Team India delivered a commanding performance in the opening rounds of the Deaflympics 2025 badminton competition, winning every singles match across men’s and women’s events on a highly successful day.
With clinical execution, discipline under pressure and a clear focus on advancing deep into the tournament, Indian shuttlers set the tone early in their respective group-stage campaigns.
The day began with the men’s singles Group K encounter, where Piyush opened India’s account in style. Facing Felipe Cardowo of Brazil, Piyush settled quickly into his rhythm, controlling the rallies with precise placement and a high tempo. After taking the first game 21–13, he raised the pressure even further in the second, sealing the match 21–7. It was a confident win that underlined his sharpness and readiness for tougher contests ahead. Cardowo struggled to match Piyush’s consistency and offensive variations, giving India the perfect start.
In women’s singles, Gauranshi Sharma followed up with another dominant performance in Group F. Against Turkey’s Elif Sahra Demirel, Gauranshi was in control throughout, ensuring there were no openings for her opponent to settle. Her movement was crisp, her net play steady, and she maintained the lead in both games, finishing with identical scorelines of 21–12, 21–12. The straight-games victory not only secured valuable points but also showcased her growing confidence at the international level.
India’s strong run continued in the men’s singles Group H, where Soumyadeep Chakraborty produced one of the most convincing wins of the day. Facing Turkey’s Sou Kei Wong, Chakraborty dominated from the first rally, overwhelming his opponent with pace and accuracy. He conceded just eight points in the first game and six in the second to wrap up a 21–8, 21–6 victory. His ability to maintain high shuttle speed and apply sustained pressure stood out and immediately marked him as one of the players to watch from the Indian contingent.
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The women’s singles Group G Round 2 match saw Aaditya Yadav maintain India’s unbeaten run. Up against Emma Reymond of France, Aaditya showed complete command, giving her opponent no space to build momentum. With identical 21–8, 21–8 scorelines, she coasted to another straight-games win. Her control at the midcourt, quick interceptions, and steady clearing game kept Reymond constantly on the defensive.
Chakraborty returned to court for his second match of the day in men’s singles Group H Round 2, this time facing Lithuania’s Ignas Reznikas. Unlike his first outing, this clash demanded grit and tactical adjustment. Reznikas stunned the Indian shuttler by taking the opening game 21–14, forcing Chakraborty into problem-solving mode. The Indian responded with composure, tightening his net play and extending rallies to create openings. His recalibrated approach paid off as he took the second game 21–13.
The decider was a test of nerves and endurance, but Chakraborty managed to sustain pressure at crucial moments, winning 21–15 to complete a hard-fought comeback. The victory highlighted not just his skill but also his mental resilience—qualities essential in a long tournament.
In women’s singles Group E, Shreya Singla delivered yet another smooth performance for India, defeating Iran’s Zhila Mobasheri 21–18, 21–11. While the first game was competitive, Shreya showed maturity by pulling ahead in the important final exchanges. In the second game, she increased her control over the rallies, forcing Mobasheri into errors and sealing the contest comfortably. Her mix of attacking pushes and deep clears proved effective in dislodging her opponent’s rhythm.
Closing out the day, Jerlin Jayaratchagan produced a statement win in Group B Round 2. Facing Hong Kong’s Chung Wing Trinity Yeung, Jerlin was ruthless from start to finish. Her aggression at the net and sharp directional changes left Yeung struggling to stay in rallies as Jerlin captured the match 21–6, 21–4. The margin of victory underscored her dominance and reinforced her status as a strong medal contender.
With all seven Indian shuttlers securing victories, Day 1 at the Deaflympics badminton competition stands as a testament to India’s depth and preparation. The players delivered clinical performances some routine, some gritty which collectively position India strongly for the knockout stages.
If this form continues, the Indian contingent could be set for one of its most memorable campaigns on the Deaflympic badminton stage.
