Shetty, Hooda Reach Taipei Open Semi-Finals

Ayush Shetty and Unnati Hooda have reached the semi-finals of the Taipei Open 2025 badminton tournament, becoming the only Indians left in the competition. Shetty, ranked world No. 44, defeated world No. 13 Lee Chia-hao, former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth, and Canada’s Brian Yang to secure his semi-final berth. Hooda, ranked 53rd, advanced after a round of 16 win and a victory over Hung Yi-Ting of Chinese Taipei. Their performances highlight the rise of a new generation in Indian badminton, with Shetty's net play and Hooda's consistency earning praise. Tharun Mannepalli was eliminated in the second round by Indonesia’s Mohammad Zaki Ubaidillah. The tournament now features Shetty and Hooda as India's sole hope for titles.