20-year-old has become a budding star in the tournament, racking up impressive results against the best players in the world. Now, just one win away from him would clinch a landmark title that would mark a defining moment in his young career and a major milestone for Indian badminton.
Semi-final heroics: Shetty beats world no.
Shetty put in a stellar performance in the semi-finals, defeating reigning world No. 1 Kunlavut Vittisane in a gripping three-game set. After a one-sided game in the first game, the Indians showed resilience and mature tactics in counterattack, turning the game around with aggressive shooting and improved control in the attack.
Shi Yuqi reaches the final
In comparison, Shi Yuqi’s process of reaching the finals was much simpler. The Chinese star showed dominance in the semi-finals, winning three consecutive games to gain authority. His control of the faceoff, sharp attack at the net and ability to dictate the tempo ensured that he rarely allowed his opponents to gain a foothold in the game.
On Saturday, 20-year-old Ayush defeated Kunwarut 10-21, 21-19, 21-17 in the semi-finals of the Asian Badminton Championships, while world number two Shi defeated Chinese Taipei’s Chou Tien-chen 21-9, 21-13.
Where and when to watch live
Date: Sunday, April 12, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM (US Standard Time)
Live broadcast: available to watch on Badminton Asia’s official Facebook and YouTube channels
Telecast: No live coverage in India
China’s Shi Yuqi led India’s Ayush Shetty 2-0. The two badminton players are scheduled to meet for the third time today. While Shi Yuqi had won both of their previous meetings, their last meeting at the Malaysian Open in January was a tight three-game slugfest that suggested Shetty was closing the gap.
Head-to-head confrontations and challenges
Shi Yuqi currently leads the head-to-head 2-0, but their most recent meeting at the Malaysia Open earlier this year was a tight three-game clash. That game showed that Shetty is steadily closing the gap on one of the best players in the world.
Shetty will also draw inspiration from fellow Indian Lakshya Sen, who defeated Shi Yuqi at last month’s All England Championship, a result that proved the Chinese star can be beaten.
