Shi Yu Qi Claims First Badminton Asia Championships Title, Defeats Ayush Shetty

In a commanding performance, Shi Yu Qi triumphed over Ayush Shetty in the men’s singles final of the Badminton Asia Championships 2026 held in Ningbo, China, winning his first BAC title with a score of 21-8, 21-10. This match marked a significant moment for the reigning world champion and showcased one of the most dominant final displays in recent memory.

At just twenty years old, Ayush Shetty made history as the first Indian finalist in men’s singles at the Asia Championships in 61 years, securing India’s first silver medal in this category. His journey to the finals included notable upsets against prominent players such as Kunlavut Vitidsarn, Jonatan Christie, and Li Shi Feng.

The final began with Shi swiftly establishing dominance, taking a commanding lead and skillfully manipulating the game tempo. After a serious injury earlier this year, Shi appeared back to form, maintaining his advantage to take the first game 21-8.

Ayush initially found his rhythm in the second game, racing to a 7-2 lead, which momentarily unsettled the crowd. However, Shi quickly regained control, forcing Ayush into errors and taking an 11-8 lead at the break. Shi’s tactical drop-drop-smash combinations ultimately overwhelmed Ayush, securing the second game at 21-10.

With this victory, Shi Yu Qi becomes the first male badminton player from China to win the Asia Championships title since Chen Long in 2017, a feat accomplished without dropping a game throughout the tournament. For more details on this match and other updates, visit our live blog at ESPN.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn